 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 




|
|
CORPORATE Teleconference
|
Topic |
To Be Announced |
|
Date |
Wednesday,
06.Jun.2012 |
|
Time |
2:00pm (Eastern Time, U.S.) |
The topic of this
teleconference in our series for employers and their representatives
will be forthcoming.
Instructions for Registering for Corporate
Teleconferences
This FREE teleconference
series is designed to guide employers, enabling them to better serve their
foreign national employees in these matters. To participate you must be
an employer, HR manager, or similar agent in a company.
If you have already attended a Murthy Law Firm corporate teleconference, you will
automatically receive an eMail reminder and a follow-up eMail with details for upcoming
corporate teleconferences about 24 hours before. If you have NOT signed up for this teleconference
series before,
please eMail the following information to
teleconference@murthy.com. Specifics regarding the topic, as well as the
telephone number, access code, and other details regarding the
teleconference will be eMailed to interested company representatives prior
to the teleconference.
Name
Title / Position in the Company
Company Name
Company Address
Contact Telephone Number
Company WebSite URL
Please feel free to
share this announcement with your company representative.
Murthy Teleconferences cover a wide variety of topics, announced on
MurthyDotCom and in the MurthyBulletin. We address many
of the concerns shared by our readers.

Past Teleconferences in this Series
02.May.2012 Corporate Teleconference
PERM Overview and
Recent Adjudication Trends
The topic of this
teleconference in our series for employers and their representatives
is pursuing PERM labor certification in light of recent U.S. Department of
Labor (DOL) trends. The session describes the impact of the DOL's increased
scrutiny of PERM recruitment and recent decisions from the Board of Alien
Labor Certification Appeals (BALCA). Murthy Law Firm Attorneys discuss
strategies for handling prevailing wage determinations and properly
documenting recruitment in order to prepare a strong case for labor
certification.
04.Apr.2012 Corporate Teleconference
U.S. Tax Issues for Foreign National
Employees and High-Net-Worth Individuals
Our
April 2012 teleconference is a unique topic we wish to extend beyond our
usual audience. We cordially invite employers and their representatives as
well as company owners, presidents, executives (CEOs, COOs, CTOs, CFOs, and
others), plus stakeholders, who may benefit from U.S. tax information
regarding high-net-worth individuals. This teleconference covers some of
the most important matters regarding tax consequences to U.S. employers who
hire foreign workers. Discussion includes state and federal income tax
and FICA withholding for foreign national workers in various nonimmigrant
statuses (H1B, F-1, L-1, J-1, etc), per diem vs. wages, Form 1099 vs.
Form W-2, employing workers outside the U.S., and more. Practical tax issues
for high-net-worth individuals is also discussed, including the effect
of Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) and tax consequences of
foreign income for U.S. citizens and green card holders.
07.Mar.2012 Corporate Teleconference
L1A/L1B and EB1 Multinational Executive or Manager Categories:
Transferring Employees within a Corporate Family
This teleconference in our monthly series for employers and their
representatives focuses on the L-1 intracompany transferee classification,
as well as the EB1 multinational executive or manager (MET)
employer-sponsored permanent residence ("green card") option. Attorneys from
the Murthy Law Firm provide a general overview of the types of employees who
may qualify for the L-1 nonimmigrant category, and/or the MET permanent
residency classification. They also discuss the special regulations
pertaining to foreign companies opening new offices in the United States.
01.Feb.2012
Corporate Teleconference
H1B Cap-Subject Petitions:
Transition from F-1 to H1B & Issues Regarding IT Consulting Companies
The topic of our
February 2012 teleconference in this series, designed for employers and
their representatives, addresses H1B "cap" cases. Murthy Law Firm attorneys
discuss the annual quota system, who is subject to the cap, and the criteria
and requirements for filing H1B cap-subject petitions. The session also
addresses issues related to transitioning from F-1 to H1B, including the
cap-gap, USCIS fee requirements, and matters important to IT consulting
companies that assign workers at third-party sites.
Jan 04, 2012 Corporate Teleconference
Highlights of
2011 & Effective Immigration Planning for 2012 and Beyond
In the
first teleconference of 2012, in this series designed for employers and
their representatives, a panel of
attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm provides an overview of the most important developments of 2011 in the
field of Immigration law, and how they relate to employers. The panel also provides guidance on how employers can effectively structure their
immigration procedures for 2012 and beyond.
Dec 07, 2011 Corporate Teleconference
Overview for
Employers: Employment-Based Options Besides PERM
The topic of this
teleconference in our series for employers and their representatives focused
on employer-sponsored permanent residence ("green card") options other than
PERM labor certifications. In this session, attorneys from the Murthy Law
Firm discussed the requirements for two of the three EB1 categories:
multinational executive transferees and outstanding professors /
researchers. We also explained green card options under schedule A and
trends in adjudications and other considerations for employers exploring
these options.
