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The Amalgamated Transit Union – the largest labor union representing transit and allied workers in the U.S. and Canada – fights for the interests of its hard-working members and promotes mass transit. Founded in 1892, the ATU today is comprised of more than 200,000 members, including: metropolitan, interstate, and school bus drivers; paratransit, light rail, subway, streetcar, and ferry boat operators; mechanics and other maintenance workers; station agents, clerks, baggage handlers, municipal employees and others.

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Local 113-toronto, on, ttc workers ratify strong, hard-fought contract  , international president costa attends the atu women’s caucus in las vegas, atu celebrates pride month, latest news, nj transit members demand full funding for nj transit, latest on metro micro: still few riders, high costs, an atu hero at local 113-toronto, on, local 308-chicago, il, calls out the cta for not properly training second chance employees, extreme heat, smoke should get us disaster label, groups say.

ATU Locals are there to help you at the grassroots level. It's people who work where you work and live where you live. Local leadership knows your workplace culture and issues. They are the eyes and ears of the Union. If you need advice about your workplace or want to get involved with fighting for your rights on the job, we encourage you to contact your Local.

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In transit magazine atu canada locals lobby for change at 2024 legislative conference.

THE VOICE OF TRANSIT WORKERS ATU-COPE

As transit workers, our raises, benefits, and job security all depend on politics. The public budgets that fund transit systems across the country determine how big the pot is when we are negotiating our contracts, and whether our union can win big pay increases or whether we are fighting for scraps. When politicians have our back, they work to pass laws to keep us safe on the job and keep our transit systems running.

Spiritual Tourism in India Gives Boost to These 7 Emerging Cities

Bulbul Dhawan , Skift

June 24th, 2024 at 7:47 AM EDT

Hotel companies are betting big on the smaller towns in India. With spiritual tourism accounting for 60% of the domestic tourism, the segment is likely to drive the growth in the Indian hospitality industry for the next few years.

Bulbul Dhawan

Spiritual tourism will help develop more tourism-related infrastructure in emerging cities in India, according to a report by real estate services firm Colliers.

In its latest report, Colliers identified 7 emerging cities, all religious hubs, where hospitality is set to drive real estate growth: Amritsar in Punjab; Ayodhya and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh; Dwarka in Gujarat; Puri in Odisha; Shirdi in Maharashtra; and Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh. 

The report highlighted that spiritual tourism is set to be a major growth driver for the development of several temple towns in India, thanks to government policy support and infrastructure developments.

The improvements in infrastructure, such as upgraded roads, flagship trains, and new airports, are expected to attract real estate investors to these spiritual destinations.

Smaller towns are emerging as dynamic contributors to India’s economy, driven by improved infrastructure, affordable real estate, skilled talent, and government initiatives, said Colliers India CEO Badal Yagnik. “Significant momentum is expected across residential, commercial, retail, hospitality, and industrial segments,” he said.

How Religious Travel Powers India’s Tourism

In the 2022-2023 financial year, the travel and tourism industry contributed about $199 billion to India’s GDP. The Colliers report revealed that spiritual tourism holds a 30% market share in the country’s travel and tourism sector and accounts for 60% of the domestic tourism market.

Data from India’s Ministry of Tourism showed that in 2022, over 1.4 billion tourists visited religious sites across the country. These places of religious tourism generated INR 1,340 billion (over $16 billion) during the year.

Destinations like Ayodhya and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh have seen significant upgrades to better accommodate tourists. In a recent interview with Skift , Preeti Srivastava, the tourism deputy director in Uttar Pradesh, mentioned that the state’s tourism industry has been transformed following the inauguration of the Kashi-Vishwanath corridor for visitor management in Varanasi in December 2021.

Spiritual Tourism and Hospitality Development

Spiritual destinations in India have been witnessing significant investment by hotel companies. Some of these cities include:

• Ayodhya is looking at an annual footfall of 23 million, and a report by brokerage firm Jeffries estimates that it could attract over 50 million tourists annually. Due to its recent development, the land value appreciation in 2024 as compared to 2019 is expected to be over 100%. However, it has a low hospitality sector presence currently, as most projects are under development. 
• In January, Radisson Hotel Group opened Park Inn by Radisson in Ayodhya, with another project under development. Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) also signed two hotels in the city under the Ginger and Vivanta brands last year, while a third one under the IHCL SeleQtions brand was signed this year. Lemon Tree Hotels is planning a 200-key hotel in Ayodhya, while a hotel under Wyndham’s Ramada Encore brand has been signed. 
• According to the Colliers report, Amritsar has been witnessing an annual footfall of 30 million. This has resulted in the city having a high presence of branded hotels in the city. 
• Last year, Marriott opened a Le Meridien hotel in Amritsar, while in December.
• IHG Hotels announced the signing of a new voco hotel in the city.
• Home to the holiest temple in Sikh faith — Golden Temple — the city also marked the entry of the Trademark Collection by Wyndham brand in India earlier this year.
• Accor is also set to open a Grand Mercure-branded property in the city. 
• Varanasi, post its upgrade, has had a significant increase in tourists. According to Srivastava, after the inauguration of the Kashi-Vishwanath corridor, a total of more than 130 million tourists visited the pilgrim city in 2022 and 2023.
• Last month, IHCL signed its fourth hotel in city under its budget brand Ginger.
• Wyndham Hotels opened a Ramada Plaza in the city last year,
• Hilton Opened DoubleTree by Hilton in Varanasi in September 2023. 

