Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 59 / Monday, March 28, 2011 / Notices

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1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 59 / Monday, March 28, 2011 / Notices Emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with NOTICES If you need a copy of the information collection instrument, please visit the Web site at: gov/ We may also be contacted at: USCIS, Regulatory Products Division, Office of the Executive Secretariat, 20 Massachusetts Avenue, NW., Washington, DC , Telephone number Dated: March 23, Stephen Tarragon, Senior Analyst, Regulatory Products Division, Office of the Executive Secretariat, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Department of Homeland Security. [FR Doc Filed ; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Agency Information Collection Activities: Business Transformation Automated Integrated Operating Environment (IOE), New Information Collection; Comment Request ACTION: 60-Day Notice of Information Collection Under Review: Business Transformation Integrated Operating Environment (IOE); OMB Control No NEW. SUMMARY: USCIS is developing an automated Integrated Operating Environment (IOE) to process benefit applications. The IOE will collect information by asking sequential questions using wizard technology. The IOE will allow immigration benefit requests to be filed directly via the internet or e-filed. In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA) this notice provides the general public and Federal agencies with notice that USCIS will be submitting this information collection request to OMB and the public will have an opportunity to review and comment. DATES: Interested persons are invited to submit comments on or before May 27, ADDRESSES: Written comments and/or suggestions regarding the item(s) contained in this notice, especially regarding the estimated public burden and associated response time, should be directed to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), USCIS, Chief, Regulatory Products Division, Office of the Executive Secretariat, 20 Massachusetts Avenue, NW., Washington, DC Comments may also be submitted to DHS via facsimile to or via at rfs.regs@dhs.gov. When submitting comments by , please be sure to add Automated IOE in the subject box. Please do not submit requests for individual case status inquiries to this address. If you are seeking information about the status of your individual case, please check My Case Status online at: egov.uscis.gov/cris/dashboard.do, or call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at If you need a copy of this information collection instrument, please visit the Web site at: or call the Regulatory Products Division at (202) Background: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is transforming its business processes and systems to improve operational efficiency and customer service, and to strengthen the security and integrity of the immigration system. As part of this effort, USCIS may modify its data collection practices to eventually convert all data collections to e-filing in the IOE. The intent of this change is to improve the consistency and timeliness of its immigration benefit adjudications, as well as to support identity management, evaluate benefit eligibility, promote customer service, and manage national security and benefit risk. This change will also serve to bring USCIS into compliance with the Government Paperwork Elimination Act (GPEA), Public Law , tit. XVII, section 1703, 112 Stat. 2681, (Oct. 21, 1998), 44 U.S.C note, and the E Government Act of 2002 (Pub. L , 116 Stat. 2899, 44 U.S.C note). GPEA provides that Federal agencies use electronic forms, electronic filing, and electronic submissions, when possible, to conduct agency business with the public. The E Government Act sought to promote the use of the Internet by Federal Agencies through efforts like USCIS Business Transformation initiative. The IOE will be implemented by USCIS and made available for the public to submit requests over the next few years in increments that USCIS has termed as releases and phases. As each phase is implemented, DHS will announce each request that has been converted to the IOE, if the IOE will be the sole filing option available, or if the option of filing a paper form will remain available for that benefit for all or certain groups that may seek to submit the applicable request. In general, the IOE will follow the immigration lifecycle to first include nonimmigrant benefits, proceeding eventually to applications for naturalization. VerDate Mar<15> :22 Mar 25, 2011 Jkt PO Frm Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\28MRN1.SGM 28MRN1 The first benefit type available in the automated IOE under Release A, Phase 1, will be the Application to Extend/ Change Nonimmigrant Status. Beginning in December 2011, USCIS customers will be able to apply for an extension or change of their nonimmigrant status using the IOE or continue to use the current paper Form I 539 (OMB Control No ). In the future, however, USCIS may allow the current paper Form I 539 to expire, eliminate the option of filing on a paper form, and instead require this benefit application to be filed through the automated IOE. USCIS is very interested in receiving comments concerning mandatory e filing of this benefit and any future benefits that are added to the automated IOE. USCIS also welcomes comments on which groups, individuals, or businesses for which it would be the most appropriate for USCIS to require (or not require) electronic filing of all benefit requests. The supporting statement for this information collection contains a more detailed description of the USCIS Business Transformation initiative and wizard technology. The supporting statement can be viewed at: USCIS is also interested in public comment addressing the following issues: (1) Evaluate whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information will have practical utility; (2) Evaluate the accuracy of the agencies estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used; (3) Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and (4) Minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology, e.g., permitting electronic submission of responses. Overview of This Information Collection (1) Type of Information Collection: New information collection. (2) Title of the Form/Collection: Business Transformation Automated Integrated Operating Environment (IOE). (3) Agency form number, if any, and the applicable component of the Department of Homeland Security

