U.S. House of Representatives passes Fairness for High Skilled Immigrants Act

The House of Representatives passed HR1044, Fairness for High Skilled Immigrants Act, on July 10, 2019. This bill proposes to change the allocation of immigrant visas both in the family and employment-based categories, which could mean less of a wait for an available immigrant visa number for individuals born in countries from which there is a high volume of immigration to the U.S..  Now, the bill goes to Senate for consideration.  The Senate must approve the legislation by a majority vote in order for the legislation to be presented to the President for his signature or veto.  It is also possible that the Senate will propose changes to the legislation.  If that were to occur, members of both houses will form a conference committee to negotiate the final language of the legislation, which then must be approved by both the House and the Senate, before it is sent to the President.

It is too early to determine whether this legislation will impact existing cases.  We are monitoring the legislation and will provide updates when it is appropriate.  At this time, however, there is only speculation as to how this bill could impact green card processing if passed by both houses and signed by the President.HR