Nov 02, 2011 Corporate Teleconference
H1B Hot Topics:
Current RFE Trends, H1B Amendments for Change in Location, Fee
Payment Requirements, & More
This teleconference
in our monthly series for employers and their representatives focused on
the most current H1B hot topics, including specific issues relevant to the
IT consulting industry. Attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm discussed the
most recent H1B RFE trends and some of the new types of evidence requested
by USCIS. They also discussed the issue of 'new labor condition
application (LCA) v. H1B amendment' for a work location change, as well as
the recent controversy in H1B legal / USCIS fee payment, and other timely
matters.
Oct 05, 2011 Corporate Teleconference
Overview:
Investigations of U.S. Employers of Foreign Workers by USCIS, ICE,
DOL, DOS, etc.
This teleconference
in our monthly series for employers and their representatives focused on
the state of investigations of U.S. employers of foreign workers. Attorneys
from the Murthy Law Firm presented an overview of how employers are
investigated by various government agencies, including USCIS and ICE
(through their Fraud Detection and National Security offices), as well as
the U.S. Departments of Labor and State. They also discussed recent
developments from DOL decisions relating to H1B workers and back wages and
provided suggestions for best practices to help avoid compliance problems.
Sep 07, 2011 Corporate Teleconference
AC21: Analysis
and Discussion
This teleconference in our monthly series for
employers and their representatives focused on the American
Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act (AC21), as it relates to H1B
extensions and employment-based green card portability. Attorneys from the
Murthy Law Firm discussed some common strategies utilizing AC21 law to
consider when employing a foreign national. They also discussed some
recent developments and the possibility of regulatory guidance in the area
of AC21.
Aug 03,2011 Corporate Teleconference
Overview of
Nonimmigrant Employment-Based Visa Options
This
teleconference in our monthly series for employers and their agents
focused on nonimmigrant employment-based visa options. Attorneys from the
Murthy Law Firm discussed the most common nonimmigrant visas utilized by
employers - H1B, L-1, and TN, but also discussed some of the less common
visas that may be available in appropriate situations - E, O, P, and R. They
offered a brief overview of the requirements, advantages and
disadvantages of each visa classification.
Jul 06, 2011 Corporate Teleconference
LCA Best
Practices to Ensure Employer Compliance
This
teleconference
focused on best practices for businesses to assure compliance with the DOL's
rules for the Labor Condition Application (LCA) program. Attorneys from the
Murthy Law Firm discussed trends and procedures of DOL audits and
investigations of company compliance with LCA program rules. They also touched upon actions that
sometimes prompt DOL visits and what to do to avoid common
problems. Methods for using internal audits proactively to address problems
and protect one's business in the event of an investigation were covered,
as well.
Jun 01, 2011 Corporate Teleconference
Dealing with Consulates &
Embassies on Nonimmigrant Processes
This teleconference
in this monthly series designed to help businesses understand and work
within U.S. immigration law focused on recent trends involving the large
number of denials and refusals of H1B, H-4, L, and other visa applications at
U.S. embassies and consulates. Murthy Law Firm attorneys discussed
the sharp increase in 221(g) requests, as well as delays for "administrative
processing" and advisory opinions, increasing numbers of H1B petitions being
returned to the USCIS for possible revocation, and the new power for
consular officers to temporarily revoke already approved visas.
May 04, 2011 Corporate Teleconference
LC Based GC Options: EB2 v. EB3
This teleconference will
offer employers and their representatives an explanation of the distinctions
between the EB2 and EB3 classifications in the green card process. Murthy
Law Firm attorneys will explain the requirements for these categories, the
role the employer plays in determining EB2 v. EB3, and strategies for
demonstrating business necessity to support the EB2 classification. The
session will describe the difference between USCIS and DOL guidance on
equivalent education and experience as well as the challenge of proving that
the employee meets the requirements for the position.
Apr 06, 2011 Corporate Teleconference
F-1 and
Transition to H1B: Timing and Cap Issues
This teleconference in our series
for employers and their representatives addressed H1B "cap" cases. Murthy
Law Firm attorneys discussed the annual quota system, who is subject to
the cap, and what the criteria and the requirements for filing an H1B
cap-subject petition. The session also addressed issues relating to the
transition from F-1 to H1B, including the cap gap, as well as the recent
USCIS fee changes, form revisions, and the proposed registration system for the
annual H1B cap.
