01 Aug 2016

My 6 years on H1B is about to expire, but I have a newborn who was born premature and will be in the ICU for several months. Can my H1B be extended beyond 6 years based on my family’s medical needs?

Answer The six years of H1B time is set by statute and cannot be extended for humanitarian reasons. It can only be extended based upon recapturing unused time abroad or based upon a qualifying GC case. If the status is ending, and the family cannot travel...

26 Jul 2016

I left the U.S. in the middle of my program of study in F-1 status because of a family emergency. I am ready to return to the U.S. this afternoon, after being outside for one week, but I just realized that my I-20 has not been signed by my DSO for travel. Will I be able to reenter the U.S.?

Answer A student returning to the U.S. without all of the required travel documents may be denied entry. However, immigration inspectors have discretion to admit students in these cases for up to 30 days with a I-515A form. In such cases, in order to convert 30-day...

07 Jul 2016

H1B Transition Issues: International Travel

It is the time of year when many former F-1 students are transitioning to H1B status. The Murthy Law Firm has some thoughts regarding travel considerations for F-1 students who need or want to go abroad while transitioning to H1B status. Many F-1 students wish...