2 Emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with NOTICES Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 59 / Monday, March 28, 2011 / Notices sponsoring the collection: No form number; U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). (4) Affected public who will be asked or required to respond, as well as a brief abstract: Primary: Individuals or households. As part of the Business Transformation initiative, USCIS is developing an automated Integrated Operating Environment (IOE). The IOE will use wizard technology and will allow e-filing. Wizard technology gives USCIS the ability to electronically interact with its customers by guiding them through the application process and assisting them to file complete and accurate benefit requests. (5) An estimate of the total number of respondents and the amount of time estimated for an average respondent to respond: 58,500 responses at an average of 2 hours and 15 minutes per response. (6) An estimate of the total public burden (in hours) associated with the collection: 131,625 annual burden hours. The information collection request contains selected screen shots that demonstrate the look and feel of the automated IOE, and a decision tree to show the sequence of questions that the public will be asked by the wizard and the order in which the questions will be asked. For example, when the user answers the question What is your First Name? then he or she will be prompted with the question: What is your Given Name? If you need to review this information collection instrument, please visit the Web site at: Dated: March 23, Sunday Aigbe, Chief, Regulatory Products Division, Office of the Executive Secretariat, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Department of Homeland Security. [FR Doc Filed ; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service [FWS R9 ES 2011 N067; C3] Information Collection Sent to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for Approval; Endangered and Threatened Wildlife, Experimental Populations AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior. ACTION: Notice; request for comments. SUMMARY: We (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) have sent an Information Collection Request (ICR) to OMB for review and approval. We summarize the ICR below and describe the nature of the collection and the estimated burden and cost. This information collection is scheduled to expire on March 31, We may not conduct or sponsor and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. However, under OMB regulations, we may continue to conduct or sponsor this information collection while it is pending at OMB. DATES: You must submit comments on or before April 27, ADDRESSES: Send your comments and suggestions on this information collection to the Desk Officer for the Department of the Interior at OMB OIRA at (202) (fax) or OIRA_DOCKET@OMB.eop.gov ( ). Please provide a copy of your comments to the Service Information Collection Clearance Officer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MS 2042 PDM, 4401 North Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA (mail), or INFOCOL@fws.gov ( ). Please include in the subject line of your comments. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: To request additional information about this ICR, contact Hope Grey at INFOCOL@fws.gov ( ) or (telephone). You may review the ICR online at Follow the instructions to review Department of the Interior collections under review by OMB. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: OMB Control Number: Title: Endangered and Threatened Wildlife, Experimental Populations, 50 CFR Service Form Number(s): None. Type of Request: Extension of a currently approved collection. Description of Respondents: Individuals and households, private sector, and State/local/Tribal governments. Respondent s Obligation: Voluntary. Frequency of Collection: On occasion. Estimated Annual Number of Respondents: 101. Estimated Annual Number of Responses: 101. Completion Time per Response: 15 minutes. Total Annual Burden Hours: 27. Abstract: Section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA), as amended (16 U.S.C et seq.), authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to establish experimental populations of endangered or threatened species. Because individuals of experimental populations are categorically protected VerDate Mar<15> :14 Mar 25, 2011 Jkt PO Frm Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\28MRN1.SGM 28MRN1 under the ESA, the information we collect is important for monitoring the success of reintroduction efforts and recovery efforts in general. This is a nonform collection. Information collection requirements for experimental populations of endangered and threatened species are in 50 CFR We collect three categories of information: (1) General take or removal. Relates to human-related mortality including unintentional taking incidental to otherwise lawful activities (e.g., highway mortalities); animal husbandry actions authorized to manage the population (e.g., translocation or providing aid to sick, injured, or orphaned individuals); take in defense of human life; take related to defense of property (if authorized); or take in the form of authorized harassment. (2) Depredation-related take. Involves take for management purposes where livestock depredation is documented, and may include authorized harassment or authorized lethal take of experimental animals in the act of attacking livestock. (3) Specimen collection, recovery, or reporting of dead individuals. This information documents incidental or authorized scientific collection. Most of the contacts with the public deal primarily with the reporting of sightings of experimental population animals or the inadvertent discovery of an injured or dead individual. The information that we collect includes: Name, address, and phone number of reporting party. Species involved. Type of incident. Take (quantity). Location and time of the reported incident. Description of the circumstances related to the incident. This information helps us to assess the effectiveness of control activities and to develop better means to reduce problems with livestock for those species where depredation is a problem. Service recovery specialists use the information to determine the success of reintroductions in relation to established recovery plan goals for the threatened and endangered species involved. Comments: On November 3, 2010, we published in the Federal Register (75 FR 67761) a notice of our intent to request that OMB renew approval for this information collection. In that notice, we solicited comments for 60 days, ending on January 3, We received information from two commenters in response to this notice.

3 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Page 1 of 11 CREATE AN IMMIGRATION ACCOUNT You must set up an immigration account to begin the process of creating an electronic benefit request. The immigration account may be established at the same time or within 30 days prior to creating the benefit request. 1. Click Create a new Account 2. Have you read and agree to the Privacy Act Statement? 3. Select an Account Type: Applicant Attorney/Representative 4. Provide your address 5. Re-enter your address 6. Provide your preferred greeting 7. Submit your request 8. Check your for confirmation 9. While in your from USCIS, Click on the link 10. Enter your new password 11. Re-enter your password Select password reset questions & answers Select one of the following three security preferences How would you like to receive Secure PIN (SMS/Text or Voice Message)? Enter your registered address Provide personal identity questions & answers Provide your U.S. Phone Number Enter your secure PIN Enter secure PIN received on your phone Your account is activated. Your account is activated. End of account set up End of account set up End of account set up