Government Boost to Spiritual Tourism

The report said that the focus by the government on spiritual tourism is boosting this segment. “Given the latent potential, the segment’s market size grew from $44 billion in 2020 to about $60 billion in 2023,” it said, adding that the segment is expected to grow 9-10% annually to reach $130 billion by 2032. 

Recent government schemes including Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (Prashad) and Swadesh Darshan 2.0 – to develop sustainable destinations – has led to an increase in tourist-friendly pilgrimage destinations. 

“Various government initiatives in recent years have also uplifted the infrastructure and real estate market of select spiritually inclined tourist destinations,” the report said. 

The government has replicated the upgradation of Varanasi in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh for the Mahakaleshwar Temple, and is now looking to uplift Mathura . This has led to a more systematic tourist flow in these destinations, creating the potential for better tourist management. Madhya Pradesh tourism is considering implementing a tourist registration system to tackle overcrowding and overtourism. 

There has also been a boost in aviation sector for spiritual tourism destinations as the number of airports have doubled over the past 10 years. Airports have come up in smaller cities such as Shirdi in Maharashtra and Kushinagar in Bihar for devotees.

Skift India Report

India is booming. Discover the subcontinent’s most important travel news here every Tuesday-Thursday.

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Tags: hospitality , hospitality news , hotel investments , ihg , india , india travel , Indian Hotels Company , investments , radisson hotel group , real estate , religious travel , tourism , Travel Trends , wyndham

Photo credit: Spiritual tourism holds a 30% market share in the travel and tourism sector in the country. Press Information Bureau

• IPad accessories

Upgrade your M4 iPad Pro travel carry with these accessories

As someone who uses their iPad Pro as their main computer, I tend to bring it with me wherever I go. One of my favorite aspects about the iPad is that it is basically a modular device without actually saying it’s modular. Between the pin connectors, Thunderbolt port, the magnets, and its lightweight chassis, this makes it the perfect computer to pair with many accessories. So here are some of my favorite accessories I have been using with my new M4 iPad Pro, specifically centered around travel.

If you want to see a hands-on video of all of these accessories and more, be sure to check out our video below!

Native Apple accessories

I want to mention briefly that I use Apple’s native accessories for the M4 iPad Pro. If you use your iPad as your main computer, like I do, then getting the new Magic Keyboard is a must. It completely changes how you use the iPad by turning it into a laptop-like experience. It is pretty pricey, but it’s the only true way to make the iPad compete with something like a Macbook Air. Secondly, I am using the new Apple Pencil Pro. I am no designer or artist, but I tend to take a lot of notes and work with Affinity Photo. The new updates to the Apple Pencil Pro , like haptics, the squeeze gesture, and Find My support, have been welcome upgrades. But now that we have those out of the way, lets get into the fun part!

Shinjuku Messenger Bag

I am always looking for new backpacks and messenger bags to carry all of my tech goodies. This new Shinjuku Messenger by Waterfield checks off many boxes for people looking for a high-quality leather bag that’s lightweight and has the perfect amount of storage for a work commute or a quick work weekend. The combination of full-grain leather on the outer flap and their new X-Pac canvas material makes for a nice, well-rounded package.

• The compact is made for the 11in iPad Pro and smaller devices
• Full is made for the 13in iPad Pro and also fits the 13in Macbook air and other similar-sized devices
• It comes in three colors: Brown Waxed Canvas, Storm Grey and Black
• Dedicated compartment for iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard
• Larger, more open area for larger items
• Internal water bottle holder
• Exterior zipper on flap for quick access to items

Overall, I think this is a great option for someone who isn’t looking for a large backpack but more of a slick and minimal messenger bag look. You can also fit much more than I thought you could fit in the bag itself. The compact size is $229 and the full size is $239, which is very competitive pricing when considering the build quality and materials.

Woolnut Leather Folio Case

The M4 iPad Pro is not a cheap package, especially when considering the additional Apple accessories. I spent around $1800 on my 1TB iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro. So, the first thing I did was to make sure I had a safe way to store my iPad while still being able to bring it with me. The new Leather folio by Woolnut was perfect. This is essentially a perfectly sized leather sleeve that fits your M4 iPad Pro with the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro. The outside is made of full-grain leather, which smells fantastic, and the inside is made of this extremely soft and satisfying wool felt. So, it will still be protected even if you place your iPad in the sleeve without the keyboard.

• It comes in 3 leather colors: Black, Cognac & Green
• It comes in 3 Matte PU material colors: Black, Blue & Green
• Room for Magic Keyboard & Apple Pencil
• Zipper protection avoids scratches
• Dedicated Apple Pencil holder

Woolnut does offer these in two different material finishes, in leather and in this matte PU material as well. Both are functionally identical, so if you want to save some money, the matte PU version is on sale for under $60, while the full-grain leather version is $160.

