USCIS Updates Adjudication Process for Canadian L-1 Petitions

3/30/2018

Canadian citizens seeking L-1 non-immigrant status under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) through the Blaine, Washington points of entry (POE) now must submit petitions to the USCIS California Service Center for approval before presenting themselves for admission to the US. 

The pilot program is a joint initiative of USCIS and the CBP POE in Blaine, Washington, and it will facilitate the adjudication and admission process of Canadians traveling to the US in L-1 status from April 30, 2018 to October 31, 2018. Canadian citizens who do not wish to take part in the pilot program may use other ports of entry when making L-1 applications.

Previously, Canadian citizens enjoyed quick adjudication of L-1 petitions by presenting them to a CBP NAFTA officer at the POE or pre-clearance airport. The officer would then usually adjudicate the petition on the spot. The new policy is expected to extend processing times significantly.

Please contact your Goel & Anderson attorney if you have any questions.