... However, I would like to transfer to another program and apply for reinstatement as a back-up plan. Can I pursue both of these courses of action? Are there any downsides? Answer It is understandable that you want to increase your chances of being able to maintain...
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released the latest charts detailing the number of employment-based (EB) adjustment-of-status applications (form I-485) that are pending with the agency. The charts break down the number of pending I-485s by country of chargeability, EB category, and priority date...
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the April 2016 Visa Bulletin this afternoon. In the employment-based categories, there is no change from last month in the dates for filing (DF) chart. As for the final action (FA) chart, the movement is extremely limited.The employment-based, second...
This morning, the final version of the revised STEM optional practical training (OPT) rule was unveiled. It will be published in the Federal Register on Friday, March 11, 2016 and will go into effect on May 10th. The rule will allow STEM OPT extensions of up...
If a foreign national applies for permanent residence status based on marriage to a U.S. citizen, and the marriage is less than two years in duration at the time the green card is approved, the foreign national will be issued conditional permanent resident status valid...
Beginning in the 19th century, over 300,000 Chinese immigrants, most of them men, came to the United States in search of work to support their families back home. They toiled in mines, factories, and on farms, enduring backbreaking labor and dangerous conditions. Many of them...
Answer Generally speaking, a person in H1B status should only work in a volunteer position if it is one that would ordinarily be filled by a volunteer. For instance, volunteering for a charity organization or to help at your child's school may be permissible. But, other...
Answer Yes, generally speaking, an H-4 EAD can be requested while an H1B amendment is in process. (07.Mar.2016)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law in real time. For details on chat participation, click here.Access more...
Answer Unlike the H1B category, the L-1 category does not allow for extensions based upon a pending green card case. In these situations, it may be necessary to try to switch to a different status, such as H1B. (07.Mar.2016)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy...
Answer If these are prizes with little or no cash value (e.g., trophies), that would be fine. If there are actual prizes of value, the answer may depend on the situation. Before entering in the competition, you should speak with an immigration attorney to discuss the...
