Answer The pilot program that resumed domestic visa renewals ended in early 2024. At the time, the U.S. Department of State indicated that they expected to bring it back, and even expand eligibility to more nonimmigrant visa applicants.In May 2025, several members of Congress sent a...
Answer No. F-1 students who timely file for a STEM OPT extension still receive up to 180 days of automatic employment authorization and valid F-1 status while USCIS processes the application. The 29.Oct.2025 rule only impacts certain EAD renewal categories and does not change the STEM...
Answer Yes, as long as the familial relationship was formed before your I-485 application is approved, your spouse normally can file as your derivative. (10.Dec.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access...
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced 03.Dec.2025 that it will expand mandatory social media screening to include all H1B visa “stamp” applicants and their H-4 dependent family members, effective 15.Dec.2025. The expansion extends an online presence review requirement that previously applied only to student...
During the holiday season, as we approach the end of 2025 and embark on the new road to a new year next month, it is time for us at the Murthy Law Firm (the “Firm”) to reflect on our history and purpose and why we...
USCIS has updated its Policy Manual to reduce maximum EAD validity for numerous categories, including refugees, asylees, TPS holders, parolees, and applicants for asylum or adjustment. Most will drop from 5 years to 18 months, and some to 1 year. More frequent vetting, more renewals....
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced new policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on how country-specific facts and circumstances may impact the adjudication of discretionary benefit requests. Presidential Proclamation 10949 The new guidance follows the framework of the 04.Jun.2025 Presidential Proclamation 10949, "Restricting...
The U.S. Department of State will expand online presence reviews to all H-1B and H-4 applicants starting 15.Dec.2025. Applicants must set all social media profile privacy settings to “public” for the vetting process. More here....
Answer Yes, generally speaking, the case will remain in the premium processing track until it is approved or denied. The USCIS normally will issue a final decision – or, less likely, issue a second RFE or a notice of intent to deny (NOID) – within 15...
Answer No. Being outside the United States normally would not carry an added risk of a person being stripped of U.S. citizenship. (02.Dec.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs...
