Allen E. Kaye, Of Counsel at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP and Past President of AILA, discusses recent developments in U.S. immigration in today’s edition of LIVE with PPID.
Increase in USCIS Fees:
USCIS is proposing to increase its fees by an average of 21%. The most important fee increase you should be aware of is the potential fee increase for naturalization. The N-400 application fee, which has been $640, will be increasing to $1,170. If you want to file for naturalization, we highly recommend doing it quickly before the fee goes up.
Re-opening of USCIS New York District Offices:
The New York immigration district offices in Brooklyn, New York City, Queens, and Long Island will reopen on June 15, 2020. But, the offices won’t be opening up for everything.
In Phase 1, they will only be addressing naturalization ceremonies. Here is what to expect:
- No guests will be allowed with you.
- There will be a limit of 10 people in the room.
- You must wear a face mask.
- They may ask you if you are feeling ill.
- Individuals are encouraged to bring a blue or black ink pen.
In Phase 2 of the reopening, they will be calling people to come in for naturalization interviews. You will receive a notice to come in for your interview. The same expectations listed above apply, and, if you need a translator, they will provide one for you.
In Phase 3, they will ask you to come to an application support center for fingerprinting. We expect this phase to begin in July 2020.
About 20% of the immigration personnel in New York will be working in the building, and 80% will be working at home remotely. Just as USCIS plans on reopening their offices slowly and safely, so too is our law firm Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco LLP. We will reopen – slowly and safely.
If you have immigration questions or need legal assistance from our U.S. immigration lawyers, please call 800-223-2814.
