25 Sep 2024

I was arrested and charged with shoplifting. My defense attorney said that if I agree to plead guilty and stay on probation for 1 year, my guilty plea will be set aside at the end of my probation, and I will have no conviction. I am in H-4 status and am getting ready to apply for a green card. Should I be concerned about my record?

Answer You should consult with a knowledgeable immigration attorney about possible immigration consequences of your criminal record. Although you may have no conviction under the state law as a result of your successful probation, you still are likely to have a conviction for the purposes of...

11 Sep 2024

If I have a PERM case with an I-140 approved in EB2, can I then use that case to file an I-140 in EB3 even if the labor certification has expired?

Answer In general, yes, this is permissible. There is a USCIS memo that says, as long as one I-140 petition was filed within the validity period of the labor certification, another I-140 petition can be filed. (11.Sep.2024)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies...

28 Aug 2024

My employer is sponsoring me for a PERM position that requires prior work experience. Can I use experience gained with a foreign employer to qualify for the position?

Answer Typically, yes, it is possible to use work experience gained abroad, assuming the experience was related to the position. (28.Aug.2024)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 ©...

14 Aug 2024

I have an approved I-140 and my I-485 has been pending for more than 180 days. I understand that I am allowed to port my case to a same-or-similar position. Is this allowed for a position where I would be self-employed?

Answer Yes, if the position meets the standard AC21 requirements, it is feasible to port one's case to a position that involves self-employment. Before doing so, however, it probably would be a good idea to discuss this with an attorney. (14.Aug.2024)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys...

24 Jul 2024

My employer filed an I-140 for me, which is currently pending. I have only spent about 60 days in total in the U.S. since the I-140 was filed. Is there a rule that I must complete at least 180 days in the U.S. in order for the I-140 to be approved?

Answer No, there is no minimum amount of time you must be in the U.S. before an employer may file an I-140 for you, or before the I-140 can be approved. In fact, there is no requirement that the individual be in the U.S. at all...

10 Jul 2024

I am currently on H1B status. A good friend of mine owns a business, and he has offered to have his business file a PERM case for me. Is this allowed?

Answer Generally speaking, the fact that you are friends with the owner of a company would not prevent that company from filing a PERM case for you. Assuming the company has a position available for you, and otherwise meets the basic requirements, yes, it typically is...