03 Sep 2025

I used only 3 months of OPT after completing my first master’s degree. I am considering enrolling for a second master’s. If I do this, would I be eligible to get the rest of my OPT period once I complete that program?

Answer The OPT time does not work like H1B time. In most circumstances, once you use any portion of your OP, the rest is ‘use it or lose it.’ (02.Sep.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE...

03 Sep 2025

Annual Limit for EB2 Visa Category Reached

DOS and USCIS have issued all available immigrant visas for the EB2 category for fiscal year 2025. The annual limits will reset with the start of the 2026 fiscal year on 01.Oct.2025....

29 Aug 2025

USCIS Phasing Out Paper Checks & Money Orders

USCIS will now accept ACH payments with new Form G-1650. Paper checks & money orders will be accepted until 28.Oct.2025. After that, only ACH debit or credit card payments will be allowed....

28 Aug 2025

USCIS Updates Guidance on Discretionary Factors in Immigration Benefit Adjudications

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published policy guidance on 19.Aug.2025, updating the factors officers may consider when exercising discretion in certain immigration benefit requests. The update emphasizes negative discretionary weight for applicants with connections to “anti-American” or terrorist organizations. Understanding Discretionary Analysis Many immigration benefit...

27 Aug 2025

I was on H1B and then changed my status to F-1. I now would like to go back to H1B. Can I start working immediately upon getting the receipt number from the USCIS?

Answer Because this petition is requesting a change of status, and not simply a change of employer while already in H1B status, it is necessary to wait for the H1B petition approval before starting employment again. (27.Aug.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies...

27 Aug 2025

An RFE was issued on my I-140. If it is denied, can I still use my approved PERM to file with a new employer?

Answer No. An approved PERM labor certification is employer-specific and normally cannot be transferred. The new employer would need to file their own PERM application. (27.Aug.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here....