08 Oct 2018

I am in H1B status and have an approved I-140. I plan to move back to India for the time being. Will I still be able to use my I-140 in the future?

Answer Yes, an approved I-140 can be converted to "consular processing" by the employer, and later used to obtain an immigrant visa and "green card," as long as the employer is still offering the same job. (08.Oct.2018)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other...

27 Sep 2018

Meet the Murthy Law Firm: Chris Drinan

The dedicated team of attorneys, paralegals, and support staff at the Murthy Law Firm is integral to our success. Day after day, they help to fulfill the dreams of our clients through their integrity, diligence, and commitment to excellence. To introduce our readers to the...

24 Sep 2018

Is it possible for someone on an F-1 OPT visa to open their own business and work for themselves if that business is in their field of study?

Answer In general, self-employment is permissible during the initial 12-month period of OPT. Self-employment normally is not permissible during a STEM OPT extension, however. (24.Sep.2018)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law in real time. For...

24 Sep 2018

My husband’s H1B extension was filed for premium processing and my H-4 extension was included with his filing. His H1B was approved within a couple of weeks, but my case is still pending. Is this normal?

Answer This is not common, but it does happen occasionally. The USCIS typically will adjudicate the accompanying H-4 application quickly when the H1B petition is filed for premium processing, but this is done as a courtesy and is not required. (24.Sep.2018)In frequent sessions of our Chat,...

24 Sep 2018

After I filed my I-485, the cutoff dates retrogressed. Once my priority date becomes current again, do I need to take any action for the USCIS to resume adjudicating my application?

Answer If the I-485 is pending, the USCIS should resume processing automatically when the priority date is close to being current. Normally, no action by the applicant is required. (24.Sep.2018)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the...