Unshackled #89: EB-1A Copilot, USCIS updates guidance, & Cognizant lawsuit.


Hi [FORMATTED_FIRST_NAME GOES HERE],

Happy Wednesday. ✨

Soundarya here, founder of unshackled.club. :)

BIG NEWS: In a series of product launches since the merger of Unshackled with Greencard Inc, we're excited to launch the next in line: the EB-1A copilot program.

The EB-1A Copilot program is tailored for individuals who want personalized guidance, easy access to past recipients and lawyers, as well as a clear roadmap to file. Some of the benefits include,

  • In-depth strategy & road mapping call with an attorney
  • Press coverage across 5 relevant outlets
  • 1:1 mentorship from past EB-1A recipients
  • Personalized roadmap with judging / membership/authorship opportunities
  • A dedicated accountability manager (because we all could use one!)
  • Free membership to the Unshackled community.

We're also offering the program at 33% off for the first 30 members who join!

To get started, click the link below, login via LinkedIn, and fill out a questionnaire. Once you do, you'll get a chance to book a free call with us to talk in-depth about your profile :)

Also, we recently crossed 20,500 subscribers! 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

USCIS updates EB-1A visa rules: clearer guidelines for extraordinary ability cases

USCIS has updated its policy guidance for the EB-1 visa, which is meant for individuals with extraordinary abilities. This guidance clarifies the types of evidence required for eligibility, including team awards and past memberships. Notably, a job offer is not required for self-petitioners. You still need to show that your work will benefit the U.S. and have documented national or international acclaim in your field.

Indian H-1B doctors face uncertainty ahead of U.S. elections

As the U.S. prepares for its November 2024 elections, Dr. Satheesh Kathula, President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), has called for reforms in immigration and healthcare. Many Indian H-1B doctors, who've been on visas for over 15 years, face uncertainty and need quicker green card processing. Dr. Kathula stresses their importance in addressing the U.S. healthcare shortage, urging the next administration to prioritize these doctors and increase residency slots to tackle the projected physician deficit.

Cognizant faces punitive damages for bias against non-Indian employees

A U.S. jury found Cognizant Technology Solutions guilty of discriminating against non-Indian workers by favoring South Asians in employment decisions. The verdict follows a 2017 class-action lawsuit filed by three Caucasian employees who claimed they were replaced by "visa-ready" Indian workers. Cognizant, which has been the top H-1B visa employer from 2013 to 2019, plans to appeal the decision, defending its compliance with U.S. laws and asserting that it promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace.

🎁 UNlock: Relevant Resources

[Free webinar] Building a Strong Profile for Talent Visas [ft. Nikin Tharan] Oct 15th, 06:30 PM PST]

We are hosting our second free webinar next week along with Nikin Tharan (EB-1A recipient and cofounder of Greencard Inc). We'll walk through the steps to file an O-1A and EB-1A, answer your questions live, and talk about the EB-1A copilot program that we launched yesterday. Spots are limited! RSVP now and get your spot.

[Article] O-1 Visa Process: Breaking Down the Timeline

The O-1 visa allows individuals with extraordinary abilities in various fields to work in the U.S. There are two types: O-1A for sciences and O-1B for the arts. The application process can take 4-6 months for standard processing or 15 business days with premium processing. Applicants should start preparing at least six months before their intended start date. Approval from USCIS is required, followed by consular processing if the applicant is outside the U.S.

[Guide] Self-sponsoring your way to a green card: understanding EB-1A and EB-2 NIW

Both the EB-1A and EB-2 NIW categories offer self-sponsorship options for obtaining employment-based green cards in the U.S. The EB-1A is for individuals with extraordinary abilities, requiring proof of national or international acclaim. The EB-2 NIW is for those with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities whose work benefits the U.S. national interest. Both allow self-petitioning without employer sponsorship, providing flexibility and avoiding lengthy labor certification. However, applicants must meet high standards of proof and prepare strong documentation.

💫 UNcover: Latest trends

🪄 UNveil: This week’s partner

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👉 Wanna put yourself in front of 20,500+ 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!

Are you an EB-1A aspirant? Join our flagship course taught by an attorney.

We've launched a flagship course consisting of 24 in-depth modules that walk through every step of filing and getting an EB-1A. Don't worry though—there's little legal jargon. This is for you if you want to escape the H-1B lottery or the 100-year green card backlog and secure your future in America based on merit. Simply click here to start the course today. 🚀

Until next week, stay awesome.

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.

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