23 Jul 2020

I had been working in H1B status, but I came to India in February, and I have been stuck here for months due to the pandemic. My H1B employer has now laid me off, but my H1B visa and petition are still valid. Can I travel to the U.S. in H1B to look for a new employer?

Answer No, generally speaking, a person may not enter the U.S. in H1B status unless that person is coming to work for the H1B petitioning employer. (20.Jul.2020)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click...

23 Jul 2020

My sister is a U.S. citizen. If she sponsors me for a green card, can I use the form I-130 to extend my H1B status beyond the 6-year max?

Answer No, one may not use a pending or approved I-130 petition as a basis to extend H1B status. (20.Jul.2020)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 © 2020,...

15 Jul 2020

NewsFlash: H1B and H-4 Visa Applicants Sue Trump Administration Over President’s Order that Targets Nonimmigrant Workers

A large group of H1B and H-4 visa applicants have filed the first lawsuit against the Trump Administration's June 22, 2020, proclamation that prohibits the admission of certain nonimmigrants. Importantly, the lawsuit not only requests the court to rule on each individual's visa application, but...

29 Jun 2020

MurthyAudio: Murthy Discusses Presidential Proclamation Impacting H1B, L-1, and Certain Other NIV Holders

Late on the evening of June 22, 2020, the Trump Administration issued a Presidential Proclamation that impacts individuals applying for certain nonimmigrant visas (NIVs). Specifically, the travel ban applies to certain NIVs like the H1B, H2B, L-1, certain J holders, and their dependents.There is fear...