April 11, 2008

Changes in Procedures for Reentry Permits

On March 5, 2008, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) new biometric requirements went into effect for I-131, Applications for Reentry Permits. The USCIS reminded the public that all Reentry Permit applicants should be physically present in the United States when they file for a reentry permit. It also stated that they will capture the biometrics of all I-131 applicants on a going forward basis. The USCIS stated that a short grace period is now in place for applications that are submitted without the new $80 biometrics fee. During this grace period, a billing notice will be sent to the applicant stating that the biometrics fee must be paid in order for the Agency to continue processing of the I-131 application. I-131 applicants are encouraged to contact their GT attorneys for further information.