4 PART 1 INFORMATION ABOUT YOU 1.a. Do you have a USCIS Account Identifier? Yes No Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services 2.b. Do you have an Alien Registration Number? Yes No 3. Your Full Name Family Name (Last) Given Name (First) Middle Name (If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons, you must submit evidence of the legal name change.) 4. Physical Address Street Number Street Name Apartment Number City or Town State Zip Code Province Postal Code Country Page 2 of Mailing Address (If different from Physical Address) In Care of Name Street Number Street Name or PO Box Apartment Number City or Town State Zip Code Province Postal Code Country 1.b. Account Identifier 2.b. Alien Registration # 6. Date of Birth 7. City or Town of Birth 8. State of Birth 9. Province of Birth 10. Country of Birth (If not in the United States) 11. Gender (Male or Female) 12. Country of Citizenship 13. What is your current immigration Status? (See attached Evidence Chart) 14. What was your immigration status at time of most recent arrival to the United States? 15. Place of most recent arrival into the United States (City or Town) 16. Date of most recent arrival into the United States 17.a. Do you have an I-94/I-94W/I-95 Arrival-Departure Record Number OR an entry stamp in your Passport to establish that you entered under the Visa Waiver Program Electronic System for Travel Authorization? 18. Your Arrival- Departure Record or entry stamp placed in your Passport expires or expired on: (Date) 19. Are you currently a member of the U.S. Military? Yes No 20. Have you used any other names other than the name shown in Number 3? If Yes Other Names Used (Multiple Entries) 23. May USCIS contact you by other means other than the U.S. Postal Service? Yes , Home Phone Work Phone, Mobile Phone, SMS Text Yes 17.b. Arrival- Departure Record Number 24. USCIS must have information from an official governmentissued identity document that belongs to you if you have one. This identity document must contain a photo. Do you have a governmentissued photo identity document? If Yes provide Information from one form of identity document below. If No go to Number 25. Passport (Country) Passport Number Expiration Date Yes Yes Yes Driver s License (State) Driver s License Number Expiration Date Other ID (Issuer) ID Number Expiration Date 25. Explain why you do not have a government-issued photo identity document. Go to Part 2

5 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Page 3 of 11 PART 2 BENEFIT REQUEST TYPE Extension of Stay 1.a. I am applying for an extension of stay in my current status and I am the only applicant. I request that my current status be extended until: (Date) If you are applying to extend your stay or change your nonimmigrant status and your total period of stay will be 1 year or more, you are required to complete and submit Supplemental Biographic Information with this benefit request. Change of Nonimmigrant Status 1.b Members of my family and I are applying for an extensions of stay in our current status and we are all seeking the same benefit. 2.a. I am applying for a change of status and I am the only applicant. 2.b. Members of my family and I are applying to change our status and we are all seeking the same benefit. We request that our current status be extended until: (Date) The new nonimmigrant status I am requesting is: The new nonimmigrant status we are requesting is: The total number of people (including me) in this benefit request is: The total number of people (including me) in this benefit request is: Reinstatement 3.a. I am seeking a reinstatement to student status. 3.b. Members of my family and I are seeking a reinstatement of student/student dependent status. The total number of people (including me) in this benefit request is: If you are an F-1 or M-1 student, you must provide supporting documentation to establish: -Your violation of status was solely due to circumstances beyond your control or that failure to reinstate you would result in extreme hardship; -You are or will be pursuing a full course of study; -You have not been employed without authorization; -You are not currently in removal proceedings; and -You have not been out of status for more than 5 months at the time of filing the request for reinstatement. Go to Part 3 -You must also provide supporting documentation that demonstrates your ability to pay for your studies and support yourself while in the United States.

6 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Page 4 of 11 PART 3 ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION 1. Do you currently have the Form I-94, I-94W or I-95 issued to you in your possession? 2. Are you filling this benefit request based on a Principal Alien's nonimmigrant status? You are required to submit a copy of the front and back, of your original Form I-94, I-94W, or I-95. Yes No If No provide the reason you are unable to provide your original Form I- 94, I-94W, or I-95. Yes No If No go to Part 3, Number 14 If Yes the principal alien is requesting or has acquired nonimmigrant status through: 3.a. A Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, that is being concurrently filed with this benefit request. Information about the Principal Alien 4. Gender 5.a. Family Name 5.b. Given Name 5.c. Middle Name 6.a. Street Number 6.b. Street Name 6.c. Apartment Number 6.d. City or Town 6.e. State 6.f. Zip Code 7. Principal Alien's Date of Birth 8. Principal Alien's Country of Birth 9. Principal Alien's Country of Citizenship 10. Principal Alien's USCIS Account Identifier (if any) 11. Principal Alien's I-94/I-94W/I-95 Arrival-Departure Record Number 12. Principal Alien's A-Number (if any) 3.b. A Form I-129 or Form I-539 that was previously filed with USCIS. 3.c. Inspection and admission into the United States in his or her current nonimmigrant status which is: 3.b.1. Provide USCIS Receipt/Case Number 3.c.1. Provide nonimmigrant status 13. Relationship to the Principal Alien Spouse Step-Child (not married) Biological Child (not married) Adopted Child (not married) Other Dependent Family Member as designated by the U.S. Department of State (Explain) Go to Part 3, Number 14

