Immigration Policy Updates

Posted by Welcoming Center for New Pennsylvanians on March 2, 2015

[From the Welcoming Center for New Pennsylvanians]

Did You Know…?

3 Surprising Facts about the President’s November Immigration Announcement

THESE NEW FEATURES WILL CHANGE THE IMMIGRATION SYSTEM

1)  PAY FOR CITIZENSHIP APPLICATIONS BY CREDIT CARD

The fee to apply for naturalization is $680.

Previously, applicants for US citizenship were required to pay by check or money order.

Starting in 2015, they’ll be able to do so by credit card.

Read the Memo
http://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/14_1120_memo_naturalization.pdf
2) EXPAND POST-GRADUATION WORK PERMITS

International students holding an F-1 visa may be able to get a longer-term work permit after graduating with a STEM degree.

Known as Optional Practical Training, or OPT, the permit allows students to demonstrate their value to an American employer.

Read the Memo
(scroll to Part B)
http://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/14_1120_memo_business_actions.pdf

 

3) PROMOTE IMMIGRANT INTEGRATION

Traditionally, the US has practiced a “hands-off” model of integrating immigrant newcomers.

Now, an inter-agency task force will bring together federal cabinet departments to improve the way immigrants are incorporated into American society.

Read the Memo
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/11/21/presidential-memorandum-creating-welcoming-communities-and-fully-integra

STAY TUNED FOR UPDATES

Do you have a question about President Obama’s newly announced policies? Contact us at info@welcomingcenter.org and your question may be included in one of our future bulletins!