26 Feb 2018

My H-4 extension is currently pending, and my spouse’s I-140 was just approved. Can I apply for an H-4 EAD now, or do I need to wait for the H-4 extension to be approved?

Answer An H-4 spouse typically can apply for the H-4 EAD at any time, based on the H1B holder's I-140 approval. If the H-4 extension is currently pending, you can provide evidence of the pending case and request that the USCIS approve the H-4 EAD based...

16 Feb 2018

Can I travel on F-1 during cap gap OPT?

Answer In order to travel in F-1 status during the cap-gap period, your H1B petition has to be approved before your departure. In addition, you should return before October 1st, when your H1B employment is scheduled to begin.If you leave the U.S. while your H1B petition...

12 Feb 2018

Can a person with an H-4 EAD work for two different companies at the same time?

Answer In general, yes, the H-4 EAD is unrestricted, meaning that it is not tied to a particular employer. It can be used for multiple employers, or even for self-employment. (12.Feb.2018)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies...

12 Feb 2018

I am applying for an H-4 extension of status and an H-4 EAD renewal, but my passport expires in five months. Can the USCIS approve the extension and EAD beyond the passport validity date?

Answer In general, yes. The shortened passport generally is an issue at the port of entry, where it will result in a short-duration I-94 (tied to the passport validity). But, the USCIS typically can grant an extension of status beyond the expiration date. The EAD expiration...

12 Feb 2018

I have an approved I-140 and I just got married. When do I add my spouse to my case?

Answer One's "after-acquired" spouse typically would file the I-485 application together with the principal applicant, once the priority date becomes current. Normally, until then, no action is required. (12.Feb.2018)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law...

05 Feb 2018

I am being sponsored for an H1B extension/change of employer. Do I need to file an H-4 extension for my husband at the same time, or can his H-4 extension be filed later?

Answer Either option would generally be acceptable, although filing together can prevent mistakes later on. It is easy to forget to extend the H-4. (05.Feb.2018)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law in real time. For...

29 Jan 2018

I am currently working in H1B status in Michigan, very close to the Canadian border. Is it ok if I rent a house in Canada and then commute to Michigan for work every morning? Would an H1B amendment be needed?

Answer Generally speaking, a person is permitted to live in Canada and commute to an H1B position in the U.S. each day. (This, of course, is assuming that the individual is permitted to reside in Canada, pursuant to Canadian immigration law.) If the H1B job and...