Answer Normally, one can apply for a visa "stamp" in any country, outside the U.S., where one is physically present. However, check the consulate's website before traveling, as some have unique rules for third-country nationals. Also, if you apply at a consulate other than the one...
Answer Yes, the new I-539 form requires the payment of a biometric fee, and the taking of biometrics prior to approval. (20.May.2019)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...
Answer One in this situation generally would be in H1B status until the H-4 is approved, or until the H1B expires. Until one of these events occurs, the individual normally would be able to continue working for the H1B employer. (20.May.2019)In frequent sessions of our Chat,...
The Trump Administration has released a memorandum that is ostensibly designed to combat "the large numbers of aliens who overstay their period of lawful admission… ." The memo focuses primarily on those who overstay B-1/B-2 business / visitor status and those who overstay following admission...
Answer It is a common misunderstanding that the "33-day" period mentioned in a denial notice is a mandatory response deadline. In fact, this is the deadline to file an optional motion to reopen or to appeal a denial. It is not mandatory, does not provide any...
Answer Under the contiguous territory rule, one generally can go to Canada or Mexico using automatic visa revalidation ("AVR") for up to 30 days if one's I-94 is unexpired. A valid visa stamp is NOT required to reenter the U.S. However, one cannot use "AVR" if...
Answer Unfortunately, there is no automatic extension of work authorization upon filing the H-4 EAD extension. One must wait for the new EAD, if the existing one has expired, and is not permitted to work. (29.Apr.2019)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior...
Answer One who is in H-4 status, without an EAD, is not permitted to be employed. Self-employment, or opening one's own business almost certainly would be considered unauthorized employment. (29.Apr.2019)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the...
Beginning in May 2019, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will begin issuing form I-94 arrival/departure records with alphanumeric "numbers" (i.e., composed of letters and numbers). This change will have no impact on the validity of I-94 cards and numbers issued prior to the...
Due to a system error, certain I-797B approval notices, recently issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Vermont Service Center (VSC), fail to list the name of the first beneficiary (alphabetically, by surname) in instances where there are multiple beneficiaries. In response to...
