31 Oct 2019

My STEM OPT was approved through July 2021. My H1B was selected in this year’s lottery, but it was just denied. Can I keep working based on my STEM OPT?

Answer Normally, an H1B change-of-status denial would have no impact on one's current status or eligibility to continue working in STEM OPT. (30.Oct.2019)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...

31 Oct 2019

My H-4 EAD is about to expire, and my EAD renewal application has been pending for three months. If I submit an expedite request and that request is denied, will it negatively impact my pending EAD application?

Answer In the current environment, the USCIS generally will only approve an expedite request if the person can provide a compelling reason and strong supporting evidence for the expedite request. That being said, if the request is denied, this normally should not negatively impact the pending...

31 Oct 2019

I have been working in H1B status for several years. My I-94 has been extended to 2022, but the visa stamp in my passport has expired. Can I apply for a new stamp in Canada?

Answer Generally speaking, it is possible to apply for a visa "stamp" in Canada. It is suggested that you read this official information regarding third-country nationals applying for a visa in Canada. (30.Oct.2019)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information...

24 Oct 2019

My H1B petition was filed using premium processing, and an RFE was issued within 15 days. My employer just submitted the RFE response. Will that also be reviewed using premium processing?

Answer Yes, generally speaking, the case will remain in the premium processing track until it is approved or denied. The USCIS normally will issue a final decision - or, less likely, issue a second RFE or a notice of intent to deny (NOID) - within 15...

24 Oct 2019

I had about 20 months left of STEM OPT time remaining, when my H1B change of status was approved. Is it possible to go back to my STEM OPT, use the remaining time, and then return to H1B status?

Answer Once a person has started working pursuant to STEM OPT and then changes to H1B status, any remaining STEM OPT time generally is abandoned. (23.Oct.2019)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here.Access...

24 Oct 2019

I am in H1B status, my wife is in H-4 status, and my son is a U.S. citizen. We just moved to a new address. Can I fill out one AR-11 for the entire family?

Answer Generally speaking, a separate AR-11 must be filed for each non-exempt family member. (i.e., No AR-11 is needed for the U.S. citizen child.) (23.Oct.2019)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here.Access more...

24 Oct 2019

DOS Rule on Determining Visa Ineligibility Based on Public Charge Grounds

On October 11, 2019, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) published an interim final rule in the Federal Register, entitled Visas: Ineligibility Based on Public Charge Grounds. Once this interim final rule goes into effect, it will greatly expand the categories of public benefits considered...