7 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Page 5 of 11 PART 3 ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION (continued) 14. Are you, or any other person included in this benefit request currently in, requesting a change to, or requesting reinstatement to F or M or J nonimmigrant status? Yes If Yes provide your SEVIS Case Number 17.a. Are you, or any other person included in this benefit request currently an applicant for an immigrant visa? Yes No No 17.b. If Yes name of person included in this benefit request who filed the application for the immigrant visa: Family Name (Last) Given Name (First) Middle Name 15.a. Are you a B-2 visitor applying to extend your stay, or are you applying to change your status to that of an F-1 or M-1 Student? If Yes provide the following information concerning how you will support yourself financially in the United States in your requested status. Complete all that apply: (You must submit documentation that demonstrates you or someone else has the ability to pay for your studies and support you while you are in the United States.) 15.b. Name of person/people who will provide financial support: Family Name (Last) Given Name (First) Middle Name 15.c. Relationship of person/people to the applicant(s) in this case? 15.d. Amount of financial support to be provided per month: 15.e. Scholarship or grant from educational institution in the amount of: 18.a. To your knowledge, are you, or any other person included on this benefit request the beneficiary of any other nonimmigrant or immigrant application or petition? 18.b. If Yes name of the person included in this benefit request who is the beneficiary of another nonimmigrant or immigrant application or petition: Family Name (Last) Given Name (First) Middle Name 16.a. Are you, or any other person included in this benefit request, in a current J1 or J2 nonimmigrant status? Yes No Yes No 16.b. If Yes name of the person included in this benefit request who is in J nonimmigrant status: Family Name (Last) Given Name (First) Middle Name 16.c. Is the person in J nonimmigrant status subject to the 2-year foreign residence requirement? 16.d. If Yes has that person already received a waiver of the 2-year foreign residence requirement from USCIS? 16.e. If Yes provide the USCIS Receipt/Case Number of the approved waiver 19.a. Has Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, ever been filed by you or by any other person included in this benefit request? Yes No Yes No 19.b. If Yes name of the person included in this benefit request who filed the Form I-485: Family Name (Last) Given Name (First) Middle Name 17.c. If Yes provide the USCIS Receipt/Case Number of the immigrant petition that was filed on your behalf (if known): 18.c. If Yes provide the USCIS Receipt/Case Number of the application or petition (if known): 19.c. If Yes provide the USCIS Receipt/Case Number from the Form I-485 filed: Go to Number 20.a.

8 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Page 6 of 11 PART 3 ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION (continued) 20.a Have you, or any other person included in this benefit request EVER been arrested since entering the United States? PROVIDE A COPY OF ALL ARREST RECORDS. 20.b. If arrested, were you, or any other person included in this benefit request, convicted of the offense? PROVIDE A COPY OF ALL CONVICTION AND COURT DISPOSITION RECORDS. 21. Have you, or any person included in this benefit request, EVER been under removal proceedings? If a particular document is unavailable, Yes No you must provide official or certified evidence from the court confirming the Yes No Yes No unavailability of the record. Have you, or any person included in this benefit request EVER ordered, incited, called for, committed, assisted, helped with, or otherwise participated in any of the following: 22.a. Acts involving torture? 23.a. Have you, or any other person included in this benefit request, EVER served in, been a member of, assisted in, or participated in any military unit, paramilitary unit, police unit, self-defense unit, vigilante unit, rebel group, guerrilla group, militia, or insurgent organization? 23.b. Have you, or any other person included in this benefit request, EVER worked in any prison, jail, prison camp, detention facility, labor camp, or any other situation that involved detaining persons? Yes 24. Have you or any person included in this benefit request been employed in the United States since your or his or her last entry into the United States or the date of your or his or her last grant of an extension or change of status? Yes No 22.b. Acts involving genocide? 22.c. Killing any person/people? 22.d. Intentionally and severely injuring any person/people? Yes No 23.c. Have you, or any other person included in this benefit request, EVER been a member of, assisted in, or participated in any group, unit, or organization of any kind in which you or other persons used any type of weapon against any person or threatened to do so? No 25. Have you, or any other person included in this benefit request, remained in the United States past your or his or her authorized period of stay. Yes No 22.e. Engaged in any kind of sexual contact or relations with any person/people who were being forced or threatened? 23.d. Have you, or any other person included in this benefit request, EVER assisted or participated in selling or providing weapons to any person who to your knowledge used them against another person, or in transporting weapons to any person who to your knowledge used them against another person? If Yes You Must Complete Part 8 22.f. Limited or denied any person's ability to exercise their religious beliefs? 23.e. Have you, or any other person included in this benefit request, EVER received any type of military, paramilitary, or weapons training? If you have beneficiaries complete Part 4

