Business & Entrepreneurship, Corporate & Securities Updates, Legal Updates
Several of our clients have recently received official-looking letters from an entity called California State Corporations and a few others companies asserting that the California entities are not in compliance with California law. These companies essentially passe themselves off as a branch of the state government where there is actually no affiliation or connection. These solicitations are not being made by the California Secretary of State’s office and are not being made by or on behalf of any governmental entity. The mailings imply that the entities are either not in compliance or are required to complete enclosed paperwork and return it along with a fee ranging anywhere from$49.50 to $150 for obtaining a Certificate of Status. Please note that business entities are not ordinarily required to obtain a Certificate of Status with the California Secretary of State, unless for a specific transaction-related purpose, such as in commercial real estate financing. Should you require a Certificate of Status, we an assist you in obtaining this document. Although a business entity can use an intermediary to submit filings, request a certificate of status, and pay fees to our office, no business is required to go through another private entity in order to obtain documents or certificates from the Secretary of State’s office and no private entity can issue these documents. The California Secretary of State only charges $15 for the first certificate and $5 for each additional certificate – NOT the $49.50 this particular scam asserts. Furthermore, the scam claims that obtaining the document will take seven to 10 business days, when turnaround times are currently only 24 to 48 hours....
Immigration Law Updates, Legal Updates
Third Country Nationals are any non-Canadians applying for a nonimmigrant visa. This includes visa categories such as the O-1, L-1, E-2 and E-3 visas for Australians. U.S. consulates and embassies in Canada have temporarily suspended nonimmigrant visa processing for non-Canadians during June, July and August (2014) due to staffing issues. If your appointment has already been scheduled, you will not be affected by these changes in service. Please note also that this does not apply to applicants who live in Canada with a valid Canadian immigration status. Currently, the only consulates with remaining availability during the month of September are Calgary and Vancouver. However, this is subject to change so please plan in advance. The Toronto and Ottawa posts are currently scheduling visa appointments in October and do not plan to release any earlier appointments during the summer months. There is the possibility of the Ottawa Embassy assisting in scheduling appointments for applicants who hold senior or executive positions with their U.S. employers. However, it is wise to consider all interview options available in each individual circumstance and plan accordingly. Should you require additional assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@ibvadvisorygroup.com or (310)...