ProtoArc USB- C Hub Mouse

I love it when a product can serve multiple functions. This mouse by ProtoArc does just that. On the surface, it looks like a normal lightweight and portable mouse. It has all your normal functions, like connecting to 3 different devices, a scroll wheel, an extra shortcut button, and charging via USB-C. But the mouse actually houses a mini USB-C hub! If you look at the rear of the mouse, you can actually pull out a 3 in 1 USB-C hub, which is perfect for those on-the-go situations. It has:

• HDMI 2.0 port
• USB-A 3.0 port (up to 5GBps)
• USB-C power passthrough port with 60W support

Of course there are USB-C hubs out there with many more ports and with faster data and power speeds, but for something small compact that is just part of another product, I love this thing. Not only that but it’s only $50 (sometimes on sale for $40). This has been one of my favorite recommendations for anyone looking for a portable mouse.

5 in 1 Magic Power Bank

In the same light as the ProtoArc mouse, I wanted to find a charger that did more than just plug into a wall and charge my iPad. Raycon, yes, the headphone company recently released a slew of power-related products, and they are actually great! I recommend checking them out but we are going to focus on their 5 in 1 charger.

So, how is this a 5 in 1 charger? Firstly, it looks and acts as a typical wall charger. It connects to any AC outlet and has a USB-C and USB-A port that outputs 20W. Charges of this size typically can charge at higher wattage, but since this is only for an iPad, the 20W is more than enough, especially considering everything else. Not only does it charge your plugged-in devices, but it also houses a 10,000mAh battery that is constantly charging itself when it’s plugged into the wall. It doesn’t stop there; then it has two short built-in cables, a USB-C cable, and a lightning cable to charge your devices on the go. It also has a Magsafe puck on its side that supports up to 15W of charging. Then the last two things to mention are that it has a small kickstand for your phone and an LED screen that gives you the battery percentage of the power bank.

This is the perfect travel charger for iPads and iPhones. My only gripe is the output. It only charges at 20W, so I wouldn’t consider this a solution for a MacBook.

Other accessories

As I mentioned above, be sure to check out our video here to see the rest of the accessories in my pack. I bring up products like the Sonos Ace, a Magsafe battery bank a cleaning kit and more! Let me know what you think of these accessories. What type of accessories do you use with your iPad? Let’s discuss in the comments below!

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

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Fernando Silva started off his professional career in the enterprise technology space with his primary focus being moving large organizations from onsite legacy technologies to a more modern cloud infrastructure. All the technologies he dealt with were mostly in the Microsoft arena but he was always a lover of Apple at heart.

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Accra Technical University Admission Form 2024/2025 is Out | See How to Apply & Deadline

Accra Technical University Admission Form 2024/2025 is Out | See How to Apply & Deadline

ATU Admission Forms 2024 — Find out about Accra Technical University Admission Forms 2024, Accra Technical University admission forms 2024/2025, Accra Technical University admission requirements for 2024/2025 academic year, Accra Technical University application portal 2024 — www.atu.edu.gh admission forms, Accra Technical University online application closing date 2024 will be provided in this page below.

Accra Technical University Admission Form 2024

Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons for admission into undergraduate and diploma programmes at the Accra Technical University, ATU for the 2024/2025 admission.

The Accra Technical University (ATU) form for 2024/2025 is now available online via www.atu.edu.gh and registration of ATU form will commence by May, 2024. The closing date for the registration of Accra Technical University admission 2024 has been scheduled between June 30th to July 31st, 2024.

We are pleased to let you know that the Accra Technical University has released the long awaited admission form for prospective undergraduate and diploma students in the 2024/2025 academic year.

All interested and eligible candidates who have met with the ATU admission requirements can download the online application form directly via this page.

In this article, we would give you every information that you need to know about ATU admission forms and how to apply successfully.

To know how to apply for ATU admission form, you are expected to read this guide carefully to the end. See more details below.

Accra Technical University Admission Entry Requirements 2024

Candidates applying for admission into  Accra Technical University should note that ATU basic entry requirements is atleast having credits (A1 – C6 in WASSCE and A – D in SSSCE)  in English, Core Mathematics and Integrated Science (for Science related programmes) or Social Studies (for non-Science related programmes) and three relevant elective subjects.

Accra Technical University Admission Form Price 2024

How Much is Accra Technical University Admission Form? The Cost Price of the ATU 2024 e-voucher for ghanaian applicants is GH¢190.00  while international applicants is  $0.  This fee is mandatory and non refundable for every applicant.

How to Apply for ATU Admission Form 2024/2025

To successfully apply for the Accra Technical University admission form 2024/2025 academic year, you are advised to follow the instructions given below:

Candidates should visit the ATU admission portal – www.atu.edu.gh  and click on the ‘Apply Button’ or alternatively go to  https://application.atu.edu.gh/  to apply.

Candidates should purchase an e-voucher from any of the vendors listed below.

Login with the form on the right hand side, using the voucher SERIAL and PIN that was provided to you.

Select your mode of entry and indicate your entry type (i.e Post WASSCE/SSCE, Post Diploma, Matured etc). Click submit to start applying.

Fill application form and attach your passport picture. The applicant ’ s passport picture should be in .jpg, .jpeg, .png or .gif format and must not exceed 100KB in size. Make sure you upload a picture showing your face clearly.

Clicking the  SAVE AND CONTINUE LATER  button will save your application for editing later.

Clicking the  SUBMIT AND PRINT  button will submit the form and generate a reference number which will be sent to the phone number you provided.

Make sure you provide correct information before submitting the form. Changes after form submission is not allowed.

Finally, track and print your online application form.