Mar 02, 2011 Corporate Teleconference
New Export
Control Compliance Section of Form I-129,
Part II
Practical
Guidance on How to Answer the New Export Control Questions of Form I-129
The topic of this teleconference in our
series for employers and their representatives will focus on the new export
control compliance section of Form I-129, which is used for foreign worker
petitions including H1B and L-1. The USCIS recently announce that, beginning
February 20, 2011, petitioners for H1B, H1B1, L-1, and O-1A petitions will
be required to make certifications as to whether their foreign workers will
have access in the workplace to technology and technical data for which an
export license is required, and if applicable, to confirm that the
petitioner will prevent such access until an appropriate export license or
other authorization is obtained. Part I of this teleconference focused on
some important basics of the technology export control laws (EAR and ITAR)
and the analysis of the new questions on Form I-129. Part II will
concentrate on practical guidance on how those questions relate to employers
- especially those in the IT industry - and discuss some examples.
Feb 02, 2011 Corporate Teleconference
New Export Control Compliance Section of
Form I-129, Part I
The topic of this teleconference
in our series for employers and their representatives focused on the new
export control compliance section of Form I-129, which is used for foreign
worker petitions including H1B and L-1. The USCIS recently announce that,
beginning February 20, 2011, petitioners for H1B, H1B1, L-1, and O-1A
petitions will be required to make certifications as to whether their
foreign workers will have access in the workplace to technology and
technical data for which an export license is required, and if applicable,
to confirm that the petitioner will prevent such access until an appropriate
export license or other authorization is obtained. The discussion
focused on some important basics of the technology export control laws
(EAR and ITAR), analysis of the new questions on Form I-129, and practical
guidance on how those questions relate to employers - especially those in
the IT industry.
Jan 05, 2011 Corporate Teleconference
PERM Overview and Recent
Adjudication Trends
The topic
of this teleconference in our series for employers and their representatives
was pursuing labor certification (PERM) in light of recent Department of
Labor (DOL) trends. The session described the impact of DOL's increased
scrutiny of PERM recruitment and recent decisions from the Board of Alien
Labor Certification Appeals (BALCA). Murthy Law Firm attorneys discussed
strategies for handling prevailing wage determinations and properly
documenting recruitment in order to prepare a strong case for labor
certification.
Dec 01, 2010 Corporate Teleconference
NIV Consular Issues
The topic of this
teleconference in our series for employers and their representatives focused on recent trends involving nonimmigrant visas at U.S. embassies and
consulates. The recession, high rate of unemployment in the United States,
and new policy guidance from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
have led to increased numbers of 221(g) requests for evidence and denials of
H1B visas. As many employees are now planning holiday travel, this was a
timely discussion for employers who may be concerned about their employees'
consular processing. Attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm discussed basic
requirements for consular processing, special concerns for IT consulting
companies, and some of the most frequently asked questions about consular
processing. Proactive
strategies to increase the chances for approvals of nonimmigrant visas, as
well as issues affecting family members (including applications for H-4,
L-2, and other dependent visas), delays in the issuance of H and L visas
relating to the Petition Information Management Service (PIMS) and other
complex consular matters were discussed.
Nov 03, 2010 Corporate Teleconference
Hot Topics and
Current Issues
The topic of this
teleconference in our series for employers and their representatives will
focus on hot topics and current issues. In this session, attorneys from the
Murthy Law firm will discuss issues such as upcoming changes in USCIS filing
fees and the new $2000 H1B/L-1 filing fee, the effect of H1B cap gap after
October 1st, and an update on availability of H1B cap numbers. We will also
discuss the legal criteria for adjudication of EB1 petitions in light of the
recent USCIS interim memo.
Oct 06, 2010
Corporate Teleconference
Life After GC
This
teleconference focused on life after the green card. In this session,
attorneys from the Murthy Law firm discussed issues such as what happens
when your employee becomes a permanent resident, updating the Form I-9, and
changes in salary. We also covered transfer of employees abroad, reentry
permits, and the effect of extended time abroad on naturalization
eligibility.
Sep 01, 2010 Corporate Teleconference
EAD Extensions and I-9
Reverification: Making Sure Your Employee is Authorized to Work
This
teleconference focused on issues related to delays in processing employment
authorization documents (EADs). In this session, attorneys from the Murthy
Law Firm discussed the need to track EAD expiration dates, the timelines for
renewing EADs, steps for facilitating EAD issuance in 90 days, and options
when a gap in EAD validity occurs. EADs are taking longer to process than in
the past. This has resulted in an increasing number of employees who may not
have EAD renewals in time. Our attorneys covered the steps employers should
take to avoid breaks in their employees' authorization to work, as well as
the considerations and requirements when there is a lapse in work
authorization.
Aug 04, 2010 Corporate Teleconference
Prevailing
Wage Determination for H1Bs and PERM
The topic of this
teleconference in our series for employers and their representatives focused on determining
the prevailing wage for H1B and PERM
filings. In this session, attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm
discussed the U.S. Department of Labor's prevailing wage determination
guideline, different wage levels, various factors considered in determining
prevailing wage, the employer's responsibilities relating to wage
determination, and employer's obligation to pay the required wage. Our
attorneys also discussed the process of obtaining prevailing wage
determination through the National Processing Center (NPC).
