Answer There is no legal prohibition on doing this. However, one in this situation would need to convince a consular officer (if one requires a B-2 visa "stamp") or a CBP officer at the airport (if one already has a B-2 visa) that the purpose in...
Answer One MUST be in the United States to file an I-485. If one is not, s/he must apply for a green card through consular processing with the U.S. Department of State at a U.S. consulate. The employer may need to file form I-824 to convert...
Answer In order to reenter in H-4 status, one generally would need a valid H-4 visa "stamp." It would not be necessary to wait for the approval of the H-4 extension. To apply for an H-4 visa stamp (or be admitted in H-4 status based on...
Answer In general, if the I-485 was filed before the child turned 21 years of age, and within one year of the priority date becoming current, the child would be protected by the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA). However, there are a number of additional factors...
Answer In general, it is not advisable to attempt to pursue a change of H1B petition employers until the "cap" H1B approval has taken effect - normally, October 1st or the date of approval, whichever is later. Attempting to file another H1B before this occurs can...
Answer In general, yes. If the job contained in the original H1B petition is still available, one could continue to work in that position until the petition expires, unless the USCIS has specifically ordered one to depart the United States in the denial notice for the...
Answer In general, a petitioner may withdraw a request for "change of status" while replying to an RFE, and request approval only for consular notification (i.e., consular processing). (24.Jun.2019)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law...
Answer Yes, expert opinions are still an important part of most RFE responses, and should definitely be considered when responding to a "specialty occupation" RFE. (24.Jun.2019)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law in real time....
Answer We oftentimes recommend to clients that they remain in H1B status, if possible, but this is not a requirement. The main benefit of maintaining H1B status is that it is a "backup" if the I-485 application is denied for some reason. Also, one may continue...
Answer Generally speaking, moving to a new H1B employer would not impact the dependent spouse's pending H-4/EAD extension applications. (24.Jun.2019)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law in real time. For details on chat participation, click...