Where to Buy Accra Technical University Admission Forms 2024

Ghanaian applicants can now purchase ATU University admission application voucher via USSD which can be done directly from their phones. All you need is to dial  *389* 288# and follow all procedures.

The Accra Technical University, ATU has released the list of accredited vendors for applicants to pay in their application fee. E-vouchers for online application are up for sale at the following banks:

• Access Bank,
• Republic Bank,
• Agricultural Development Bank,
• Ghana Commercial Bank,
• Zenith Bank,
• Universal Merchant Bank,
• Consolidated Bank Ghana (CBG),
• Prudential Bank
• Fidelity Bank.
• Ghana Post Offices.

Important Things to Note About ATU Admission 2024/2025

Inconsistency in name or picture on registration slip is not acceptable to the university and may lead to disqualification of affected candidates.

Candidates’ names on their ‘O’ or ‘A’ Level Certificates, and other registration documents must be the same.

Candidates MUST be sixteen (16) years of age or above to be eligible for the exercise.

Candidates awaiting SSCE results or its equivalent can also apply for admission provided the result will be available at resumption.

A change of programme after the submission of application forms will NOT be allowed.

Candidates must ensure that they register with their own valid personal telephone (GSM) numbers and email addresses.

Applicants are to ensure that application forms are posted early enough to be received before the deadline for submission as forms received after the deadline will not be processed.

Registration is online, therefore, candidates are not expected to be present physically on the university campus, but advised to register from any location.

No additional documents will be accepted after submission of completed application forms.

ATU Online Application Closing Date 2024

Accra Technical University admission forms for 2024/2025 deadline. The ATU admission application closing date will be communicated to all candidates in their respective emails and phone numbers. Therefore, you are advised to provide a valid email address and phone number while registering.

Accra Technical University Admission News 2024/2025

All information concerning the Accra Technical University latest admission news for 2024/2025 academic year will be provided here. If you want more updates on ATU admission form 2024, keep visiting or bookmark this page to stay updated.

If you have any difficulty in applying for  Accra Technical University admission forms , kindly let us know via the comment section below and we’ll reply promptly.

14 thoughts on “Accra Technical University Admission Form 2024/2025 is Out | See How to Apply & Deadline”

Please I have just finished the online application process. Am I required to post a copy of the application form to the school?

There’s no need to post a copy to the school. You’ll be notified through the email you provided when everything is ready.

Please when will forms be out

What if you have not receive any reference number,doe does that mean your application is not successful?

how to apply for admission

Please anytime I try purchasing the form online,I do receive a notification that ‘form details not available’

Please have you found a solution to your problem I’m facing the same problem

How can I get de 2022 / 2023 academic forms to register

Dial this code *389* 288# and buy your e voucher card and start to proceed

Please when will the admission list be out for 2023/2024

please i am current in a different university. studying diploma electrical/electronics engineering. final year. will be done by October 7th .please i want to know if i can come with the transcript of 3 semesters and later bring the last one which i am currently writing the end of semester exams

Please I want to know the closing date for Admission forms

Please, when will 2023/2024 admission forms will be out

Please when is the deadline,I have two results from two schools please can I combined it

Comments are closed.

Real ID vs Driver's License: Gearing up for your next trip

So, you're planning a trip and wondering if your driver's license will cut the mustard?

Buckle up, because we're about to navigate the world of REAL ID and standard driver's licenses.

Real ID vs Driver License

While both driver's licenses and Real IDs allow you to hit the road within your state, a Real ID offers some extra perks . It follows stricter security standards and is considered a federally approved form of identification.

Think of a Real ID as a driver's license with superpowers. It can be used to board domestic flights within the U.S. and enter certain federal buildings like military bases.

How much does a Real ID cost in New Jersey?

The good news is, getting a Real ID in New Jersey typically doesn't break the bank compared to renewing a standard driver's license.

For most New Jersey drivers, a Real ID costs $35 while a standard driver's license costs $24. Both are valid for four years from issuance or renewal.

Can a Real ID replace your passport?

While Real IDs are great for domestic travel, they cannot replace a passport for international flights. Passports are still your go-to form of identification for venturing beyond US borders.

Is a Real ID required to fly domestically?

Currently, a Real ID is not mandatory for domestic flights. However, the deadline for states to comply with Real ID standards is May 7, 2025. After that date, a Real ID or another acceptable form of federal identification, like a passport, will be required to board domestic flights.

How to get a Real ID in New Jersey

Ready to get your Real ID in New Jersey? Make an appointment at your local Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) agency. Be prepared to show documents proving your identity, Social Security number and address. Luckily, the MVC website offers a handy document selector tool to help you gather the right paperwork before you head out. All appointments are booked via the scheduler on the  website .

What does a Real ID look like?

A Real ID closely resembles a standard driver's license, but with a key difference. Look for a star located in the upper right corner – that's your badge of Real ID approval.

With a Real ID in your wallet, you'll be ready to soar through domestic airports and access federal facilities with ease. Remember, the deadline for Real ID compliance is approaching, so plan accordingly for smooth travels.