Jul 07, 2010 Corporate Teleconference
AC21/GC Portability - Employer's Perspective
The topic of this teleconference in our series
for employers and their representatives focused on the eligibility of
employees for the "portability" provision under the American Competitiveness
in the 21st Century Act (AC21), which allows employees to port their green
card cases to their new employers, in certain situations. In this session,
attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm discussed the eligibility criteria,
focusing on the employer's perspective of the AC21 portability provision.
Our attorneys also discussed the obligations and special considerations
for both the original petitioners and the new employers of foreign nationals
who port their cases to their new employment.
Jun 02, 2010 Corporate Teleconference
Documentation Requirements for Employers of
Foreign Nationals (I-9s, LC Audit
Files, H1B Public Access Files)
The topic of this
teleconference in our series for employers and their representatives will
focus on the importance of and means to ensure compliance records are
properly maintained. In this session, attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm
will discuss some of the various types of records that must show an
employer's compliance with U.S. immigration laws and the basic steps that
companies must undertake to: document that their employees are authorized to
work, maintain public access files for current and former employees in H1B
status, and maintain "audit files" that support requests for labor
certification as part of sponsoring employees for their green cards. These
Murthy Law Firm attorneys will also discuss how increased government
enforcement in these areas impacts your company, and the potential ways that
"good housekeeping" can help your business stay focused on continued
success.
May 05, 2010
Corporate Teleconference
No-Shows
&Terminations - Legal Obligations and Implications for Employers of
Foreign Nationals
The topic of this teleconference in our series for employers and their
representatives concerned the legal obligations and implications for
employers when terminating foreign national employees. The session described the impact of terminations on nonimmigrant status as well as the
green card process. Murthy Law Firm attorneys discussed strategies for
addressing situations in which foreign national employees do not report to
work as expected, how to handle the issue of layoffs with respect to the
employer's labor condition application (LCA) obligations, and safeguarding
the employer's ability to file immigrant petitions for other employees.
Apr 21, 2010 Public Teleconference
Maintaining Your Status : Common Pitfalls and Solutions
This session in our quarterly public teleconference series
was for
the individual who holds a nonimmigrant status, such as H-4, F-1, F-2, etc.
Attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm specifically described steps that
must be taken to maintain nonimmigrant classification and keep options open
in order to be able to change status to work in the United States and/or
apply for permanent residence in the future. We delved further into the
potential pitfalls and complications that lead to adverse consequences
during change of status, extension of stay, and/or adjustment of status. Our
attorneys discussed common scenarios in which one's nonimmigrant status
can lapse and how to avoid resulting problems, as well as tips for
maintaining status without interruption. Special attention was given to
situations that lead to lapses in H-4 status and possible courses of action
to prevent and resolve these problems.
Apr 07, 2010 Corporate Teleconference
How to Prepare Non-Citizen Employees for Travel Outside of the U.S. in the
Current Climate
The topic
of our April teleconference in this series dealt with preparing your non-citizen employees for
travel outside of the United States, in light of recent problems encountered
with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at U.S. ports of
entry. CBP officers have singled-out foreign workers and denied them
admission to the U.S., based on perceived problems and the January 8, 2010
memo. Some workers have been subjected to expedited removal and banned from
returning to the U.S. for five years. In this session, attorneys from the
Murthy Law Firm discussed CBP procedures for the processing of arriving
foreign nationals, what to expect, the documents required, and preparations
that every employer of non-citizens should make to help maximize the chances
that their workers will be readmitted to the U.S. and able to return to
their jobs.
Mar 03, 2010 Corporate Teleconference
Filing H1B Cap Cases for FY11 &
Updates on the Jan 8th Memo from USCIS
The topic of our March teleconference in this series
offered to employers and their representatives is filing H1B cap cases for
fiscal Year 2011 (FY11) and updates on the USCIS's January 8, 2010 memo
regarding H1B. In the session, attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm
discussed filing requirements and procedures, as well as special issues
for H1B cap-subject cases for FY11, especially in light of the new USCIS
memo issued on January 8, 2010, regarding the employer / employee
relationship in the H1B context.
Feb 03, 2010 Corporate Teleconference
Complex H1B Issues for IT
Consulting Companies and Other Businesses
Our February
teleconference in this series for employers and their representatives
specifically described the potential pitfalls and complications faced by
employers when filing petitions for H1B classification for employees, and
specifically for those who are in the IT consulting industry. As many IT
consulting and other corporate entities are now planning to gear up for
filing H1B petitions for the fiscal year 2011 (FY11) H1B cap, this timely
discussion was planned for employers to learn more about the rationale
supporting how the USCIS considers and adjudicates H1B petitions. Attorneys
from the Murthy Law Firm discussed evidentiary requirements, trends in H1B
approvals and denials, and other topics.
