When survey results are announced, as they were by the USCIS recently, the
numbers are important but they can seem impersonal. I was meeting an immigrant
in the Sacramento area who was especially interested in some of the data.
USCIS Survey
This is the first-ever public policy review by the USCIS and it is an attempt to ensure
that the agency is effectively adhering to its mission. Over 5,550 people responded
to the survey and they included employees using an immigrant or non-immigrant
visa, practitioners of immigration law, advocates, employers of immigrant and non-
immigrant visa holders, law enforcement and others.
The largest percentage was employees using an immigrant or non-immigrant visa
(42.1%) and the next largest group was classified as “others” (21.7%). The next
largest percentage was composed of those who practice immigration law (15.1%).
Then advocates (14.6%), employers (4.4%) and law enforcement (2.2%).
Immigration Issues
Respondents noted which issues were foremost to them when is came to the
USCIS. In other words, what areas did the agency need to address when it came to
shortcomings. There were four that garnered top numbers, one of which was of
special interest to my San Jose client and all four of which I am certainly concerned
with as an immigration lawyer.
The issues that most people thought needed to be addressed first, second and
third related to EB-3 visas for skilled workers and professionals (16.0%); EB-1 and
EB-2 visas for priority workers, professionals, and holders of advanced degrees
(15.2%); adjustment of status (14.7%) and H-1B visas for specialty occupations
(14.4%). The cumulative percentage of those four categories totaled 60.4%.
Important Issues
These are clearly the most important issues facing the USCIS and it was adjustment
of status (the green card application process), which was seen as needing to be
addressed by 14.7% of respondents.
By the way, as far as what issue should be addressed first by the USCIS, adjustment
of status statistically tied for first with EB-3 visas with each getting 19.2%.
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