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Update on Change to U.S. Travel Policy Requiring COVID-19 Vaccination for nonimmigrant travel

Worldwide Visa Operations: Update

Employment-Based Fourth Preference (EB-4) Announcement

Suspension of Visa Services in Sudan

Diversity Visa 2024 Update

Nonimmigrant Visa Fee Increases to Take Effect June 17, 2023

India EB-3 Retrogression

Expiration of Covid-Era Visa Application Fee Receipts

Digital Visa Authorization (DVA) Proof of Concept

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Important Update on Waivers of the Interview Requirement for Certain Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants

Department of State to Process Domestic Visa Renewals in Limited Pilot Program

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Department of State/AILA Liaison Committee Meeting March 20, 2024

Emami Litigation - Notice to Class Members

Easing the Nonimmigrant Visa Process for U.S. College Graduates

On June 18, 2024, the Biden-Harris Administration announced actions to more efficiently facilitate employment-based nonimmigrant visas for those who have graduated from college in the United States and have a job offer.

This initiative will allow certain individuals to more quickly receive nonimmigrant work visas if they are deemed eligible. 

As part of this initiative, the Department will clarify existing guidance to consular officers related to when they should consider recommending that DHS grant a waiver of ineligibility, where applicable. 

Q: What will these process clarifications mean for current NIV ineligibility waiver processing steps?

These clarifications will describe when consular officers should consider recommending that the Department of Homeland Security waive ineligibility for these applicants on an expedited basis, in conjunction with visa applications overseas.  However, the processing steps will remain the same. 

Waiver requests are adjudicated by the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Admissibility Review Office. 

For additional information related to visa ineligibility waivers, please visit our website: Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws (state.gov) .

Q: How can an individual apply for a petition-based nonimmigrant work visa?

Before an applicant can apply for an H-1B or other temporary worker visa, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) must generally first approve a Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Form I-129 .  For more information about the petition process, see Working in the U.S. and Temporary (Nonimmigrant) Workers on the USCIS website.  Once USCIS approves the petition, it will send the prospective employer a Notice of Action, Form I-797.  

Individuals may apply for a nonimmigrant visa after USCIS has approved the petition. There are several steps in the visa application process. The order of these steps and how applicants complete them may vary at the U.S. embassy or consulate where they apply. Please visit the embassy or consulate website for instructions on how to apply.

Individuals will need to complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 and schedule an appointment for their visa interview at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Q: If an applicant needs a visa ineligibility waiver, how can they request one as part of a standard interview? 

Applicants who are denied a visa will generally be notified by the consular officer of the basis for the ineligibility, and whether they are eligible for a waiver of their ineligibility.  

If an applicant is ineligible for a visa based on certain grounds of inadmissibility in Section 212(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, they may be eligible for a waiver.

Waiver requests are adjudicated by the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Admissibility Review Office, based on a recommendation from the Department of State. 

For additional information related to visa ineligibility waivers, please visit our website: Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws (state.gov)

For questions related to waiver approvals, we refer you to the Department of Homeland Security. 

Q:  How long are current interview appointment wait times for employment-based nonimmigrant visas at overseas posts?

Currently, interview wait times for H-1B visas are minimal at most of our overseas posts.

Please visit our website to check the current interview appointment wait times for employment-based visas at our overseas posts: U.S. Visas (state.gov)

Q: How will forthcoming edits to the Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM) clarify existing guidance to consular officers?

Upcoming FAM updates will clarify when consular officers should recommend that DHS grant a waiver of the applicant’s ineligibility, consistent with the waiver process that is already available under existing law to individuals seeking nonimmigrant visas, and consistent with Department regulations that describe the types of cases in which consular officers should consider recommending a waiver of ineligibility.  It is not conferring any new benefits and is not limited to DACA recipients.

These updates will also encourage consular officers to consider recommending expedited review of waiver requests in conjunction with certain nonimmigrant visa applications overseas, consistent with existing Department regulations and guidance.

This will result in certain individuals to potentially more quickly receive work visas if DHS approves a waiver of ineligibility.   

While leaving the United States to apply for a visa is not without risks, this policy will clarify when consular officers should consider recommending waivers, so that individuals and employers can make informed decisions and streamline the process so that those who qualify can get to work quickly.  

Q:  When will the guidance be issued?

Updated guidance for consular officers will be issued within the next 30 days.

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Moscow Metro: The Complete Guide

The Moscow Metro is busy, but easy to use

Robert Schrader

With nearly 7 million riders per day on its 16 lines, the Moscow Metro is the sixth-busiest metro system in the world as of March 2019. Riding the Moscow Metro, however, does not need to be a stressful experience. In fact, it's by far the easiest and most enjoyable way to get around Moscow, especially since many Moscow Metro stations are veritable works of art. Our guide to the public transportation will teach you how to ride the Metro and more.

How to Ride the Moscow Metro

Here is some essential practical information you need to know to easily and seamlessly ride the Moscow Metro.

• Fares: Moscow Metro fares start at 55 rubles for a one-way ticket, which is good for five days after purchase. You'll pay more if your journey takes you outside of the central Moscow zones of A and B, though this is not the case for most tourists.
• How to Pay: Cash is the only way to buy a one-way ticket. However, if you have Apple Pay or Samsung Pay, you can tap your phone directly at the ticket gate and enter using NFC technology. You can also use both mobile payments and credit cards to top-up your reloadable Troika card.
• Routes and Hours: The Moscow Metro has 13 lines that snake and criss-cross the city, plus outer and inner loop lines that string them together, as well as a monorail. The Moscow Metro is open from approximately 5:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., and trains run with a frequency that can range between 1 and 7 minutes.
• Service Alerts: Download the official MosMetro app on the AppStore or Google Play .
• Transfers: Regardless of how you pay to enter the Moscow Metro, you can transfer to any of the core lines plus the Moscow Monorail without passing through an additional ticket gate. If you wish to transfer to bus lines, airport trains or other rail services, paying with Troika or your mobile device might be more convenient.
• Accessibility: Although Moscow Metro is impressive and modern in many ways, it is not very accessible . Visitors who use wheelchairs should try to avoid the subway and take aboveground transportation instead.