Jan 20, 2010 Public Teleconference
Matters Important to F-1
Students Transitioning to Work Statuses
The first teleconference in this series
addressed
F-1 student issues, such as travel, Optional Practical Training (OPT), and STEM
extensions. Our attorneys discussed the transition from F-1 to
H1B status, including the timing of graduation, the cap gap, and how to
maintain status and employment authorization during the transition from OPT
to H1B, as well as other important student issues.
Jan 06, 2010 Corporate Teleconference
Addressing DOL's Scrutiny of
PERM
The
topic our January teleconference in this series for employers and their
representatives pursued labor certification (PERM) in the context of a
challenging economy. The session described the impact of the Department of
Labor's (DOL's) increased scrutiny of PERM cases and recent trends from
DOL. Murthy Law Firm attorneys discussed strategies for addressing the
offered wages for PERM cases in light of profit losses that employers may be
experiencing, how to handle the issue of layoffs, and safeguarding the
employer's ability to extend H1B status for employees beyond the six-year
maximum.
Dec 02, 2009 Corporate Teleconference
The Role of the U.S. Customs
and Border Protection in Immigration Matters
The topic our
December 02, 2009 teleconference in this series for employers and their
representatives was the role of the United States Customs and Border
Protection agency (CBP) in the United States immigration system. The session
specifically described potential pitfalls and complications of concern when
applying for readmission to the United States after international travel. It
also addressed the manner in which these issues can be examined,
adjudicated, and resolved by the CBP. As many employees of IT consulting and
other corporate entities plan for travel outside the United States during
the 2009 holiday season, this was a timely discussion for employers who may
be concerned about the orderly readmission of their employees to the United
States to continue their critical occupations in the United States.
Attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm discussed what constitutes an error on an
I-94 card issued by the CBP, how an error can be resolved, and other
frequently asked questions about the CBP and how it conducts the orderly
admission of arriving non-citizens.
Nov 04, 2009 Corporate Teleconference
Consular
Processing H1B/L-1 Nonimmigrant Visas
and EB Immigrant Visas
The topic of our
November 04, 2009 teleconference
in our series for employers and their representatives was an overview of
consular processing for H1B/L-1 visas as well as for employment-based (EB)
immigrant visas. The session addressed some consular matters
specific to employees of IT consulting companies. As many employees plan to travel during the holiday season, this discussion
proved timely for employers concerned about their employees' consular
processing. Attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm discussed basic
requirements for consular processing, special issues for IT consulting
companies, and some of the most frequently asked questions about consular
processing.
Oct 07, 2009 Corporate Teleconference
When
USCIS Comes Knocking - the USCIS Office of Fraud Detection and
National Security (FDNS), Part II
Our October
07, 2009 teleconference continued the look at visits by officers from the
USCIS Fraud Detection and National Security (FDNS)
Office. Because of the interest in this important matter, attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm
furthered their discussion of
the increasing frequency of such visits to H1B employers, employers’ options
in responding to such visits, what they should do if the officers ask to speak with
employees, the authority of the FDNS officers, and the potential
consequences of such visits, among other issues.
Sep 02, 2009 Corporate Teleconference
When
USCIS Comes Knocking - the USCIS Office of Fraud Detection and
National Security (FDNS), Part I
Our
September 2, 2009 session in this teleconference series focused on visits by
officers from the USCIS Fraud Detection and National Security (FDNS) Office.
In this overview, attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm discussed the
increasing frequency of such visits to H1B employers, employers’ options in
responding to such visits, what to do if the officers want to speak with
employees, the authority of the FDNS officers, and the potential
consequences of such visits, among other issues.
Aug 05, 2009 Corporate Teleconference
LC Primer
Our
August teleconference, provided
an
overview of the PERM labor certification process. This teleconference reviewed the standard procedures involved in filing a labor certification case,
as well as recent case law developments.
Jul 01/15, 2009 Corporate
& Public Teleconferences
Successful AOS Applications
for EB Immigration
The topic of this
teleconference was successful adjustment of status (AOS) applications for
employment-based (EB) immigration, including current and potential issues
with cases filed during the June and July 2007 VisaGate period, AC21
portability, and I-140 revocation, the nature and the movement of priority
dates, and general I-485 filing strategies and procedures. Due to the
popularity of this topic, the teleconference was replayed for the
general public on July 15, 2009.
