USCIS Announces Revised Form I-129, Set for Release on January 17
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced the upcoming release of a revised Form I-129, Petition for a Non-immigrant Worker, scheduled for January 17, 2025. This update aligns with recent modernization rules affecting nonimmigrant worker programs, notably the H-1B and H-2 categories.
Key Changes and Implementation
The revised Form I-129 is designed to reflect the provisions of the final rules for H-1B and H-2 modernization. These rules introduce significant changes aimed at streamlining processes and enhancing program integrity. There will be no grace period for transitioning to the new form. Effective January 17, 2025, USCIS will reject any Form I-129 petitions submitted using the previous edition dated April 1, 2024.
Availability of Preview Version
USCIS has provided a preview version of the revised Form I-129 and its accompanying instructions to facilitate a smooth transition. Stakeholders are advised not to file the new edition before January 17, 2025, as it will only be accepted for petitions received on or after that date.
Implications for Employers and Petitioners
Employers and petitioners should be aware of the following critical points:
- Submission Deadlines: The April 1, 2024, edition of Form I-129 will be accepted only if received before January 17, 2025. Submissions using this edition on or after January 17 will be rejected. Only the January 17, 2025, edition will be accepted from that date forward.
- Alignment with Modernization Rules: The updated form incorporates changes from the H-1B and H-2 modernization rules, which aim to improve program efficiency and integrity. Employers should familiarize themselves with these changes to ensure compliance.
Looking Ahead – USCIS Announces Revised Form I-129, Set for Release on January 17
The release of the revised Form I-129 represents a significant development in processing non-immigrant worker petitions. Employers and petitioners are encouraged to review the changes thoroughly and prepare for the January 17, 2025, implementation date to ensure a seamless transition and continued compliance with USCIS requirements.
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