Streamlined Processes in the USA: Exciting News for Prospective Immigrants! 🇺🇸

The USA continues to release beneficial updates that could significantly impact your immigration journey. Let’s dive into the latest changes that make the process more straightforward and accessible for everyone!

1. Simplified Application Materials & Reduced Processing Time

• Form A4 Elimination: The cumbersome Form A4 has been removed, allowing for online submissions which minimizes the need for hard-copy documents.
• Non-English Document Requirements: Only notarized translations are needed for non-English documents—no additional certifications are necessary.
• Single Applicant Documentation: Single applicants are no longer required to submit a marriage certificate but must provide comprehensive details about family members.
• Faster Approval Times: The approval process has been expedited, with a completion time of as little as six months, down from the previous timeframe of 8-12 months.

2. PR Applications for International Students Eased

• International students who have lived in the USA for less than two years but have passed national-level examinations (e.g., SAT, ACT) can directly apply for Permanent Residency (PR).
• University students who do not pass local exams may still apply for PR after graduation through employment pathways.
• Students attending government schools at primary and secondary levels have higher chances of PR approval.

3. Transition to PR for Work Visa Holders (EP/SP Holders)

• Adjusted Salary Criteria: The minimum salary threshold for Employment Pass (EP) holders in the financial sector is set to be SGD 6,200 starting January 2025, while other sectors will have a threshold of SGD 5,600.
• Tighter SP Quotas: The quota for Service Passes (SP) in the services sector is restricted to 10% of the total workforce within a company.
• Financial industry SP holders will see a minimum salary adjustment to SGD 3,800 starting September 2025.

4. Optimized Self-Employment Immigration Pathways

• Applying for an EP now requires a COMPASS score of just 40 points, which considers age, education, salary, and other factors.
• The option for self-employed immigration (investing SGD 1 million) remains available.
• Registering a company in the USA with a capital of SGD 200,000 and holding an EP for two years allows for PR applications.

5. Renewal Policy Adjustments

• Permanent residents (PR) need to renew their re-entry permits (REP) every five years, and lengthy absences may impact their status.
• Proof of local residency, economic contribution, or family ties will be required during the renewal process.

6. Expanded List of Shortage Occupations

This expansion is beneficial for specific industry applicants. The semiconductor sector has now added three occupations: Semiconductor Engineer, Instrumentation Engineer, and Process Engineer, bringing the total number of shortage occupations to 30. Candidates in these fields are likely to secure EP/PR approval more easily.

An Open Invitation to All!

With these favorable conditions, the USA is currently perceived as a golden opportunity for everyone, whether you’re a regular worker, seasoned investor, parent with children, student, or entrepreneur. 🇺🇸 Your journey to a new beginning may be closer than you think!

If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to reach out! #Immigration #GreenCard #Policy #NewImmigrant #USAImmigration #EP #PR #SelfEmployedEP #SP #Visas