Jun 02/17, 2009 Corporate & Public Teleconferences
Employment Immigration
Options Including: EB1, EB2, EB3, EB4, and EB5
In our June 2009
teleconference, attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm discussed various employment-based
immigration options. These included EB1 Priority Workers (Extraordinary
Ability, Outstanding Professor or Researcher, Multinational Executive or
Manager), EB2 Members of the Professions Holding Advanced Degrees and Aliens
of Exceptional Ability, National Interest Waiver, EB3 Skilled Workers,
Professionals and Other Workers, EB4 Special Immigrants, and EB5 Investor.
This teleconference was replayed for the general public on June 17, 2009.
May 06, 2009 Corporate Teleconference
H1Bs, Public Access Files, & I-9 Compliance
The
topic of our May session in this teleconference series, specifically addressing the concerns of
employers, enabling them to better help their employees going through the
immigration process, addressed the H1B process, including: LCAs,
wages, public access files, how employers must comply with rules and regulations,
types of records that need to be made available and to whom, retention of
records, relocating employees, events that can trigger investigations, and
recommendations for successfully navigating active Department of Labor
investigations.
©MurthyDotCom
Apr 01, 2009
Corporate Teleconference
Life after the Green Card :
Planning for Your Future with Reentry Permits, Naturalization Eligibility,
and Maintaining Your Permanent Residence
Our April
teleconference for employers and their agents addressed the interaction
of permanent residents, or green card holders, of the United States with
immigration law. Our attorneys answered the important questions to help
attendees understand some of the rights, obligations, and benefits of
permanent residents. New permanent residents, whether with employment- or
family-based green cards, may be considering extensive travel outside the
United States, eventually applying for citizenship or accepting a
professional opportunity abroad. Led by Attorney Sheela Murthy, our
attorneys explained the use of reentry permits, the requirements for
becoming a U.S. citizen, and some best practices to ensure permanent
residence is not only maintained, but that it also can be proven.
©MurthyDotCom
Mar 04, 2009 Corporate Teleconference
Welcome Changes to
Your H1B and Green Cases? Understanding iCert & New DOL Applications
This
teleconference series specifically addresses the concerns of employers,
enabling them to better help their employees going through the immigration
process. In March, attorneys at the Murthy Law Firm focused on changes
introduced to PERM Labor Certification and H1B Labor Condition Application
(LCA) forms by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Employers will experience
major changes when the new forms are required and with the DOL's new iCert portal for submission. It is important to understand changes that
have been made to the questions on the forms. Led by Attorney Sheela
Murthy, our attorneys will explain the new LCA Form 9035 and the PERM Form
9089. They will draw distinctions from the current versions, so that
employers will be apprised of how they must comply with program rules and
regulations.
©MurthyDotCom
Feb 04, 2009 Public Teleconference
Crossing the Bridge to Employment - F-1 Students and the Transition to H1B
Employment
The February
2009 teleconference presented by the Murthy Law Firm examined how employers
can bring on new foreign national employees who have not worked in H1B
status previously, or who are now graduating from U.S. universities. Our
attorneys discussed the different options that may be available for
employing a foreign national in F-1 status, upon his/her earning a U.S.
degree, as well as concerns regarding transition into the workforce. Led by
Attorney Sheela Murthy, the February 2009 Murthy Law Firm teleconference
discussed some of the requirements of Optional Practical Training (OPT), as
well as the OPT STEM extension option and the nuances that arise when a
company asks USCIS to change a foreign national's status in the H1B visa
program. Read more on this topic.
©MurthyDotCom
Jan 07, 2009 Corporate Teleconference
Making Your Business Work : Workforce
Reductions & Immigration Law Compliance
The first
teleconference of 2009 presented by the Murthy Law Firm focused
on strategies for employers and foreign national employees amidst
unfortunate workforce reductions. While the slowing economy is imposing
changes, it is important to follow the requirements under immigration law
regarding employment reduction and maintenance of status. Attorneys from the
Murthy Law Firm discussed how to prepare for and handle reductions in force
and other terminations in the immigration law context, both from the
employer and employee perspectives. Led by Attorney Sheela Murthy,
the January 2009 Murthy Law Firm Teleconference explained some of the
nuances and issues for which employers and employees should be watchful in
times of increased layoffs. Read more on this topic.
©MurthyDotCom
Dec 03, 2008 Corporate Teleconference
Beating the Cap & Winning the H1B Lotto -
When & How to File Your New H1B Petitions in April 2009
This teleconference
in our corporate series was on the subject of "Beating
the Cap & Winning the H1B Lotto - When & How to File Your New H1B Petitions
in April 2009." We at the Murthy Law Firm are already preparing H1B
Petitions for new workers to be filed in April 2009. Sheela Murthy was
joined by attorneys Eunhae Gohng and Khorzad Mehta of our firm, who focused
on some of the critical issues that need to be kept in mind when preparing
one's first H1B visa. The demand for H1Bs exceeds the supply for the U.S.
government's FY2009. What exactly is the H1B "cap?" How does a company
sponsor a foreign worker within the rules? What to do with a new worker who
might have a gap between the end of a student status and the start of H1B
status? These are some of the topics that were covered by our team.
