Answer One's mother would not be eligible for H-4 status, but it may be possible to obtain extended B-2 status as a "household member." Please see the MurthyDotCom NewsBrief, B-2 Visas for Household Members of Long-Term Nonimmigrants (05.Dec.2016). (23.Apr.2018)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy...
Answer The issue isn't the duration of the visa, but rather the duration of your passport. As long as you have a valid B-1/B-2 visa in your passport and your passport is valid for the duration of the requested period, plus 6 months (unless you are...
Answer This is not prohibited. However, one should be prepared to answer questions about this at the port of entry regarding "immigrant intent" (i.e. whether one is truly a visitor, or whether one is actually intending to remain in the United States permanently on this trip.)...
Answer Prior to the date the current I-94 expires, one generally can apply for a B-2 extension. A valid reason for requesting the extension should be provided to improve one's chances that the application will be approved. (29.Jan.2018)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and...
Answer Entering as a visitor (either using ESTA or a B-1/B-2 visa), and then filing for permanent residence normally would be considered fraud, particularly if the filing took place within 90 days of entry as a visitor. (08.Jan.2018)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and...
Answer One in this situation can apply for a B-2 visa "stamp," but it may well be denied because of the pending H1B and the resulting "immigrant intent." But, even if it is denied, this typically would not impact the H1B petition. (25.Sep.2017)In frequent sessions of...
Answer A B visa ordinarily is not sponsored by an employer. With few exceptions, once it is issued, it may be used to request admission for business or pleasure. (24.Jul.2017)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the...
… However, when I first filed my application, there were fewer than 30 days between the end of my B-2 status and the F-1 program start date. Because the USCIS took several months to decide my case, my DSO deferred the admission start date to...
Answer Normally, one who has timely filed a change-of-status application is in a "period of authorized stay" until a decision is issued, regardless of how long it takes. (17.Jul.2017)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law...
Answer Even if one has a valid nonimmigrant visa, the CBP officers have wide discretion to bar admission. For instance, if the officers suspect that one's reasons for entering the U.S. are not valid or consistent with what is permitted under that particular visa category, or...
