Hi [FORMATTED_FIRST_NAME GOES HERE],
Happy Wednesday. ✨
Soundarya here, founder of unshackled.club. :)
I'm sending this to you from London! I just landed here a few days ago through the Global Talent Visa that let me stay here for up to 5 years (even without a job offer). It's been overwhelming to say the least -- and takes me back by 7 years when I first entered America :)
Also, exciting update on EB-1A copilot: We're less than 2 weeks away from launching a "Copilot Program" for EB-1A aspirants. While the Unshackled community is meant for those who want to do it themselves with the resources we have, the copilot program is for those who need 1:1 personalized support in building & filing their case. If that sounds like you, click the button below to join our waitlist & get a discount on the program.
Now, onto the newsletter.
You're receiving this email as part of the Unshackled weekly newsletter. Immigration is a complex world. So every Wednesday, I simplify that by sharing breaking news, free webinar invites, & latest trends. If you find value in reading it, forward this to a lucky friend. If this was forwarded to you, get your own here! Read all the past editions here. 💃 |
This week's TL;DR
📌 UNfold: Breaking news
On September 4, 2024, a Texas District Court extended the stay on USCIS’s "Keeping Families Together" parole-in-place (PIP) applications until September 23. The U.S. Department of State announced two new visa classifications (C-4 and D-3) for individuals transiting to vessels engaged in lightering activities, allowing stays up to 180 days. CBP issued updated guidelines on handling detained individuals' personal property at CBP facilities.
October 2024 visa bulletin: no change for Indians, but big movement in EB-3
The October 2024 Visa Bulletin is here. Sadly, there's little change for Indian nationals, with the only change being a forward movement under EB-3 by eight days to Nov 1st, 2012. But good news for rest of the world: EB-3 Worldwide jumps forward nearly two years to November 15, 2022, while EB-3 China retrogresses five months to April 1, 2020.
Kamala Harris could streamline U.S. immigration and enhance opportunities for skilled workers
If Kamala Harris becomes President in 2025, her administration could introduce more inclusive immigration reforms. These reforms might focus on streamlining visa processes, prioritizing family reunification, expanding skilled worker support, and protecting immigrant rights. International students may benefit from an easier visa process, better pathways to work visas, and increased support for STEM graduates. Harris is expected to create a more welcoming environment for immigrants.
🎁 UNlock: Relevant Resources
If you're an EB-1A aspirant, this is for you. The submission deadline for the MAHGU International Conference on Data Science and AI has been extended. The conference will take place on September 29-30, 2024, in virtual/online mode offering a fantastic opportunity to present your research, get published, and network with industry leaders. The fee is $365 (₹30,500) and includes publication and presentation certificates. For more details, email editor-in-chief@hgu.ac.in or hit reply and let us know and we'll connect you with the editor! (Our partner professor can help you with topic selection and putting together your presentation and paper.)
[Free Webinar] AMA with former consulate visa officers [Sept 25th, 6:30 PST]
Come join a free webinar with former consulate officers. In this session, Dean and Düden will focus on the B1/B2 visa process for the parents and families of H1B, O1, and EB visa holders. They will cover the specific requirements and strategies for successfully obtaining a B1/B2 visa, emphasizing the importance of demonstrating strong ties to the home country and the purpose of the visit. Don't miss out!
[Article] Q&A: Where we stand after the H-1B second lottery
After the second H-1B lottery for FY 2025, USCIS raised the overall selection rate to 28.7%. Selected applicants now have until November 7, 2024, to file H-1B petitions. Beneficiaries can only proceed with an employer who registered them, and changing circumstances, such as employment status, may affect filings. A third lottery is unlikely, and unselected applicants are advised to explore alternative visa options.
💫 UNcover: Latest trends
🪄 UNveil: This week’s partner
Wanna send money from the US to India with zero fees? Enter Crobo, a startup founded by Indians, for Indians. Okay, there's tons of services that let you send money. Why Crobo? Well, for starters, they have the best exchange rate in the whole industry (we find the rates insane tbh). Add to that , they have no hidden costs, just fast, free transfers every time -- guaranteed. As a special offer, you also get a $25 Amazon gift card when you register using the referral code “UNSHACKLED.” Click here to get started, and make sure to use the code UNSHACKLED when you sign up!
👉 Wanna put yourself in front of 17,500+ high-skilled immigrants? Just hit reply to start a conversation.
⚖️ Finally, looking to consult with a lawyer?
Finding a trusted, vetted lawyer is hard. We've done the hard work by curating a list of 5 top attorneys we recommend consulting with. Whether you're looking for an EB-1A profile evaluation or to set up your business as a student, this is for you. Book a consultation today!
Until next week, stay superb.
Yours truly,
Soundarya 💚
💡 None of the information shared in this newsletter is meant to be legal advice. If you're looking for legal advice, speak to a lawyer, or hit reply and let me know so I can connect you with one.