Start Preparing for your New H1-B Worker NOW!

The H-1B cap is approaching fast, and early planning and processing is recommended!

The filing period for new H-1B visa petitions to be counted against the annual H-1B quota (the “H-1B cap”) for FY (“Fiscal Year”) 2016 begins on April 1, 2015. To ensure timely receipt, and to have the best chance of your case being accepted under the cap, petitions must be submitted the first week of April 2015 for a visa that will begin on October 2015.

The annual limit for new H-1Bs is 65,000 , with an additional 20,000 visas available to H-1B applicants who possess a Master’s or higher degree from a U.S. academic institution. An applicant qualifies for an H-1B under the additional 20,000 allotment if he/she has completed all requirements for the advanced degree at the time the petition is filed.

In 2014, the annual FY-2015 limit for new H-1Bs was reached immediately, with USCIS receiving over 172,500 applications during the first week of filing. We anticipate that the FY-2016 cap may be reached at the same pace and increased rate of filings. Consequently, it is important that employers plan and process their FY 2016 H-1B petitions early. 

What is an H-1B Visa?

The H-1B is an employer-sponsored nonimmigrant visa classification which allows foreign individuals to work for up to six (6) years in a specialty occupation. “Employer-sponsored” means that the employer must apply for the H-1B on behalf of the prospective H-1B employee through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).  “Specialty occupation” means a position that requires specialized knowledge and skills, and at least a related bachelor’s degree in that specialty. The H-1B also requires that the H-1B employer pay the H-1B employee the same or higher wage than is paid to workers in similar occupations in the geographical area of the proposed employment.

Please contact our if you have any questions pertaining to the FY-2016 H-1B petition filing procedures or would like to begin the process.

CBP Launches Border Wait Time App

According to their government website, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently launched the Border Wait Time app making it easier for travelers to plan their trip across the border. The app provides estimated wait times and open lane status at land ports of entry allowing travelers to make an informed decision of where and when to cross the border. Wait times for pedestrian and passenger and commercial vehicle crossings are broken down by lane type (standard, SENTRI, NEXUS, FAST, Ready Lane, etc.). Travelers can download the app for free from Apple’s App Store and Google Play.

“CBP continues to deploy technology that enhances the travel experience at all of our ports of entry,” said Commissioner R. Gil Kerlikowske. “The launch of this app will provide travelers crossing the land border with more information when and where they need it.”

The app is a one-stop shop for cross border travel. Travelers can locate the three ports of entry closest to their location and then map the best route to the crossing of their choice. For example, the app allows travelers in the Buffalo, New York area to compare wait times at the Peace Bridge, Rainbow Bridge and Lewiston Queenston Bridge and will then direct them to whichever crossing they chose.

The app was developed by CBP and does not require individuals to register or provide any personal information. CBP does not store or have access to any information regarding travelers using the app.

The Border Wait Time app is just one example of CBP’s effort to create a traveler-friendly processing environment. CBP has deployed Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosks to more than 25 airports, including most recently at preclearance locations in Edmonton, Canada and Aruba. Much like APC, CBP launched Mobile Passport Control, the first authorized app to expedite a traveler’s entry into the United States, at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport this summer. CBP has also enrolled more than three million travelers in trusted traveler programs such as Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI. These programs allow CBP officers to process travelers safely and efficiently while enhancing security and reducing operational costs.

Source: Click here for the original article.

NEW Business Opportunity: German Restaurant

Business purchase opportunity–A client of the law firm has asked us to post the following information about the sale of the Schnitzel Kitchen German Restaurant

Location: 6525 Superior Ave., Unit B, Sarasota, FL, 34231 on the Gulf Coast of Mexico in the Southwestern Region of Florida.

Very successful running Business with maximum occupation of 42 Seats. Ideal Location within a very busy strip mall center.Specializing in German Cuisine with beer and wine. Restaurant has immense potential  for increase in business sales.

The owner was a Chef in Germany for over 25 years and offers to stay in business and train new owner and/or staff.

Very close to the world famous Quartz Sand Beach on the Island of Siesta Key   (just across the Siesta Key Bridge). On Highway 75  easy and fast to all famous  Park attractions  in Florida like Disney World, Sea World,  Cape Canaveral (Kennedy Space Center)  and the famous southern Keys.

Perfect for starting a new Business, adding on to an existing business, as an occupation for retirement, as an investment, or as a basis  for a US Visa Immigration Application.

 Asking: $ 150,000   (Euro € 120.000 according to exchange rate)

For a Virtual Picture Tour, Click Here

Please contact Loyd Robbins,   Harry E. Robbins Assoc., Inc.

3733 Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL, 34239,

Fax: 941-922-3627

Phone: 941-356-9659

Cell: 941-726-9381

Immigrant Investor Profile: A & B Property Services

One of our immigrant investor clients, John Smyth, recently announced his new company website and initiative to expand a property services business.

Mr. Smyth earned a degree in agricultural engineering and participated in a MBA management program. Then, Mr. Smyth co-owned two engineering distribution and services businesses for 14 years in key sectors for food, whisky and power generation. The businesses grew from start-up to earning multi-million dollars in revenue. He plans to use that experience to build growth into his investment in the United States.

He chose to invest in Florida because of the tremendous opportunities present in the area that will allow the business to grow in the property sector.

The company’s mission is to be the most trusted provider of exterior cleaning, maintenance, repair and renovation in Florida.

The business provides a range of service, including:

• Exterior pressure washing
• Roof Wash
• Window Cleaning
• Pool Screen & Lanai Cleaning
• Handyman Services
• Commercial Cleaning
• Exterior Painting
• Driveway Cleaning & Sealing
• Concierge Service for Absentee Owners

Recently, the company launched its Forever Clean Program. This program provides an annual service for a low fixed monthly fee in exchange for a comprehensive cleaning and maintenance program that is specifically designed for each property owner.

A & B Property Services was built on exceeding customer expectations, adding value, and building long-term and trusting business partnerships. Their goal is to develop a one-stop shop approach, where clients will be provided with a dependable turn-key home maintenance solution.

The business provides Property Maintenance to residential and commercial properties in Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, Bradenton, North Port and Venice.

For a free estimate on their Forever Clean Program or for other inquiries, please contact John Smyth at abpropertyservice@icloud.com or 941.488.9200