9 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Page 7 of 11 PART 4 INFORMATION ABOUT BENEFICIARIES 1.a. Does the beneficiary have a USCIS Account Identifier? Yes 1.b. Account Identifier No 2.a. Does the beneficiary have an Alien Registration Number? Yes 2.b. Alien Registration # No 3. Beneficiary s Full Name Family Name (Last) Given Name (First) Middle Name 4. Beneficiary s Relationship to Applicant or Petitioner Spouse (submit a copy of your marriage certificate) Biological Child (not married) (submit a copy of child s birth certificate) Adopted Child (not married) (submit a copy of child s birth certificate and adoption decree) Step-Child (not married) (submit a copy of child s birth certificate and a copy of your marriage certificate.) Other Dependent Family Member as designated by the U.S. Department of State (Explain) 5. Does this beneficiary currently reside with you? If Yes go to Number 8. Yes No 6. Beneficiary s Physical Address Street Number Street Name Apartment Number City or Town State Zip Code Province Postal Code Country 7. Beneficiary s Mailing Address (If different from Physical Address) In Care of Name Street Number Street Name or PO Box Apartment Number City or Town State Zip Code Province Postal Code Country 8. Beneficiary s Country of Citizenship 9. Beneficiary s Gender (Male or Female) 10. Has the beneficiary used any other names other than the name provided? 13. Beneficiary s Date of Birth 14. Beneficiary s City or Town of Birth 15. Beneficiary s State of Birth 16. Beneficiary s Province of Birth If Yes Other Names Used (Multiple Entries) 17. Beneficiary s Country of Birth (If not in the United States) 18. What is the beneficiary s current immigration status? 19. What was the beneficiary s immigration status at the time of his or her most recent arrival into the United States? 20. Beneficiary s place of most recent arrival into the United States 21. Beneficiary s date of most recent arrival into the United States 22.a. Does the beneficiary have an I-94/I-94W/I-95 Arrival-Departure Record Number OR an entry stamp in his or her Passport to establish that he or she entered under the Visa Waiver Program Electronic System for Travel Authorization? (You are required to submit the original copy, front and back, of Form I-94/I-94W/I-95 for each person included in this benefit request.) Yes 22.b. Arrival-Departure Record Number 23. The beneficiary s Arrival-Departure Record or entry stamp placed in his or her Passport expires or expired on: (Date) Go to Part 4, Number 24

10 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Page 8 of 11 PART 4 INFORMATION ABOUT BENEFICIARIES (continued) 24. USCIS must have information from an official government-issued identity document. This identity document must contain a photo. Does the beneficiary have a government-issued photo identity document? If Yes provide information from one form of identity document below. If No go to Number 25. Yes Yes Yes 25. Explain why the beneficiary does not have a government-issued photo identity document. Passport (Country) Passport Number Expiration Date Driver s License (State) Driver s License Number Expiration Date Other ID (Issuer) ID Number Expiration Date Go to Part 5 PART 5 YOUR SIGNATURE, ATTESTATION, AND REGISTRATION WITH USCIS AT THE TIME OF FILING THIS BENEFIT REQUEST The questions on this benefit request were: (Select one) SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT OR PETITIONER 1.a. Read by me, or to me, in the English language; or 1.b. Translated to me in the language below. 3.a. Signature of Applicant or Petitioner 3.b. Date of Signature 1.b.1. Language to which translated 2. Translation performed by: Relative Neighbor/Friend Business Associate Preparer named in Part 6 Representative named in Part 6 Other (Explain) If someone other than you prepared this benefit request, complete Part 6.A.

11 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Page 9 of 11 PART 6 INFORMATION CONCERNING PREPARER AND/OR DESIGNATION OF REPRESENTATION 6.A. PREPARER INFORMATION USCIS requires the disclosure of any person other than the applicant or petitioner who prepared or assisted in preparing this benefit request. USCIS does not require disclosure of persons or entities who only transcribed into electronic form the information provided by the applicant or petitioner, or other disclosed preparers or representatives. (Select one) 1.a. The preparer is NOT an attorney or Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) accredited representative. 1.b. The preparer is an attorney or BIA-accredited representative who only prepared the benefit request and WILL NOT be representing the applicant or petitioner further. 1.c. The preparer is an attorney or BIA-Accredited representative who WILL be representing the applicant or petitioner with USCIS. (Complete 6.B.) 2. Preparer s Name Family Name (Last) Given Name (First) Middle Name 3. Preparer s Business or Organization Name 4. Preparer s Mailing Address Street Number Street Name Apartment Number City or Town State Zip Code Province Postal Code Country 5. Preparer s Daytime Phone Number 6. Preparer s Address 7. Was the preparer paid to prepare this Benefit request? 8. Does the preparer have a preexisting relationship with the applicant or petitioner? SIGNATURE OF PREPARER Yes No Yes No 9.a. Signature of Preparer 9.b. Date of Signature If Yes what type Of relationship is it? Relative Neighbor/Friend Business Associate Other (Explain) If you have an attorney or accredited Representative, complete Part 6.B.

12 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Page 10 of 11 PART 6 INFORMATION CONCERNING PREPARER AND/OR DESIGNATION OF REPRESENTATION (continued) 6.B. DESIGNATION OF REPRESENTATION Until such time as the authorization is withdrawn or terminated, the applicant or petitioner, by his or her signature, authorizes USCIS and other agencies of the U.S. Government administering U.S. citizenship and immigration laws to disclose any information pertaining to the applicant or petitioner in any record or system of records relating to immigration matters to the representative named, and to his or her law firm or BIA-recognized organization, under the Privacy Act of Representative s Full Name Family Name (Last) Given Name (First) Middle Name 2. Representative s USCIS Account Identifier 3. Representative s Business or Organizational Name 4. Representative s Physical Address Street Number Street Name Apartment Number City or Town State Zip Code 5. Representative s Mailing Address (If different from Physical Address) Street Number Street Name or PO Box Apartment Number City or Town State Zip Code 6. Representative s Daytime Phone Number 7. Representative s address 8.a. I am an attorney and a member in good standing of the bar of the highest court(s) of the following state(s), possession(s), territory(ies), commonwealth(s), or the District of Columbia. Bar Memberships (List States) Bar Card Number(s) or equivalent I AM NOT subject to any order of any court or administrative Agency disbarring, suspending, enjoining, restraining or otherwise restricting me in the practice of law. I AM subject to any order of any court or administrative Agency disbarring, suspending, enjoining, restraining or otherwise restricting me in the practice of law. Explain 8.b. I am an accredited representative of the following qualified non-profit religious, charitable, social service, or similar organization established in the United States, so recognized by the Department of Justice, Board of Immigration Appeals under 8 CFR SIGNATURE OF REPRESENTATIVE 9.a. Signature of Representative 9.b. Date of Signature Accredited Organization Name Representative s Accreditation Date SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT OR PETITIONER Organization s Date of Accreditation or Recognition Representative s Accreditation Expiration Date 10.a. Signature of Applicant or Petitioner 10.b. Date of Signature

