The B-1 visa category is generally for those seeking entry into the United States to engage in temporary, business-related activities that do not involve the performance of day-to-day work duties. The B-1 in lieu of H1B visa category, however, allows individuals to enter the United...
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently issued correspondence stating that the relationship between long-term, same-sex partners will be recognized as a family relationship in a specific, limited context. The letter from Janet Napolitano, DHS Secretary, addressed the term family relationship as a factor...
It is vitally important for all foreign nationals, regardless of immigration status, to understand the immigration consequences of criminal violations and arrests. Indeed, even a seemingly minor criminal offense, with minimal penalties, can impact one's immigration status, as well as eligibility for future immigration benefits....
There are many variables that can impact the length of time it can take for an individual to obtain a visa for travel to the United States. This is particularly important to foreign nationals living abroad who want temporary U.S. entry, as well as to...
One of the major obstacles an individual encounters when applying for the B-1 or B-2 visitor visa is the presumption of immigrant intent with regard to the proposed trip to the United States. In order to overcome this presumption, it is important that one demonstrate,...
Minister Counselor James W. Herman, of the U.S. Embassy, New Delhi, India, advised in late June 2012 of ongoing consideration of a potential drastic reduction in the duration of B-1 (business visitor) visas issued to Indian citizens seeking to visit the United States. A recent...
Our Indian affiliate, Murthy Immigration Services, Pvt. Ltd. (MISPL) recently provided an update regarding the procedures for nonimmigrant visa applications for young children applying within India. This article summarizes information provided to readers of the MurthyIndiaBulletin, as it is also important to many MurthyDotCom readers...
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced its May 22, 2012 launch of the initial phase of USCIS ELIS (electronic immigration system) for filing requests for certain immigration benefits. This is part of the overhaul of the systems previously used by the USCIS...
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) recently announced major changes to nonimmigrant and immigrant visa fees. These fees are charged to applicants who apply for visas (sometimes referred to as visa "stamping") at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad. These new fees became effective April 13,...
The U.S. consulates and embassies are currently implementing a U.S. Department of State (DOS) pilot program announced in January 2012. This program allows individuals who meet certain conditions to avoid interviewing at U.S. consulates when seeking their visas. This Visa Interview Waiver Program (IWP) is...
