07 Aug 2017

I have an approved I-140 with Employer A, and I am about to complete six years on H1B. Can I file for an H1B change of employer / extension with Employer B, even if the new H1B position is completely different from the I-140 position?

Answer In general, an approved I-140 can be used to extend H1B status beyond 6 years, regardless of the job or employer. (07.Aug.2017)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law in real time. For details on...

04 Aug 2017

I have just graduated with a bachelor’s degree in political science in F-1 status. I would like to continue my education and get a master’s degree in my field. Do I need to obtain a new I-20 for this study?

Answer You must inform your DSO of your plans so that you can maintain valid F-1 status. Your DSO must issue a new I-20, based on your admission to the new program, and initiate the change-of-level procedure in SEVIS while you are still in your 60-day...

02 Aug 2017

NewsFlash! Trump, GOP Senators Propose Bill to Modify Immigration System, Slash Visa Numbers

Today, President Trump announced his support for a bill proposed by Republican Senators Tom Cotton (AR) and David Perdue (GA) that, if passed, would make massive changes to the U.S. immigration system. The proposal would replace the current employment-based immigration system with a merit-based system....

31 Jul 2017

I have about one year of H1B time remaining, but the USCIS recently granted me a three-year H1B extension. Am I allowed to remain in H1B status for the extra two years?

Answer The USCIS sometimes inadvertently issues an approval for a longer duration than is legally allowed. In general, one should not rely on these USCIS errors, because the USCIS generally will not consider themselves bound by their own mistakes. Assuming you do not qualify for the...