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Consular Visa Processes
Implications of the Infosys settlement for B-1 visas

Implications of the Infosys settlement for B-1 visas

What can employers learn from Infosys’ recent settlement with federal prosecutors? Ultimately, the more conservatively one follows the immigration law, the more limited one’s interest may be. The government alleged that Infosys misused B-1 visitor visas – inexpensive, for short term stays, and for a narrowly-defined range of commercial activities – to bring foreign workers to the United States to perform skilled labor, for long periods of time, that should have required H-1B visas. It alleged that Infosys submitted false statements to deceive U.S. consular officials into granting B-1 visas to workers, and Customs and Border Protection officers into granting them entry to the United States. This included letters stating the purpose of travel as “meetings” when the true purpose was activities not authorized under a B-1 visa. The government also alleged that Infosys directed the workers themselves to take part in the deception. Infosys did not admit to the allegations of fraud and misfeasance, but agreed to a fine of $34 million.

U.S. Embassy in India announces new visa processing system

U.S. Embassy in India announces new visa processing system

News Release from Jewell & Associates, PC – September 17, 2012 The U.S. Embassy in India is implementing a new visa processing system throughout the country. It will standardize procedures and simplify fee payment and appointment scheduling through a new website,...

State Department notice on visa delays at U.S. Consulates abroad

State Department notice on visa delays at U.S. Consulates abroad

News Release from Jewell & AssociatesThe State Department recently posted a notice on its web site, warning applicants for nonimmigrant visas at U.S. consulates abroad to expect delays of six to eight weeks in the processing of their visa applications due to...