16 Jul 2020

NewsFlash! DOS Announces Limited Exceptions to Trump’s Order that Targets Nonimmigrant Workers

Today, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced a short list of exceptions to President Trump's April 22 and June 22, 2020 executive orders that prevent admission of certain foreign nationals. Notably, the announcement excepts "… spouses and children of certain visa class holders, such...

15 Jul 2020

NewsFlash: H1B and H-4 Visa Applicants Sue Trump Administration Over President’s Order that Targets Nonimmigrant Workers

A large group of H1B and H-4 visa applicants have filed the first lawsuit against the Trump Administration's June 22, 2020, proclamation that prohibits the admission of certain nonimmigrants. Importantly, the lawsuit not only requests the court to rule on each individual's visa application, but...

15 Jul 2020

When is the absolute last point in time that a spouse can join on I-485 for employment-based green card?

Answer To be included as a "dependent" on an employment-based I-485 petition, one must be MARRIED before the lead applicant receives approval of the I-485. (13.Jul.2020)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here....

13 Jul 2020

NewsFlash! Consulates May Begin Phased Resumption of Visa Services, Effective July 15th

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has announced via Twitter that "[b]eginning July 15, US Embassies and Consulates may begin the phased resumption of routine visa services depending on local conditions." No further details have been provided.As previously reported, the consulates are not expected to...

08 Jul 2020

My mother’s I-94 is expiring July 14, 2020. Due to the uncertainty of COVID, I have applied for her extension and have received the receipt notice from the USCIS. Does this mean she can stay here until it is safe for her to return home or we hear the result?

Answer In general, when one has timely filed for an extension of status, one is permitted to remain in the United States until a decision is received from USCIS. This is considered to be a period of "lawful" stay. (06.Jun.2020)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide...

01 Jul 2020

Now that Trump has signed an executive order to suspend approval of green cards for those outside of the U.S., can we still apply for I-130 for parents who are in India?

Answer The Executive Order only prohibits the issuance of visas at consulates. It does not prevent the adjudication of I-130 petitions, and these should progress normally, as far as we know. (01.Jul.2020)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on...