The Fourth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals recently ruled in Levya Martinez v. Sessions, that a theft conviction under Maryland law is not a "crime involving moral turpitude" (CIMT). A conviction of a CIMT can have a serious impact on a foreign national's eligibility for...
Answer Yes, international travel generally would have no impact on a pending (or approved) I-140. (20.Aug.2018)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 FAQs here. Copyright...
Answer In order to change from H-4 to F-1, one would need to obtain an I-20 from the university's designated school official (DSO), then apply for a change of status (form I-539) with the USCIS. Keep in mind that one must be in valid status both...
Answer If one has an approved I-140 that is current valid and is maintaining valid H1B status, then the H-4 spouse in this situation should be able to apply for an H-4 EAD immediately. (20.Aug.2018)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys...
Answer An individual in F-1 status without an EAD typically can only engage in passive investments in the U.S. If you are uncertain whether an investment would be treated as active vs. passive you should consult with an attorney. (20.Aug.2018)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela...
This afternoon, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updated its STEM OPT webpage to clarify that STEM OPT workers can be placed offsite if certain requirements are met. The update also alters certain reporting requirements for F-1 students working pursuant to STEM OPT and...
As the Trump Administration continues to implement anti-immigration policies steeped in fear and xenophobia, communities across the nation are joining forces to rally in support of immigrants and to keep the American dream alive. Since Trump took office just a year and a half ago,...
Charles Oppenheim, Chief of the Visa Control and Reporting Division for the U.S. Department of State (DOS), provides visa bulletin explanations and predictions most months. This month, Mr. Oppenheim provides updated predictions for fiscal year 2019 (FY19), which begins on October 1, 2018. Employment-Based, First Preference...
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a warning in relation to a recent trend in telephone scams. The DHS warns that criminals are posing as government representatives, calling intended victims, and asking for funds to be sent via electronic transfer to resolve...
Answer At land borders, it's fairly common for the passport to not be stamped. This typically would not be a cause for concern. (13.Aug.2018)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law in real time. For details...