Read more on this topic.
©MurthyDotCom
Nov 05, 2008 Corporate Teleconference
The
Mysteries of Mergers & Acquisitions :
Unraveling the Immigration Law's Requirements for Your Business & Employees
This teleconference
presented by the Murthy Law Firm focused on Mergers
and Acquisitions (M&A). With
rapid corporate changes increasingly common in the current economic climate,
the Murthy Law Firm dealt with on some of the key issues that arise in these
situations. While each M&A deal has individual traits, the due diligence
generally required can include examining I-9 forms and compliance, LCA
public access files, and the impact on the continuing employment of foreign
nationals. Attorneys at the Murthy Law Firm discussed some of the possible
immigration-related effects of different kinds of M&A transactions such as
mergers, asset purchases, and spin-offs. Our attorneys discussed why a
proactive approach to examining these matters can greatly benefit all
parties subject to corporate changes.
Read more on this topic.
©MurthyDotCom
Oct 08, 2008 Public Teleconference
Immigration in these Economic Times
The current state of the U.S. economy
has led to uncertainty among employers and employees alike. To address the
effect these turbulent times may have on foreign nationals and their
employers, and to explain and protect the interests of all parties concerned
to the extent allowed under law, we at the Murthy Law Firm will conduct a
special teleconference. Open to employers and employees, this FREE
teleconference will focus on employment and immigration options and the
provisions of the American Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act
(AC21).
©MurthyDotCom
Oct 01, 2008
Corporate
Teleconference
The ABCs of
H1Bs : Getting Back to the Basics of the H1B Visa
The October 2008 teleconference in our
monthly series, answered many of the basic questions employers have about
the H1B visa program. Companies interested in hiring professional workers
typically start their immigration planning with the H1B. Attorneys from the
Murthy Law Firm reviewed the essential concepts applied by USCIS when
looking at a business's petition for an H1B to employ a foreign national,
addressing topics like understanding what is a "specialty occupation," Labor
Condition Application requirements, wage requirements, degree requirements,
and Change of Status vs. Consular Notification. Our panel also discussed the
special issues facing companies in the IT consulting industry.
Read more on this topic.
©MurthyDotCom
Sep 03, 2008
Corporate
Teleconference
Form I-9
Compliance & Working with Immigration and Customs Enforce-ment
The September 2008
teleconference in this monthly series addressed helping businesses
proactively comply with the rules surrounding to the Form I-9, Employment
Eligibility Verification, completed by all newly-hired workers, and the
requirements relating to the employment of foreign nationals. These rules
are enforced by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), but may
also extend to a company's general compliance with the U.S. immigration
laws. Attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm
discussed events that might trigger an ICE investigation of a company's
compliance, as well as how a business can engage proactively in both fixing
and avoiding any problems. Our panel also discussed the kind of procedure
the government is required to follow and how to use an internal audit as a
tool to address problems and protect your business if investigated.
Read more on this topic.
©MurthyDotCom
Aug 06, 2008
Corporate
Teleconference
Compliance with the DOL's LCA Program
The August teleconference in our
monthly series focused on helping businesses proactively engaged in
compliance with the DOL's rules for Labor Condition Application (LCA)
program. Attorneys at the Murthy Law Firm discussed events that can trigger
a DOL audit or investigation of a company's compliance with the LCA program
rules, as well as how to repair and avoid any problems with the program.
Also discussed were reasons for investigations, procedures the government is
required to follow, and ways to use internal audits proactively to address
problems and protect your business in the case of an investigation.
Read more on this topic.
©MurthyDotCom
Jul 02, 2008
Corporate
Teleconference
USCIS E-Verify
Compliance
The July
teleconference addressed the Department of Homeland Security E-Verify
program. The Murthy Law Firm was pleased to host USCIS Management and
Program Analyst Gloria Aitken, who led this stakeholder meeting with
Attorney Sheela Murthy and others from the Murthy Law Firm. Ms. Aitken
reviewed current E-Verify policy, implementation, and compliance issues. This
information was designed to enhance the awareness of the rules, policies,
and laws that govern the process to help ensure transparent
understand-ing and compliance with the E-Verify program.
Read more on this topic.
