USCIS announced last week that it was resuming premium processing as of June 1, 2020. However, USCIS stated that it would phase in the ability to file premium processing on cases in order to ensure that the office was not inundated with new premium processing cases before it was fully up and running again. To that end, USCIS announced the following schedule for getting Premium Processing back up and running:
June 1: Premium Processing for all I-140s will begin
June 8: All non-H-1B I-129 application filed prior to June 8th that are eligible for premium processing can be upgraded as well as cap-exempt H-1Bs filed prior to June 8th.
June 15: All statutorily cap-exempt application filed on or after June 8th
June 22: All I-129 and I-140s eligible for premium processing (i.e. normal premium processing resumes)
So, as of today, I-140s can be upgraded to premium processing (or I-140s just being filed can be filed as premium processing). Please do remember that not all I-140s are eligible for premium processing. Specifically those filed as a National Interest Waiver, or as an Intra-Company transferee are NOT eligible for premium processing.
In terms of I-129 application, there are more exceptions there as well. If you are unsure if your application is eligible for premium or if you require assistance in upgrading your application, please do not hesitation on contactingour office.
Please remember, as always, this blog does not offer legal advice. If you need legal advice, consult with a lawyer instead of a blog. Thank you.
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