Week: September 9 - 13, 2024

In this week's newsletter, the Department of State released the October Visa bulletin and created new C-4 and D-3 visa categories, plus the latest in global immigration news.

In this week's episode of the BAL Immigration Report, we discuss the Biden Administration's remaining immigration priorities, including adjustment of status improvements, DACA updates and finalizing the H-1B modernization rule.

Visit BAL.com/news for the latest news and don’t forget to subscribe to the BAL Newsletter.

U.S. news

• United States | October Visa Bulletin

DOS released the October Visa Bulletin. Final Action Date movement includes advancement for India under EB-3 and China under EB-1, EB-2 and more.

• United States | State department creates new C-4 and D-3 visa categories

DOS implemented the new C-4 and D-3 visa classifications for noncitizens traveling to join vessels engaged in foreign trade and lightering activities.

• The BAL Immigration Report | Episode 90

BAL dives into the remaining immigration priorities for the Biden administration ranging from adjustment of status improvements to DACA updates to finalizing the H-1B modernization rule.

Global news

• Ireland | New Employment Permits Act comes into force
• Australia | International student National Planning Level for 2025
• New Zealand | Visa applicants encouraged to apply early
• Finland | Increased income for residence permit applicants
• Finland | Amendments to the Aliens Act now in place
• China | Fingerprint collection exemption extended

BAL expert analysis

• Q&A: Where we stand after the H-1B second lottery