United States To Speed up Visa Approval for Nigerian Graduates with Employment Offers

To strengthen the US economy and retain top talent, the Biden administration has introduced measures to fast-track employment-based non-immigrant visas for recent US college graduates who have secured job offers.

This initiative aims to simplify immigration procedures and attract skilled workers to the United States.

On 18th July, the State Department will release new guidelines for consular officers regarding recommending the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to approve waivers for ineligibility.

These waivers are essential for speeding up the visa application process while maintaining strict screening and security measures.

During the recent election season, the administration announced plans to prioritize international students who have graduated from US colleges and have job offers, ensuring faster visa issuance for those meeting the criteria.

Non-immigrant visas based on employment, such as the commonly used H-1B visa, allow foreign nationals to work temporarily in the US. The visa process typically begins with the employer submitting a petition for the prospective employee.

Applicants initially rejected for visas are usually informed of the reasons by the consular officer. Some of these applicants may be eligible for a waiver, providing them with another opportunity to obtain their visa. The DHS and the US Customs and Border Protection’s Admissibility Review Office handle these waiver requests.

Before applying for an H-1B or other temporary worker visa, employers must first receive approval for a Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker (Form I-129) from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Upon approval of this petition, the potential employee can proceed with their visa application, which involves completing the Online Non-immigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) and scheduling an interview at a US embassy or consulate.

In fiscal year 2023, USCIS and the State Department issued over 192,000 employment-based immigrant visas, ensuring that no visas remained unused for the second consecutive year.