On 03.Sep.2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a notice in the Federal Register proposing significant revisions to the information collected on the petition for approval of school for attendance by nonimmigrant student (form I-17), and the certificate of eligibility for nonimmigrant (F-1...
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has issued new instructions, effective 06.Sep.2025, that may sharply curtail the practice of third-country national (TCN) visa processing. The new guidance signals that most nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applicants will be expected to apply from within their country of nationality...
Answer The OPT time does not work like H1B time. In most circumstances, once you use any portion of your OP, the rest is ‘use it or lose it.’ (02.Sep.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE...
On August 28, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a proposed rule that would significantly change how F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and I-1 media representatives are admitted to and allowed to remain in the United States. The most substantial change is...
Answer If the college was accredited at the time the degree was conferred, the degree typically can be used to meet a PERM position’s degree requirements. (20.Aug.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click...
Answer It is important to get immigration guidance and criminal representation. The consequences depend, to a large extent, upon the maximum possible sentence allowed for the charge in the particular state. In some locations, a conviction for shoplifting makes one removable (i.e., deportable) and inadmissible. In...
President Trump signed a spending bill, dubbed the “Big Beautiful Bill,” into law on 04.Jul.2025. While the bill does not fundamentally change who is eligible for U.S. immigration benefits or create new, legal pathways, it dramatically increases funding for immigration enforcement and increases the financial...
It is the time of year when many former F-1 students are preparing to transition to H1B status. During this period, many F-1 students wish to travel abroad to visit family and friends, leading to questions about how such travel may affect their change to...
Following the implementation of the travel ban implemented on 09.Jun.2025, many foreign nationals have been left with questions regarding their eligibility for visa issuance and admission to the United States. While the proclamation restricts entry for many, it includes provisions for exceptions, including a national...
If U.S. consular officers determine that an applicant committed fraud or willful misrepresentation to obtain an immigration benefit, they can make a finding under Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) 212(a)(6)(C)(i) that makes the applicant inadmissible to the United States. A finding of fraud or willful...