13 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Page 11 of 11 PART 7 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR CLAIM TO THIS BENEFIT If you require more space to provide any additional information within this benefit request, please use the space below. 1.a. Part Number 1.b. Item Number 1.c. Free text to capture information PART 8 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION COLLECTION FROM PART 3, ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION If you answered "Yes" to any of the questions in Numbers 20.a. through 25 in Part 3, Eligibility Information, provide the Item Number you are answering, and answer the corresponding question(s). Please use Number 11 if you wish to provide additional information than what is requested. Item Number from Part 3, Eligibility Information 1. Full Name of Person Involved Family Name (Last) Given Name (First) Middle Name 2. Provide your relationship to the person involved Relationships Spouse Child Parent Sibling None Other (Explain) 3. Alien Registration Number of person involved Where did the incident occur? City or Town State Province Country 8. Name of entity, or organization involved. 9. Provide an explanation of the incident, activity, act, issue, reason, and/or duties involved. 10.a. 10.b. Date and/or time period involved: (From To) 11. Additional Information

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21 SUPPORTING STATEMENT Automated Integrated Operating Environment (IOE) OMB No NEW A. Justification. 1. The Government Paperwork Elimination Act (GPEA), Public Law , (Section 2 Background) requires that Federal Agencies use electronic filing to conduct official business with the public. In addition, the E-Government Act of 2002, Public Law , 116 Stat. 2899, 44 U.S.C. 101, was passed to promote the use of the Internet and emerging technologies within and across Government agencies, provide citizen-centric Government information and services, reduce costs and burdens for businesses and other Government entities, promote access to high quality Government information and services across multiple channels, and transform agency operations by utilizing, where appropriate, best practices from public and private sector organizations. As part of its ongoing effort to comply with GPEA and the E-Government Act, USCIS is engaged in a Business Transformation initiative. This supporting statement is for part of the Business Transformation initiative called the Integrated Operating Environment (IOE). The IOE will collect information electronically using wizard technology and will allow e-filing from entities and individuals who submit applications and petitions to USCIS. This supporting statement is for the information collection request (ICR) covering the first phase of Business Transformation. The specific respondents to whom this ICR applies is outlined below. This ICR will be revised as additional phases are added to the IOE s capabilities. 1

22 2. Business Transformation initiative. USCIS has evaluated its data collection practices to improve the consistency and timeliness of its adjudications, as well as to support identity management, evaluate benefit eligibility, promote customer service, and manage national security and benefit risk. After analyzing its forms and filing processes, USCIS has developed a standard data template for biographical data. By collecting a minimal set of identical data elements from all respondents, the standard data template will enhance the consistency of the data collected upon which adjudicators base their decisions. These standard data elements fall generally into four USCIS business purposes: (1) Identity Management, (2) Benefit Eligibility Evaluation, (3) Improved Customer Service, and (4) Risk Analysis. Notably, differing data collection rationales can apply to a specific data element; for example, an applicant s date of birth can serve to provide USCIS with information relative to Identity Management, Benefit Eligibility Evaluation, and Benefit Risk Analysis. The standard data to be collected are described in the table below. Part 1 Part 2 Basic biographic information about the individual applying for the benefit. Information to determine/confirm the specific benefit being requested. Standard for immigration benefit requests. Varies by benefit request type. 2

23 Part 3 Part 4 Information specific to the eligibility of the benefit being requested. Information about other persons being included in the benefit request. Part 5 Signatures and attestation. Varies by benefit request type. Standard for immigration benefit requests that allow for derivative1/ beneficiaries. Standard for immigration benefit requests. Part 6 Part 7 Information about preparers and representatives. Additional information about claim to the benefit. Standard for immigration requests. Standard when more space is required on the benefit request, this addendum is provided so the information can be collected in a structured manner. Part 8 Structured response addendum. Standard asks questions associated with determining potential conditions of inadmissibility when an affirmative answer is provided. The collection of standardized data provides the following benefits: Improves accuracy of the information by adopting a uniform format for each question and eliminates the disparity between how each element is collected for different requests. For instance, a uniform name and address format will reduce transposing of names or incomplete or inaccurate addresses. Will be familiar to applicants who apply for multiple benefits over a period of time. This familiarity could simplify each subsequent request. Will create efficiencies through the consolidation of data requests and the re-use of data contained in the IOE. 1 Derivative means that the alien s immigration status arises from the status of the primary petitioner based on either a family or employment relationship, making that alien a beneficiary of the status and petition of his or her relative or employer. 3

