22 Apr 2026

I was selected in the H1B lottery, but my registration listed a different work location than where I actually will be working. Can my employer file the H1B petition for the new location?

Answer Yes. The USCIS has stated that it will not deny a new or amended H1B petition solely because the work location differs from the one listed in the original registration. However, the proffered wage must continue to meet or exceed the same OES wage level...

22 Apr 2026

I filed my I-485 adjustment-of-status application when my priority date was current. The Visa Bulletin later retrogressed. What does this mean for my I-485 application?

Answer If your priority date was current at the time you properly filed your Form I-485, USCIS generally will continue processing your application even if the Visa Bulletin later retrogresses, and your filing remains valid. However, because the USCIS cannot approve your adjustment-of-status application unless a...

22 Apr 2026

I filed my I-485 adjustment-of-status application when my priority date was current. The Visa Bulletin later retrogressed. Will the USCIS also pause the processing for my pending EAD or AP application?

Answer No, retrogression does not pause the processing of a concurrently filed EAD or AP application. Additionally, it does not affect the validity of an existing EAD or AP, nor does it prevent a person from applying for extensions. (21.Apr.2026)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide...

20 Apr 2026

Murthy Law Firm Observations on $100,000 H1B Fee: Practice Reality vs Published Guidance

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently issued guidance clarifying who will be subject to the $100,000 fee imposed under the 19.Sep.2025, executive proclamation addressing certain H1B filings. While the published guidance outlines specific circumstances in which the fee should apply, the Murthy Law...

16 Apr 2026

My employment-based I-485 application has been pending for more than 180 days, and I have moved to a new employer and want to request AC21 portability. Should I proactively send in a Form I-485 Supplement J, or wait for an RFE?

Answer In this scenario, it would be advisable to proactively send in the Supplement J form, as USCIS will not necessarily issue an RFE. (14.Apr.2026)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access...

16 Apr 2026

I am an F-1 student in a hybrid program that mixes online classes with required in-person sessions. Can this type of program satisfy the full course of study requirement?

Answer It likely can, as long as the in-person component is genuinely required, not optional. (14.Apr.2026)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 © 2026, MURTHY LAW FIRM. All...

16 Apr 2026

I am an Indian national and my immigrant visa interview was scheduled at the U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai, but I live very far away. Can the interview be moved to another consulate closer to me?

Answer Unfortunately, the U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai is the only consular post in India that processes and issues immigrant visas. (14.Apr.2026)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 Apr 2026

May 2026 Visa Bulletin

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has released the May 2026 Visa Bulletin. There is little to no forward movement for most employment-based categories. All cutoff dates listed below refer to the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Filing Charts for May 2026 The...