Beautiful Moscow Metro Stations

The Moscow Metro has achieved internet notoriety — and not just because of how busy it is. Several Moscow Metro stations are distractingly beautiful, including:

• Aviamotornaya: Brilliant gold themed to the flight of Icarus.
• Komsomolskaya: Bright yellow ceilings and murals chronicling Russia's journey to independence.
• Mayakovskaya: Art Deco, featuring mosaic ceilings and pink marble floor
• Park Pobedy: Modern station (built in 2003) with colorful murals; one of the deepest metro stations in the world (276 feet below ground!).
• Ploschad Revolutsii: Constructed in 1938 at the height of Soviet pride, this station is home to bronze statues that locals still rub for good luck.

Although it's technically legal to take pictures within the Moscow Metro, guards might approach you if you spend too long photographing a particular station, or use professional equipment like a tripod. Be as discreet as possible to avoid an uncomfortable confrontation!

Other Moscow Public Transit

In addition to the (mostly) subterranean transport offered by the Moscow Metro, Russia's capital is home to a number of aboveground transport options. This includes a large network of buses, as well as trams and "trolley buses." While these are all cheaper than the Moscow Metro, they also require some command of Russian to use; the ordinary buses are also subject to sitting in Moscow's terrible traffic.

In terms of payment, your Moscow Metro ticket isn't valid for transit to any other form of transit, though a Troika card will allow you to do so seamlessly. Likewise, while the various Aeroexpress trains (between Sheremetyevo Airport and Belorussky Station, Domodedovo Airport and Paveletsky Station and between Vnukovo Airport and Kievsky Station) feature modern vehicles and offer fast, reliable connections to Moscow's major airports, these lines are not considered to be part of the Moscow Metro system.

As noted earlier, the Moscow Metro is technically organized by "Zone," with the center of Moscow being occupied by the "A" and "B" zone. Again, you shouldn't worry too much about this. If you're hanging out in the parts of the city, you probably speak enough Russian to be able to ask a local for advice!

Taxis and Ride Sharing Apps

The bad news? It is exceedingly unlikely that a taxi drive in Moscow will speak English. The good news? Uber works in Moscow as of March 2019, which means that if you have the app installed on your smartphone (and a Russian SIM card, which you can pick up at Moscow Airport), your next Moscow ride is basically a matter of plug-and-play.

Russia also has a number of homegrown ride sharing apps, though these aren't as ubiquitous as Uber — they also don't have good English-language interfaces. If you're interested in learning more about them, in any case, be sure to visit the websites of InDriver or Taxi Maxim . Keep in mind that many of these applications require Russian credit cards, or a Russian bank account to pay for rides.

Security-wise, the technological aspect of using ride sharing apps in Russia makes them relatively safe. On the other hand, taxis have a dodgy reputation at best. If you do end up needing to take a taxi in Moscow, make sure to use a registered car. The ones waiting at the airport stands are generally legitimate; within the city limits, try and have your hotel call a taxi to be safe.

Renting a Car in Moscow

Traffic in Moscow is reliably awful, to say nothing of how difficult navigating the city's serpentine network of ring roads and one-way streets can be. However, if you do want to rent a car in Moscow (or in Russia, more generally) there are some facts you should keep in mind.

Documentation wise, it's not officially necessary to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) — your US driver's license will work, at least if you plan to drive in Russia for less than six months. However, it might serve you well to get an IDP (you can apply at your local AAA office) for peace of mind. In Russia as in the US, you drive on the right side of the road; gas costs about 40 rubles per liter, or about $2.40 per gallon.

Another potential downfall of renting a car of Russia is the threat of interactions with Russian traffic police. While this doesn't put you in any mortal danger, there is a chance you'll have to bribe your way out of any confrontation, which outside the center of Moscow or other Russian cities will almost certainly necessitate some Russian language or body language skills.

Tips for Getting Around Moscow

Regardless of whether you take the Moscow Metro or any of the other transportation options listed here, these general tips for getting around Moscow will serve you well:

• Moscow's city center is very walkable. Unless you're visiting on a bitterly cold day during the middle of winter, many of Moscow's attractions are close enough together that you could walk. For example, you can easily walk from Red Square to Gorky Park, Bolshoy Theatre , Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts , the Kremlin or simply along the Moskva River.
• All roads lead to Red Square. Although Moscow is not a grid-pattern city, it is relatively organized. The majority of major roads start and end at Red Square; the rest are circular ones that connect the "spokes" from Red Square. With this basic idea in mind, it's pretty difficult to get lost in Moscow!
• Moscow's awful traffic means that rail is usually the quickest option. Even if the physical distance between two places is shorter by car, traveling via the Moscow Metro is probably going to be quicker.
• English signage in Moscow has greatly improved over the years. On the other hand, familiarizing yourself with the Cyrillic alphabet before your trip to Russia probably wouldn't be a bad idea. If you need to push someone out of the way (spoiler alert: you probably will!), say izvineetye (sorry) to excuse yourself.
• Petty theft is common, especially during rush hour. Wear your backpack in front of your body, and don't keep large amounts of cash (or your smartphone!) in your back pocket. Hide any conspicuous signs of wealth to avoid being a target!