24 Should reduce processing delays caused by a request for evidence (RFE) required because an applicant provided insufficient information. Will allow automated business rules to be applied and ensure that they are applied consistently to all applicants. Collects an address and cellular telephone number adopting modern communication alternatives not addressed in current information collections, and improves USCIS ability to communicate with its customers. Will promote inter-agency information sharing, improve policy analysis and the ability to evaluate impacts, conduct research, and perform program assessments. The following sections provide greater detail for each data collection concept: Identity Management USCIS must be able to determine with a high degree of assurance the actual identity of the person to accurately determine his/her eligibility for the benefit sought. USCIS must be able to check databases, watch lists, and criminal record systems such as those managed by the U.S. Departments of State (DOS), Justice (DOJ), and Homeland Security (DHS). The identity verification includes currently claimed biographic information, past government interactions, and any additional information that may exist about the applicant. USCIS has analyzed the biographical data that provides the greatest level of identity 4

25 assurance, and the highest potential for uncovering derogatory or validating information about a person. The IOE template contains sufficient information to verify the identity, identify government transactions involving the person, and identify those who may have ever tried to mask their identity. Finally, the elements developed should establish benefit eligibility and the validity of qualifying derivative relationships pertinent to the request. Benefit Eligibility Evaluation The information collected in the standard data template, used with business rules (based on the Immigration and Nationality Act (Act) and governing regulations), will enable the automated business process to screen and analyze a customer s benefit request. This enhanced evaluation process will ensure that adjudication decisions for immigration benefits continue to be accurate and consistent after the IOE is online by having an initial completeness check. Improved Customer Service Improved customer service is a key objective of Business Transformation. Collection of standardized and modern contact information will help USCIS effectively communicate with its customer base and provide timely, accurate and efficient communication. Risk Analysis 5

26 Business Transformation will increase national security risk evaluation of benefit requests and add improved background checks. The standardized data will enhance the Risk Analysis System by comparing data elements that can reveal non-obvious relationships between an applicant and other entities that may present fraud or national security risks. For example, the system may review whether the information matches what the individual with this name and address provided to other Federal agencies. USCIS does not currently have this capability due to the way biographical data was collected. USCIS business rules for benefit types will alert adjudicators to data elements and anomalies that may point to potential fraud. As a result, the standardized data in the IOE will decrease the potential for fraud or a national security risk. 3. The first benefit type available in the automated IOE will be the Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. USCIS believes the IOE will be the preferred alternative for filing those requests for which interactive filing is an option. Nonetheless, paper submission will be an option for entities and individuals that cannot use the Internet. However, in the future, USCIS may eliminate the current paper Form I-539, and instead require mandatory e-filing of this benefit through the automated IOE. USCIS is very interested in receiving comments concerning mandatory e filing of this benefit and any future benefits that are added to the automated IOE. The IOE will use wizard 2/ technology and will allow for e-filing. Wizard technology 2 A wizard is the term usually ascribed to a form completion or survey-taking software application which asks questions and guides the respondent to subsequent questions as necessary or applicable based on each response 6

27 gives USCIS the ability to electronically interact with its customers by guiding them through the application process, assisting them to file complete and accurate benefit requests, and reducing the collection of unnecessary information. Data entry will be guided by wizard by which the responses to a predetermined set of required questions will result in presentation of the appropriate next steps. The wizard reinforces business rules to maximize the quality and completeness of the application by informing the applicant about what data and required evidence needs to be collected according to the benefit sought. As the customer enters data, the wizard will check the data against eligibility requirements and indicate to the customer whether that data conflicts with eligibility criteria for the benefit. The IOE will not prevent anyone from submitting a benefit even if data and required evidence submitted are found to be incomplete. The IOE will allow the customer to save the benefit request and return to it at a later time to add or modify existing data prior to submitting it. The customer will receive real-time information as he or she completes the benefit request, including a fee receipt notice and associated tracking number at time of filing. The IOE will be available by releases, and phases. The first phase of Release A is planned for December Release A, Phase 1: The first benefit type available in the automated IOE will be an Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. provided. 7

28 USCIS developed screen shots of select portions of the questions associated with this benefit type. The screen shots show the look and feel of the automated IOE. USCIS is also providing a decision tree showing the sequence of questions that the wizard will follow for an Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. For example, when the customer answers the question What is your First Name? then he or she will be prompted with the question: What is your Given Name? Our customers can continue to use the current paper Form I-539 (OMB Control No ). As previously stated above, USCIS may eliminate the current paper Form I-539 in the future, and instead require mandatory e-filing of this benefit through the automated IOE. USCIS is very interested in receiving comments concerning mandatory e filing of this benefit and any future benefits that are added to the automated IOE. The screen shots and decision tree associated with the Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status will be available for public comment under 5 CFR The screen shots, and decision tree can be viewed at 4. A search of USCIS automated forms tracking system was performed and revealed no duplication. There is no similar data collected. 8

