19 Oct 2016

U.S. Consulates in India Increase Availability of Visa Appointments

USTraveldocs.com, which handles visa appointment services for U.S. embassies and consulates, has issued a public notice, advising stakeholders of a large, temporary increase in visa appointment availability. The notice states: The U.S. embassy and the four U.S. consulates in India have made thousands of extra visa...

10 Oct 2016

Can I start working after USCIS notification of EAD card production, but before receiving the physical card?

Answer This is generally not be possible, because one in this situation is normally unable to properly complete an I-9 form. (10.Oct.2016)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law in real time. For details on chat...

22 Sep 2016

Immigration Basics: Government Agencies Involved with U.S. Immigration

In order to assist MurthyDotCom readers in their navigation of the complex immigration maze, this brief outline describes the main government entities involved in the immigration process of foreign nationals coming to the United States. The immigration process includes the granting of immigration benefits, as...

19 Sep 2016

My H1B extension and my spouse’s H-4 extension are pending. Can my spouse file for H-4 EAD while the H-4 extension is pending?

Answer An H-4 EAD application may be filed while the H1B and H-4 extensions are still pending. But, the H-4 EAD cannot be approved until the H-4 extension is approved. And, the H-4 extension generally will not be approved until the H1B extension is granted. (19.Sep.2016)In...

09 Sep 2016

I initially came to the U.S. in H-4 status as a dependent of my spouse. I completed a bachelor’s degree in computer science, and decided to apply for admission to an MBA program. …

... Once admitted, I changed to F-1 status and completed that degree. I applied and was authorized for the 12-month optional practical training period, which ends in a few weeks. I would like to apply for a 24-month OPT extension, based on my bachelor's degree...

15 Aug 2016

I have a valid H1B, but am in India and do not have a project in the U.S. I also have an H-4 visa stamp. Can I come to the U.S. on my H-4? What should I expect from the immigration officers at the POE?

Answer If the H-4 visa stamp is valid and unexpired, it could be used to reenter the U.S., as long as one is still married to the primary beneficiary in H1B status. The POE officers need proof of H-4 eligibility, such as a copy of the...