In this post-9/11 age of high security and careful screening of foreign nationals seeking to enter the United States, it is important to remember that failure to attend to small details may cause big problems. When making travel plans, we caution MurthyDotCom readers to be...
The Murthy Law Firm is pleased to provide some guidance for foreign nationals about the importance of keeping certain immigration-related documents. This is particularly important for those intending to change and/or extend nonimmigrant status, as well as those filing the application for adjustment of status...
In order for the United States to participate in foreign commerce, treaties and diplomatic relations, foreign government representatives and their entourages must be able to enter the United States for official business. Diplomats are not subject to the same stringent requirements as other persons seeking...
H1Bs have long been the visa of choice for those bringing specialty occupation employees to the U.S. to work temporarily. However, it is also important to consider alternatives to the H1B program. The L-1 visa is potentially an attractive option for multinational companies. Following is...
In 1996 Legacy INS (now the USCIS) issued a memorandum outlining the general policy guidelines on when a new or amended H1B petition must be filed.This memo was issued to allay confusion about deadlines for filing an amended petition. Although the memo attempts to clarify...
The terms visa and status are often used interchangeably, which creates confusion for many people. Here, the distinctions between visa and status are clarified for the benefit of our readers. Visa Issued by U.S. Consulate Abroad A visa is a document issued by the U.S. Department of...
This overview examines the six-year limitation on a foreign national's stay in the United States in H1B status, and the exceptions to that limit. It also explains H1B portability, the H1B quota or "cap" provisions, and related matters. Duration of Stay in H1B Status The maximum duration...
