21 Feb 2019

NewsFlash! Rule Proposing End of H-4 EAD Program Moving Forward

Yesterday, the proposed regulation to terminate the program that allows certain H-4 spouses to obtain employment authorization was submitted to the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB). This is one of the required steps in the formal rulemaking process, and signals that the...

07 Jan 2019

I filed an application to change status from H1B to H-4, and the application is still pending. I just received a new job offer. Can I go back to H1B and start working in the new position?

Answer If one's H1B I-94 has not yet expired, this may be possible, depending upon the circumstances. However, this is a complex question, so one in this situation should talk to a qualified attorney for individualized advice. (07.Jan.2019)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and...

07 Jan 2019

I am in H-4 status and my I-94 is valid through March 2020. My husband just moved to a new employer, and his H1B I-94 is valid through December 2021. Do I need to file a new I-539 because of his change of employer?

Answer H-4 status is not tied to a particular employer, so one in this situation normally would not be required to file an extension. However, it is important to keep track of the different expiration dates, to avoid accidental overstays. (07.Jan.2019)In frequent sessions of our Chat,...

17 Dec 2018

I am in H-4 status, and am about to graduate with a master’s degree from an online university that is public and accredited. Can I qualify to file an H1B under the master’s cap?

Answer One who has received a master's degree or above from a nonprofit, accredited university normally would be eligible to file under the "master's cap." This applies, even if all the credits are taken through online courses. (There is a strict limit on the number of...

08 Oct 2018

If I quit my H1B job, am I eligible for the 60-day grace period? Or, does the grace period only apply if I am fired? Also, if I do get a grace period, what about my H-4 spouse?

Answer Yes, a person who resigns can still be eligible for the 60-day grace period, assuming one meets the other standard requirements (e.g., no violation of status, I-94 still valid). The same applies to one's H-4 dependents. (08.Oct.2018)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and...