15 Oct 2025

I am in L-1 status and want to file an I-485 application for my employment-based green card. However, my job requires frequent international travel. Will this be a problem?

Answer If you are maintaining valid L-1 status and have an unexpired L-1 visa stamp in your passport, you generally may travel internationally while your I-485 application is pending. The only issue with such travel typically would be that, if you also applied for advance parole...

08 Oct 2025

We submitted a premium processing request with my H1B petition. The USCIS then issued an RFE on my case. When my employer responds to the RFE, will it still be reviewed using premium processing?

Answer Yes. Ordinarily, 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 business...

03 Sep 2025

Once I port my priority date from company A to Company B, does company A’s PERM application automatically become void?

Answer Priority date retention happens at the I-140 stage. Requesting retention of a priority date does not void or otherwise invalidate the original I-140’s PERM application. If Company A chooses not to withdraw the I-140, it continues to remain valid for immigration purposes, even if that...

27 Aug 2025

I was on H1B and then changed my status to F-1. I now would like to go back to H1B. Can I start working immediately upon getting the receipt number from the USCIS?

Answer Because this petition is requesting a change of status, and not simply a change of employer while already in H1B status, it is necessary to wait for the H1B petition approval before starting employment again. (27.Aug.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies...

27 Aug 2025

An RFE was issued on my I-140. If it is denied, can I still use my approved PERM to file with a new employer?

Answer No. An approved PERM labor certification is employer-specific and normally cannot be transferred. The new employer would need to file their own PERM application. (27.Aug.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here....

20 Aug 2025

My employer just obtained the prevailing wage for my PERM and is about to start recruitment. Am I allowed to travel?  

Answer Neither the PERM labor certification process nor I-140 petition imposes any travel limitations on the sponsored employee. Travel considerations typically become a concern when the employee is pursuing the actual green card application process. (20.Aug.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the...