02 Feb 2023

I have less than one year of H1B time remaining, but the USCIS recently approved my H1B extension for three years. Am I allowed to remain in H1B status for the extra two years?

Answer The USCIS has been known to occasionally approve an H1B for a longer duration than is legally allowed. As a general rule, one should not rely on a USCIS error, as the USCIS generally will not consider themselves bound by their own mistakes. Assuming you...

02 Feb 2023

R-1 Visa Requirements

Congress created the R-1 visa classification to allow religious organizations to bring different categories of religious workers from affiliated religious organizations overseas to staff organizations in the United States for a temporary period. A basic overview of the R-1 nonimmigrant visa category is provided here...

26 Jan 2023

I have a valid H-4 visa stamp in my passport. I am applying for an H1B stamp in a few weeks. If the H1B stamp is denied, can I still travel to the U.S. on my H-4 stamp?

Answer If an H1B visa ‘stamp’ application is denied, one would ordinarily be able to continue using an existing H-4 visa stamp. However, consulates do occasionally cancel valid visas, even though they are not required to do so. (19.Jan.2023)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance...

26 Jan 2023

After completing my master’s degree in Computer Engineering, I worked on OPT for a while, and then switched to H1B. If I enroll in an MBA program now, will I be eligible for OPT again after I graduate?

Answer A person typically qualifies for a new period of OPT after each educational level. The "master's" period of OPT would be exhausted after completing the Computer Engineering degree. So, a new period of OPT would not be available based on the completion of an MBA...