Answer One in OPT status typically gets the normal 60-day grace period at the end of the OPT period. The I-94 in this case should say "D/S" (duration of status) rather than being a specific date. (28.Aug.2017)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other...
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) recently updated the Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM), which provides official guidance to consular officers, in light of the 'Buy American, Hire American" executive order (EO) signed by President Trump on April 18, 2017. The DOS FAM update primarily serves...
Answer Yes, to enter on F-1 OPT, a valid visa "stamp" is typically required (with the limited exception of travel to Canada or Mexico under the automatic visa revalidation rule). (21.Aug.2017)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies...
… My current OPT employer would like me to continue working for them on STEM OPT, but they are not registered for E-Verify, which is required for STEM OPT employers. They suggested that I find another company that is E-Verify registered to sponsor me for...
Answer You must inform your DSO of your plans so that you can maintain valid F-1 status. Your DSO must issue a new I-20, based on your admission to the new program, and initiate the change-of-level procedure in SEVIS while you are still in your 60-day...
… 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 Generally speaking, one on F-1 cap gap may not continue to work beyond September 30th of that year until and unless the H1B change-of-status petition is approved. (17.Jul.2017)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law...
Answer One in this situation should consult a competent attorney for individualized advice. However, this is a serious problem and will frequently lead to denial of the H1B petition. One possible option may be to find a new client in the same metropolitan statistical area (MSA)....
Answer Generally speaking, a U.S. citizen may sponsor an F-1/OPT spouse for a green card. Depending on the U.S. citizen's finances, however, a joint financial sponsor (a friend or family member who is a U.S. citizen or green card holder) may be required. It may also...
Attorney There is nothing prohibiting multiple filings. However, the general rule is that the last approval will govern one's status. So, once the desired application is approved, it is important to withdraw the unwanted application, to avoid ending up in the "wrong" (unwanted) status. Unfortunately, even...