29 5. This collection of information does not have an impact on small businesses or other small entities. 6. If this information is not collected, USCIS will be unable to comply with GPEA and will not be able to provide electronic filing of applications by the public. 7. There are no special circumstances applicable to this information collection. 8. USCIS will address comments prior to publishing the 30-day notice in the Federal Register. 9. USCIS does not provide payments or gifts to respondents in exchange for a benefit sought. 10. The information requested, and the associated evidence, is collected under the Immigration and Nationality Act. The primary purpose for providing the requested information is to determine if the applicant has established eligibility for the immigration benefit sought. The information provided will be used to grant or deny the benefit sought. The information provided is voluntary. However, failure to provide the requested information, and any evidence, may delay a final decision or result in denial of the applicant s benefit request. The information provided by the applicant for this benefit request may be shared with other Federal, State, local, and foreign government agencies and authorized organizations following approved routine uses described in the associated 9

30 published system of record notices [DHS-USCIS Benefits Information System, and DHS-USCIS-001 Alien File (A-File) and Central Index System (CIS), which can be found at The information may also be made available, as appropriate, for law enforcement purposes or in the interest of national security. 11. There are no questions of a sensitive nature. 12. Annual Reporting Burden: Release A, Phase 1: a. Number of Respondents 58,500 b. Number of Responses per each request 1 c. Total Annual Responses 58,500 d. Hours per Response 2.25 e. Total Annual Reporting Burden 131,625 Annual Burden Hours Total annual reporting burden is 131,625. This number is calculated by multiplying the number of respondents (58,500) x (1) number of responses x (2.25) 2 hours and 15 minutes per response. 10

31 13. There are no capital or start-up costs associated with this information collection. Any cost burdens to respondents as a result of this collection are identified in item 14. There is an application fee of $290 and an $85 biometric fee associated with the filing of this information collection. A breakdown of the fee costs are identified in item Annualized Cost Analysis: Printing Cost $ 0 Collecting and Processing $ 21,937,500 Total Cost to Program $ 21,937,500 Fee Charge $ 21,937,500 Total Annual Cost to Government $ 0 Government Cost The estimated cost of the program to the Government is calculated multiplying the number of respondents (58,500) x $290 suggested fee (which includes the suggested average hourly rate for clerical, officer, and managerial time with benefits); plus the number of respondents (58,500) x $85 biometric fee. Annual Public Cost The estimated annual public fee cost is $21,937,

32 This is calculated by multiplying the number of respondents (58,500) x $290 suggested fee (which includes the suggested average hourly rate for clerical, officer, and managerial time with benefits) plus the number of respondents (58,500) x $85 biometric fee. The estimated annual burden cost is $3,934,271. This is calculated by multiplying the number of respondents (58,500) x (1) number of responses x (2.25) 2 hours and 15 minutes per response x $29.89 (average hourly rate). 15. Since this is a new information collection, there is an increase of 131,625 annual burden hours over that currently contained in the OMB inventory. There is also an increase of $21,937,500 in annual burden costs. However, these figures are temporary because, once the IOE has been properly tested and is fully operational for the Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, it is anticipated that our customers will start to migrate from submitting paper Form I-539 and start using the automated IOE. Accordingly, the number of respondents, burden hours, and annual cost burden will decrease for the paper Form I-539. Once OMB approves this information collection, USCIS will submit Form OMB-83C, Correction Worksheet, for the paper Form I-539 to reduce the number of respondents, annual burden hours, and annual costs. 16. USCIS does not intend to employ the use of statistics or the publication thereof for this collection of information. 12

33 17. Based on 5 CFR (a)(1)(iii)(C), USCIS is seeking an exception from OMB to not display the expiration date for this information collection. Since this is an automated system, it will be confusing to our customers if the expiration date is displayed since the IOE will not expire. 18. USCIS does not request an exception to the certification of this information collection. B. Collection of Information Employing Statistical Methods. Not Applicable. C. Certification and Signature. 13

34 PAPERWORK CERTIFICATION In submitting this request for OMB approval, I certify that the requirements of the Privacy Act and OMB directives have been complied with including paperwork regulations, statistical standards or directives, and any other information policy directives promulgated under 5 CFR Sunday Aigbe, Date Chief, Regulatory Products Division, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Office of the Executive Secretariat, Department of Homeland Security. 14

35 User Interface Design Screen Examples

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38 USCIS Privacy Act Statement AUTHORITIES: The information requested on this benefit application, and the associated evidence, is collected pursuant to The Immigration and Nationality Act, as amended INA 101,et seq. PURPOSE: The primary purpose for providing the requested information on this benefit application is to determine if you have established eligibility for the immigration benefit for which you are filing. The information you provide will be used to grant or deny the benefit sought. DISCLOSURE: The information you provide is voluntary. However, failure to provide the requested information, and any requested evidence, may delay a final decision or result in denial of your benefit request. ROUTINE USES: The information you provide on this benefit application may be shared with other federal, state, local, and foreign government agencies and authorized organizations in accordance with approved routine uses, as described in the associated published system of records notices [DHS- USCIS Benefits Information System and DHS-USCIS Alien File (A-File) and Central Index System (CIS), which can be found at The information may also be made available, as appropriate for law enforcement purposes or in the interest of national security. 4

39 USCIS Reporting Burden Statement Reporting Burden: An agency may not conduct or sponsor an information collection and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it display s a currently valid Office of Management and Budget (OMB) control number. The public reporting burden for this information collection is estimated at 2 hours and 15 minutes per response. You may send comments concerning this estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden to rfs.regs@dhs.gov. Note: This address should only be used to submit comments concerning this information collection. Please do not submit requests for individual case status inquiries to this address. If you are seeking information about the status of your individual case, please check My Case Status online at: or call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at

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