22 Dec 2025

Many years ago, I worked in H1B status for less than six months. I did not like the employer, so I returned to India. I am now back in the U.S. in H-4 status. If I want to again work in H1B status, do I need to go through the lottery?

Answer If a person has been counted against the H1B cap, they normally work in H1B status for a maximum of six years. If the individual has not utilized the full six years of H1B time, an employer typically can file an H1B petition on the...

22 Dec 2025

USCIS Hold on Asylum and Benefit Applications from High-Risk Countries

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued a policy memorandum, implementing indefinite policy changes to the processing of asylum applications and benefit requests from certain countries. The policy directs USCIS personnel to place holds on certain pending applications and conduct comprehensive reviews of...

17 Dec 2025

I’ve had my green card for four months and my company wants me to leave the United States for an extended assignment abroad. Can I file an N-470 application to preserve my residence?

Answer Among other requirements, an N-470 application requires that the applicant was present in the U.S. for an uninterrupted year as a lawful permanent resident. (16.Dec.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here....

05 Dec 2025

DOS to Review Social Media Account of All H1B and H-4 Visa Applicants

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...

03 Dec 2025

My L-1 petition was filed using premium processing, and an RFE was issued. My employer just submitted the RFE response. Will that also be reviewed using premium processing?

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...