19 Aug 2024

Visa Limitations Reached

The DOS has announced that the visa limits have been reached for EB3 and EB5 (Unreserved) for fiscal year 2024. Although neither USCIS nor the consulates can approve a green card and/or issue a visa in these categories until 01Oct24, you still can file your...

16 Aug 2024

NewsFlash! Filing Guide Released for Parole-in-Place Program for Undocumented Spouses of U.S. Citizens

UPDATE: See NewsFlash! Federal Judge Orders Temporary Halt to Parole-in-Place Program, Posted 27.Aug.2024Today, the Biden Administration released a filing guide for form I-131F, which is the new electronic form that soon will be used by certain undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to apply...

16 Aug 2024

Family Unity Program Update

USCIS will accept applications for the parole-in-place program to promote family unity starting on 8/19/24. Applicants will submit Form I-131F, which will be available online only. For the basics of the program, read this article....

16 Aug 2024

Premature I-485 Approvals

Your priority date must be current when your I-485 is approved! Make sure your green card was not issued prematurely to avoid future complications. Learn more in this MurthyDotCom article....

14 Aug 2024

I have an H1B petition valid through 15.Dec.2024, and my extension with the same employer was approved through 2027. I am applying for a visa stamp next month and plan to return to the U.S. in November. Will the consulate issue me a visa through 15.Dec.2024, or will they issue it through 2027, based on my extension?

Answer On the DS-160, there is an option to include information regarding a second I-797 approval notice. Generally speaking, in this situation, one should include both approvals in the DS-160, and request during the interview that the visa be issued for the longer duration. (14.Aug.2024)Sheela Murthy...

14 Aug 2024

Many years ago, my U.S. citizen brother filed an I-130 petition for me. At the time, I was working in H1B status. But eventually, I got tired of waiting and left the U.S. I have just learned that my priority date soon will become current. What is the next step I should take to apply for a green card?

Answer If your brother’s I-130 indicated that you would apply for adjustment of status in the U.S., he should file a form I-824 to have the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) transfer it to the National Visa Center (NVC). If the I-130 indicated you would...

14 Aug 2024

I have an approved I-140 and my I-485 has been pending for more than 180 days. I understand that I am allowed to port my case to a same-or-similar position. Is this allowed for a position where I would be self-employed?

Answer Yes, if the position meets the standard AC21 requirements, it is feasible to port one's case to a position that involves self-employment. Before doing so, however, it probably would be a good idea to discuss this with an attorney. (14.Aug.2024)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys...

13 Aug 2024

Changing Your Green Card Process

Wondering how to change your green card process from I-485 Adjustment of Status to Consular Processing? Murthy Law Firm explains the basics, but it’s best to contact us to discuss your case!...