March 8, 2005

H-1B Cap Increased - Increased H-1B Cap of 20,000 Previously For Advanced Degree Holders - Has Now Been Made Available to All H-1B Qualified Aliens

USCIS has announced that it intends to administer the exemption for 20,000 additional H-1Bs this fiscal year 2005 in a manner that makes "all qualified H-1B nonimmigrant aliens...." eligible. Therefore, "eligibility "will not be limited to those individuals holding a master's degree or higher degree from a U.S. institution of higher learning."

We will have guidance within a few days as to when these filings can take place. THEREFORE, THIS INCREASED CAP OF 20,000 IS LIKELY TO BE USED VERY QUICKLY.

Aliens that are filed under this cap are eligible for employment immediately. Therefore, it would be wise to get applications prepared to file now.

Please contact us if you have questions.

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