12/17/07

AILA has learned that DOS is in the process of publishing in the Federal Register, probably early the week of 12/10/07, an increase of nonimmigrant visa fees to $131 from $100 and an increase of immigrant visa fees by $20. The increase is to take effect on January 1, 2008. There may be some pre-paid visa fees that are grandfathered, but we must await the Federal Register notice for details. The increase and its suddenness result from the FBI's success in obtaining OMB approval to charge DOS almost $20 per fingerprint for records clearance. Other aspects of the $31 nonimmigrant increase include the costs of systems that have already been in place.

FAIR Named as a Hate Group

12/12/07
The Southern Poverty Law Center announced on 12/11//07 its designation of the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) as a hate group operating in the U.S.

USCIS Releases Statement on Validity of I-551 Cards without Expiration Dates

12/11/07

USCIS released a statement confirming the continuing validity of I-551 “green” cards without an expiration date.

DHS Plans for Additional Fencing Along the Southwest Border Move Forward
12/10/07

CBP and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have contacted landowners along the Southwest Border to conduct engineering tests to determine if the land is suitable for fence building. DHS plans to construct roughly 670 miles of fencing by the end of 2008.