Right here’s one other version of “Expensive Sophie,” the recommendation column that solutions immigration-related questions on working at expertise firms.
“Your questions are important to the unfold of information that enables individuals all around the world to rise above borders and pursue their desires,” says Sophie Alcorn, a Silicon Valley immigration lawyer. “Whether or not you’re in individuals ops, a founder or in search of a job in Silicon Valley, I might like to reply your questions in my subsequent column.”
TechCrunch+ members obtain entry to weekly “Expensive Sophie” columns; use promo code ALCORN to buy a one- or two-year subscription for 50% off.
Expensive Sophie,
I sponsored my fiancé for a Okay-1 visa final 12 months proper earlier than the pandemic. Sadly, the consulate canceled my fiancé’s visa interview and he hasn’t but been capable of get his visa.
Now that journey restrictions to the US have been lifted, what’s the standing of visa interviews?
— Pining in Pittsburgh
Expensive Pining,
Thanks for reaching out to me along with your query. Whereas theoretically love is aware of no bounds, the U.S immigration system can typically assert in any other case. We’re saddened to listen to that you just and your fiancé have been separated for thus lengthy! We have now many consumers in your scenario, which we not too long ago chatted about on the a centesimal episode of “Immigration Legislation for Tech Startups”. Relaxation assured, we’re starting to see the sunshine on the finish of the tunnel.
As all the time, I like to recommend consulting with an immigration lawyer for particular steerage — each scenario is completely different primarily based on the place you and your fiancé are situated, and immigrants typically say it’s very useful to have an lawyer all through the Okay-1 visa course of to reply questions and information you, in addition to to help with the adjustment of standing course of when you and your fiancé are married.
Picture Credit: Joanna Buniak / Sophie Alcorn (opens in a brand new window)
The excellent news is that beginning in January 2022, all U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Providers (USCIS) personnel might be again in USCIS workplaces, working to get by way of the backlogs and cut back processing occasions that elevated considerably in the course of the pandemic. Overseas, nonetheless, instances and interviews on the State Division will probably proceed to face delays. Many U.S. embassies and consulates remained closed, and people who have reopened have big backlogs to work by way of.