29 Sep 2016

CIS Ombudsman’s Updates on EAD and H1B Processing Delays

The Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman (CIS Ombudsman) held a teleconference on August 31, 2016 to discuss processing delays for certain types of cases. More specifically, the teleconference focused on adjudication delays of applications for employment authorization documents (EADs), change-of-status (COS) applications, and H1B petitions...

22 Sep 2016

Immigration Basics: Government Agencies Involved with U.S. Immigration

In order to assist MurthyDotCom readers in their navigation of the complex immigration maze, this brief outline describes the main government entities involved in the immigration process of foreign nationals coming to the United States. The immigration process includes the granting of immigration benefits, as...

09 Sep 2016

I initially came to the U.S. in H-4 status as a dependent of my spouse. I completed a bachelor’s degree in computer science, and decided to apply for admission to an MBA program. …

... Once admitted, I changed to F-1 status and completed that degree. I applied and was authorized for the 12-month optional practical training period, which ends in a few weeks. I would like to apply for a 24-month OPT extension, based on my bachelor's degree...

02 Sep 2016

I am a student in F-1 status, working full time on STEM OPT. I would like to switch to part-time employment with my current employer (20 hours per week) and take on additional part-time employment (10 hours per week). Is this allowed?

Answer While STEM OPT employment can be part time for no less than 20 hours per week and concurrent employment for multiple employers is allowed, you are not allowed to work less than 20 hours for each of the employers. Additionally, you must submit to your...

26 Aug 2016

I will finish my degree in two months. My DSO has just told me that he had to terminate my SEVIS record because I fell under the full course of study, but did not ask for his authorization to be able to do so in advance. Can I apply for reinstatement to F-1 status?

Answer You can certainly apply for reinstatement. However, to be eligible for it, you should be either enrolled in classes on a full-time basis or show that you intend to enroll at the beginning of the next available term. For all practical purposes, therefore, you may...