The Moscow Metro is easy to use—once you get the hang of it. After all, more than two billion trips take place across its rails every year. If it were difficult, this simply wouldn't be possible! Want to learn more about things to do in Moscow? Make sure to check out this guide to Red Square , which is both the geographical and cultural heart of Moscow (and arguably Russia).

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Ukraine-Russia war latest: Moscow and Kyiv exchange dozens of prisoners

The two sides have returned 90 prisoners each in a deal brokered by the United Arab Emirates. Meanwhile, the International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for two senior figures following alleged attacks on civilian targets. Ask our experts a question about the war below.

Tuesday 25 June 2024 21:58, UK

• Russia and Ukraine each return 90 prisoners of war
• Arrest warrants issued by ICC for former Russian defence minister and top general | Russia's short response
• Ivor Bennett analysis:  Warrants may send powerful message - but Putin is proof they won't mean much in practice
• Explained : What impact will an ICC warrant have on top Russian officials?
• Your questions answered : Has Western media been honest about Ukrainian military failures?
• EU begins membership talks with Ukraine and Moldova
• Big picture : What you need to know this week

Ask a question or make a comment

That brings an end to our live updates on the Ukraine war for this evening.

We'll bring you any major updates overnight. In the meantime, you can scroll through the blog below to catch up on the day's developments.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued a direct message to the two Russian top generals who are the subject of fresh arrest warrants by the International Criminal Court.

The court has accused Sergei Shoigu and General Valery Gerasimov of war crimes and the crime against humanity of inhumane acts.

In his nightly video address, Mr Zelenskyy said: "Shoigu, Gerasimov – your path to The Hague is open."

The Ukrainian president also said the official start of Ukraine's ascension into the EU today was a "historic result", adding: "We will definitely implement everything necessary to advance through each chapter of our relations with the EU and to create a treaty – a treaty of Ukraine's accession."

US defence secretary Lloyd Austin and Russian defence minister Andrei Belousov spoke over the phone today, in what marked the first call between Mr Austin and his Russian counterpart since March 2023.

The two men discussed the importance of open lines of communication, the Pentagon said.

Spokesperson Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder said Mr Austin had initiated the conversation. 

Mr Belousov was appointed to the role of defence minister last month after the shock dismissal of longtime minister Sergei Shoigu by Vladimir Putin.

Some of the returned Ukrainian soldiers were prisoners taken from the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, the head of the Ukrainian president's office has said.

Andriy Yermak said of the 90 fighters returned by Russia today, 52 were from a large group of Ukrainians captured while trying to defend the Azovstal steelworks in southern Ukraine while others had been held as prisoners after the capture of Chernobyl.

Both sites were seized by Russia early in the war.

Mr Yermak described the latest prisoner swap as an "important exchange".

"Thanks to our team for their work. Grateful to the UAE for facilitating the exchange. We will return everyone," he said.

Russia and Ukraine have each returned 90 prisoners of war in the latest swap between the two countries, the Russian defence ministry has said.

In a statement on Telegram, the ministry said Russian prisoners were returned with the United Arab Emirates acting as an intermediary.

The prisoners were being flown to Moscow for medical checks, it added.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed in a post to social media that 90 Ukrainian soldiers were returned by Russia.

"We remember all our people in Russian captivity. We continue our work for the release of everyone. We seek the truth about everyone who may be held by the enemy," he said, as he thanked the Ukrainian exchange team. 

By Ian King , business presenter

The EU has launched its 14th package of sanctions against Russia - this time targeting Vladimir Putin's liquefied natural gas exports (LNG) for the first time.

The measure is the latest attempt by the bloc to deny Mr Putin's regime of money as his war on Ukraine drags into its 29th month.

The sanctions, which will kick in after a nine-month transition period, fall short of an outright ban on Russian LNG shipments.

This partly reflects the fact that EU members are themselves still allowed to buy LNG from Moscow - even though the bloc has set a target of phasing out Russian fossil fuels by 2027.

The EU followed the lead of the United States and the UK in banning Russian oil imports, with one or two limited exceptions, in 2022 after Russia attacked Ukraine.

What latest sanctions do

The key measure in the package, signed off late last week in the face of opposition from Germany and Hungary, is a ban on trans-shipments off EU ports of Russian LNG - essentially preventing the commodity from being sold to third countries via EU ports.

Part of the package also targets specific vessels - including an initial 27 oil tankers - that are used to get around the price cap slapped on Russian oil by the G7 countries.

It will also, in time, target vessels caught, for example, carrying ammunition from North Korea to Russia or transporting grain stolen from Ukraine by Moscow.

The latest package of sanctions also bans new investments and services to complete LNG projects under construction in Russia.

That should, in theory, stymie Russia's attempts to build out its LNG exports and grow market share.

Other elements include bans on EU businesses from using the Bank of Russia's system for transfer of financial messages (SPFS) system - the Bank of Russia's version of the West's Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) inter-bank messaging system.

