... My initial 12-month OPT will end next month, but I am still working on my thesis. Do I need to complete my thesis before I may apply for the STEM OPT extension? Answer An F-1 student who has completed all of his/her program requirements, but for...
Answer Generally, an F-1 student is eligible for one 12-month OPT period per each educational level. The question is whether your JD degree should be considered a higher educational level than your master's degree. Since this is not very clear, given that JD degrees do not...
Answer U.S. citizen children cannot sponsor a parent for a green card until the child reaches the age of 21. The fact that the child is disabled would typically not create new avenues for the parent to apply for a green card. (31.Aug.2015)In frequent sessions of...
Answer If your priority date is current, you can file the I-485 application and apply for advance parole travel authorization at the same time. (This, of course, is assuming that the job offer is still valid, etc.) You must wait for the AP to be approved...
Answer There is no grace period for H1B. You only remain in valid nonimmigrant status while you are working for your H1B employer. If your H1B for your new employer had been filed prior to the termination of your H1B employment then you could have remained...
Answer If you are referring to eligibility to file the I-485 application based on the priority dates on the visa bulletin, the USCIS goes by country of birth, not country of citizenship. (31.Aug.2015)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance...
Answer Yes, a company can start a GC for someone on F-1/OPT. This does not disrupt the F-1/OPT status. But, for people from India, it is normally going to be necessary to change into H1B or some other work authorized status at some point to bridge...
Answer The O-1 category requires demonstration of extraordinary ability. This is a high standard, and has to be proven by extensive documentation of the qualifications, etc. It is not enough to simply be very experienced or good at one's profession. There would have to be some...
Answer The GC case is company-specific and job-specific. So, if the case is only at the I-140 stage, the case will end when the job and/or job offer ends. The H1B can be extended via a new employer based upon the I-140 / no visa number...
Answer This isn't a simple question. The change of status from B-1 to F-1 is disfavored. That is why people cannot attend school while that request is pending - unlike other COS to F-1 requests. Further, one cannot enter the U.S. on B-1 with the intention...
