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08 Jun 2023

I was working in H1B status and then moved to H-4. I am now considering a change back to H1B status. If I do this, can I still use the same H1B visa stamp in my passport for purposes of travel? It does not expire until the end of the year.

Answer Ordinarily, a change of status from H1B to H-4 would not impact the validity of the H1B visa "stamp" in one's passport. If the individual leaves the U.S. and wishes to return in H1B status, it typically would be possible to present the approved H1B...

07:38 / FAQs / For Families / Nonimmigrant Family / Worker
01 Jun 2023

I am on F-1 and my husband is on H1B. I am applying for a change of status to H-4. Do I have to continue my F-1 studies until the change of status is approved?

Answer Typically, there is no requirement for the F-1 student to remain in school once an application to change status to H-4 is properly filed.  (01.Jun.2023)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here....

16:59 / F-1 / FAQs / For Families / For Individuals / Student
01 Jun 2023

I was laid off last week and plan on leaving the U.S. before my grace period ends. If I use the full 60 days, will that be used against me next time I apply for a visa?

Answer It seems unlikely that an immigration officer would take issue with a person using the full 60-day grace period.  (01.Jun.2023)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 ©...

16:54 / FAQs / For Individuals / Worker
24 May 2023

Now that nearly all the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and flexibilities have been eliminated, is it still possible to apply for a visa at a U.S. consulate that is not in your home country?

Answer Many, if not most U.S. consular posts accept third-country national visa applicants. Some, however, do significantly limit which third-country nationals qualify. If a consular post has any restrictions on visa applications by third-country nationals, this information typically can be found on the consulate's website. (24.May.2023)Sheela...

17:25 / Consulates / FAQs / For Individuals / Travel
24 May 2023

I am in H1B status and my I-140 was just approved. My wife has been working for a U.S. company from India, and now wishes to apply for an H-4 EAD. Is it possible for her to apply from India?

Answer Unfortunately, in order to apply for an H-4 EAD, the individual normally must be physically in the United States when the application is filed. It is, however, typically possible to leave the U.S. while the EAD application is pending. (24.May.2023)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys...

17:23 / FAQs / For Families / For Individuals / Nonimmigrant Family / Travel / Worker
24 May 2023

I am in H1B status and have an approved I-140. I own home and installed a shed in my backyard. My neighbor is threatening to sue, claiming that the shed violates local zoning laws, is encroaching on her property, etc. I believe my neighbor is completely mistaken, but, if she sues and somehow wins, is there any chance this could harm my current status or future green card case?

Answer A civil lawsuit generally would have no impact on a person's H1B status or green card application.  (24.May.2023)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 © 2023, MURTHY...

17:19 / FAQs / For Individuals / Resident / Worker
16 May 2023

In 2020, my I-140 was approved for a position as a Senior Engineer. My employer recently promoted me to Engineering Manager. Does the company need to file a new PERM case for me?

Answer If there has been a material change to the nature of the position (as described on the ETA9089 form) that typically would require a new PERM labor certification and I-140 petition for that new position. Given that you have an approved I-140, however, you should...

07:58 / Employment Based / FAQs / For Employers / For Individuals / Resident
16 May 2023

I recently married a green card holder, and my husband is getting ready to sponsor me for a green card. I was on H1B status, but just got laid off. Does this prevent me from filing my I-485 application based on the I-130 my husband is filing?

Answer Assuming you are in your 60-day grace period, being laid off would generally not impact your ability to file your I-485 based on the I-130 petition filed by your husband. (16.May.2023)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on...

07:55 / Family Based / FAQs / For Families / For Individuals / Immigrant Family / Resident / Worker
16 May 2023

I recently entered the U.S. using my advance parole document. Can my wife now enter in H-4 status?

Answer Unless the principal spouse is in valid H1B status, the dependent spouse typically cannot enter in H-4 status. (16.May.2023)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 © 2023,...

07:51 / FAQs / For Families / For Individuals / Nonimmigrant Family / Travel / Worker