Under this measure, the European Council will be allowed to draw up a list of non-Russian third-country banks connected to the system and ban them from doing business with EU operators.

Targeting rich Russians and pop stars

There are also restrictions on access to Russian media, as well as new technological and export restrictions and a fresh blacklist of a further 116 people deemed to be supporting the war, including the singer Yaroslav Dronov, who performs under the name Shaman and whose song 'I'm Russian' was reportedly played daily to Alexei Navalny, the late democracy campaigner, in his Arctic Circle prison cell.

Also targeted was another popular Russian singer, Polina Gagarina, who performed before Putin at an event in Crimea following the invasion of Ukraine.

The EU has also introduced a number of bans, targeting wealthy Russians, on private jet travel to EU resorts.

Announcing the measures, the European Commission said: "As the Russian aggression against Ukraine continues, the EU remains determined to keep acting to further reduce Russia's sources of revenue and capacity to wage war.

"Today's measures send a clear and strong signal of EU unity and of our support to Ukraine and its people."

Will watered-down sanctions have any impact?

The big question is whether these latest sanctions will actually have much impact - particularly in view of the fact that they were watered down.

Germany, for example, reportedly prevented a widening of measures that would have forced EU companies to guarantee that their customers would not be able to sell prohibited goods to Russia.

And Hungary - the value of whose Russian LNG imports is up 59% year on year - is said to have demanded assurances that no current or future measures will impact the Paks II nuclear power plant which is being built by the state-owned Russian power company Rosatom 63 miles to the south-west of Budapest.

The chances are that the sanctions will only go so far in hurting Russia.

Still a major supplier

According to Kpler, the data provider, Russia is the second-biggest supplier of LNG to the EU after the United States. It says that, so far this year, the US has met 41% of the EU's LNG needs and Russia 21%.

And in May this year, for the first time since just after the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, imports of Russian LNG were greater than those of American LNG.

Nor do these sanctions cover imports of Russian gas transported to the EU through pipelines via Turkey and Ukraine itself.

Much of this ends up in central European countries such as Austria, which in the first five months of this year had 80% of its gas needs met by Russia, but also countries such as Italy and Belgium.

Moreover, while the bans on trans-shipments will make it harder for Russian LNG exports to reach their intended destination, they are unlikely to stop them altogether.

They will just force Russia to use longer shipping routes - while a lot of the LNG previously being exported in this way is now, ironically, likely to be sold to customers in Europe itself.

It is always encouraging to see the EU seeking to deprive Putin's war machine of money.

But these sanctions could have gone a lot further. That they did not highlights the extent to which the EU still relies on Russian gas.

Donald Trump has been presented with a plan to end the war in Ukraine if he is elected to the White House in November.

The Reuters news agency reports that two key advisers for the presumptive Republican nominee have put forward the plan, which involves telling Kyiv it will only get more US military aid if it enters peace talks.

At the same time, the US would warn Moscow that refusal to negotiate would result in increased support from Washington for Ukraine, according to retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg.

Lt Kellogg and Fred Fleitzl, who were both chiefs of staff in Trump's National Security Council while he was president and who came up with the plan, said a ceasefire would be based on prevailing battle lines during peace talks.

Mr Fleitzl said Trump showed a positive attitude towards the plan.

"I'm not claiming he agreed with it or agreed with every word of it, but we were pleased to get the feedback we did," he said.

The Kremlin has said any peace plan from a future Trump administration would need to reflect the battlefield "reality" - but that Vladimir Putin was open to talks.

"The value of any plan lies in the nuances and in taking into account the real state of affairs on the ground," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

From the Ukrainian side, presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said freezing the war at prevailing front lines would be "strange".

"Ukraine has an absolutely clear understanding and it is spelled out in the peace formula proposed by President Zelenskyy, it is clearly stated there - peace can only be fair and peace can only be based on international law," he said.

Four people have injured in a Russian attack on Kharkiv in northeast Ukraine, an official has said.

Regional governor Oleg Synegubov said Russia hit the village of Bobrivka with "at least four" guided aerial bombs this afternoon.

Two women, aged 87 and 40, and two men aged 67 and 56 were injured, he said.

The women were treated on the spot while the two men were hospitalised for treatment.

Ukrainian police say they have detained a man involved in the alleged torture of a former soldier in Ukraine's fourth-largest city of Dnipro.

The National Police service said on Telegram that Dmytro Yavornytskyi was targeted last Thursday by a group of men in balaclavas and camouflage who injured and put handcuffs on him.

The men have since been identified and one has been detained today, the service said.

Dnipro's regional prosecutor's office has begun criminal proceedings alleging illegal deprivation of liberty and torture.

More now from Russian deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov, who has warned of "tragic and fatal" consequences if the West underestimates Russia's determination.

Mr Ryabkov said Moscow was ready to stand up for itself "and ensure its own interests in any situation".

"I don't even want to assume that this underestimation could become tragic and fatal," he said, adding the West was confronting a major nuclear power. 

"There are different ways to respond to this - rhetorical and practical. We have the resources to convey signals to the West in the field of nuclear deterrence, even in the absence of our opponents' willingness to conduct a sober dialogue. But there is a danger, it cannot be underestimated, that their side may make a mistake. We will try not to," Mr Ryabkov said at a conference in Moscow.

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Family Information Form – Visitors, Students and Workers (IMM 5645)

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