©MurthyDotCom
Jun 04, 2008
Corporate
Teleconference
I-140 RFE -
Understanding & Responding to Common Problems Raised by the USCIS
The June
teleconference reviewed the current policy of the U.S. Citizenship &
Immigration Services (USCIS) towards issuing a Request for Evidence (RFE)
regarding Form I-140 Petition filed to sponsor a foreign worker for the
green card. The mechanics and mysteries of what USCIS asks when issuing the
RFE were explained, including how to address questions about a foreign
worker's credentials and the sponsoring company's financial situation. The
Murthy Law Firm used its experience preparing I-140 petitions to avoid the
RFE and rescuing cases from the threat of denial into recommendations
and insights for finishing the second stage of the green card process.
Read more on this topic.
©MurthyDotCom
May 07, 2008
Corporate
Teleconference
Demystifying the PERM
LC Process - The Basics of a Successful Green Card Case
Our May teleconference
reviewed the current PERM Labor Certification
process, the most common way to sponsor a foreign worker for
permanent residency, known as the "green card." The mechanics and mysteries
of the PERM process were explained, including how to present a properly
completed case to the U.S. Department of Labor with the mandatory
requirements completed to facilitate success. Based on our experience with
the PERM Labor Certifica- tion process, attorneys at the Murthy Law Firm
shared recommendations and insights for completing this complex stage
toward an employee's green card. Read more on this
topic.
©MurthyDotCom
Apr 02, 2008
Corporate
Teleconference
After the Cap -
Alternatives to H1Bs for Employers
Discussed in this month's
teleconference were the options open to employers who do not obtain enough
of the coveted H1B visas for their nonimmigrant employees for FY2009. We
helped employers understand their options for maintaining and augmenting
their nonimmigrant workforce using alternatives to H1B visas. We discussed a
number of other visa categories that permit the employment of foreign
nationals in the U.S. in 2008 and beyond. Read more
on this topic.
©MurthyDotCom
Mar 05, 2008
Corporate
Teleconference
Business Immigration :
Looking Back and Bracing for the Future!
Among the matters addressed in this teleconference
were: the H1B cap
and dire lack of adequate numbers; VisaGate, or employment-based priority
dates becoming available to many permanent resident seekers, and then to
everyone, and back and forth during the summer of 2007; the misnamed
substitution regulation, who can pay, labor certification expiration dates,
and more. Attorney Murthy also reported on her recent meeting with officials
at the U.S. Consulate in Chennai, India.
©MurthyDotCom
Feb 06, 2008 Corporate Teleconference
H1B Cap
Season - Fiscal Year 2009 (Part 2)
This teleconference in our monthly series
continued to address important matters regarding the filings of H1Bs, as well
as issues that arise after H1B applications are filed and approved. We
discussed Labor Conditions Application (LCA) requirements, compensation
for H1B workers - what may or may not be included in the compensation
package for H1B workers - the U.S. Department of Labor's public access record
requirements, and more.
©MurthyDotCom
Jan 09, 2008
Corporate
Teleconference
H1B Cap
Season - Fiscal Year 2009 (Part 1)
This teleconference in our monthly series to guide employers and HR managers and
for the benefit of their employees addressed important matters regarding the filing of H1Bs
for the fiscal year (FY) 2009 cap season, including: meeting the
requirements for filing, how the H1B cap works, the importance of planning
ahead, avoiding RFEs, and more.
©MurthyDotCom
Dec 03, 2007
Corporate
Teleconference
The Why, What, and How
of PERM Audits
This teleconference explored the subject of PERM
audits and how employers can prepare for them. Recently, the U.S. Department
of Labor (DOL) has increased the percentage of audits it conducts for PERM
Labor certifications. Attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm addressed some of the
more commonly raised issues, as
well as strategies to plan for and respond to audit
notifications. Read more on this topic.
©MurthyDotCom
Nov 07, 2007
Corporate
Teleconference
What Employers Should
Know After Filing I-485s in Jul/Aug 2007
This teleconference addressed some of the more
pressing questions employers had after filing I-485s in July / August 2007
for many of their employees. Many individuals had the opportunity to file their I-485
Applications for Adjustment, based on their employment-based (EB) cases. Visa retrogression
had previously prevented such filings for many of these individuals, and the
opportunity for employees to file their I-485s was unexpected. In light of
these events, employers had many questions concerning the impact the
filings of so many employees may have had on
their businesses. We at the
Murthy Law Firm addressed these matters in November's teleconference.
©MurthyDotCom
Oct 03, 2007
Corporate
Teleconference
Employer Expenses &
Compliance with DOL Regulation
Attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm tackled many of the concerns
faced by employers and HR managers in our first teleconference in this
series. We
provided practical advice on how to save costs in compliance with the DOL
regulation, while still helping employees. Some areas of discussion included:
refining job
descriptions and/or developing clear verticals for specific positions, timing LC filings to
maximize cost savings for the employer, and learning to identify
a "PERM" (i.e. labor certification) process as opposed to a "non-PERM"
related process. |
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Attorneys from our firm during a
recent
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