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15 Sep 2026

I have an arrest or criminal record and will need to apply for a nonimmigrant visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad. What should I consider before traveling?

Answer Any arrest, charge, or conviction can complicate a nonimmigrant visa application, although a criminal record does not automatically make every applicant inadmissible. The result depends on the offense, criminal statute, disposition, sentence, and other facts. If a criminal ground of inadmissibility applies, the applicant may...

11:07 / Consulates / FAQs / For Families / For Individuals / Homeland Security / Nonimmigrant Family / Student / Worker
08 Sep 2026

If I qualify for transition protection under the new F-1 fixed-period-of-admission rule scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026, what could happen if I travel internationally after that date?

Answer If the new rule takes effect as scheduled, an F-1 student who departs the United States after September 15, 2026, generally may be readmitted under the new fixed-period-of-admission framework. If admitted, the student may receive an I-94 with a specific admit-until date rather than D/S....

09:32 / FAQs / For Individuals / Student
01 Sep 2026

I am currently in F-1 status with an I-94 marked D/S. Under the new F-1 fixed-period-of-admission rule scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026, will I automatically receive a new I-94 expiration date on that date?

Answer Generally, no. Under the new rule's transition provisions, an F-1 student who is maintaining valid duration-of-status admission when the rule takes effect on September 15, 2026, ordinarily will not automatically receive a new date-specific I-94 on that date. However, this transition protection will be limited....

11:22 / FAQs / For Individuals / Student
25 Aug 2026

Under the new F-1 fixed-period-of-admission rule scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026, what should I do if I need more time to complete my F-1 program after my I-94 expires?

Answer Under the new rule, an F-1 student who needs additional time generally may request an extension of stay from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This may require a Form I-20 issued or endorsed by the designated school official, a timely extension application, the...

14:12 / FAQs / For Individuals / Student
18 Aug 2026

After the new F-1 fixed-period-of-admission rule, which is scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026, takes effect, will a valid Form I-20 be enough to allow me to remain in the United States?

Answer No. Under the new F-1 fixed-period-of-admission rule scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026, the Form I-20 and the I-94 will serve different purposes. An F-1 student admitted under the new rule will need to maintain a valid Form I-20 and comply with all...

11:21 / FAQs / For Individuals / Student
16 Apr 2026

I am an F-1 student in a hybrid program that mixes online classes with required in-person sessions. Can this type of program satisfy the full course of study requirement?

Answer It likely can, as long as the in-person component is genuinely required, not optional. (14.Apr.2026)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here.  Copyright © 2026, MURTHY LAW FIRM. All...

07:17 / FAQs / For Individuals / Student
11 Feb 2026

I am currently on OPT and my employer will be entering me in the H1B lottery. I am presently earning the equivalent of a Wage Level 1 salary, but the employer has agreed to increase it to Wage Level 2 for my H1B lottery case. Does the employer have to start paying the higher salary now?

Answer Generally speaking, the H1B wage does not have to be paid until and unless the foreign national is granted H1B status. There is no requirement that the H1B salary be paid at the time the person enters the H1B lottery.  (11.Feb.2026)Sheela Murthy and other senior...

06:03 / FAQs / For Employers / For Individuals / Student / Worker