The rule proposed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to revise and reauthorize the STEM optional practical training (OPT) program was published in the federal register on October 19, 2015. The proposed rule would increase the duration of STEM OPT extensions to 24...
Answer The visa "stamp" generally remains valid through to its expiration date. It can be used to request admission up until the last day. The duration of admission is determined by the H1B petition, which may not match the visa end date if there has been...
Answer Yes, it is possible to have two H1B petition approvals and concurrent employment. The fields do not have to match, provided the beneficiary is qualified for both positions. (19.Oct.2015)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the...
Answer If you file a FOIA request, the USCIS may not provide you with a copy of the actual approval notice; but, the USCIS typically will at least provide the beneficiary with related documents that contain all the important information one would find on the actual...
Answer The H-4 visa application does not require that the H1B spouse have an up-to-date H1B visa "stamp." The H-4 application simply requires showing proof of the marriage and proof of the spouse's valid H1B status. (19.Oct.2015)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other...
On Monday, October 19, 2015, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is expected to publish the new STEM optional practical training (OPT) rule in the federal register. This rule, if enacted, would allow for STEM OPT extensions of up to 24 months, which is seven...
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has completed its review of the proposed rule on STEM optional practical training (OPT). In the near future, it is very likely that the rule will be published in the federal register and stakeholders will be given at least...
As previously reported (02.Oct.2015), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) submitted a new proposed rule on STEM optional practical training (OPT) for review by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Notice of the submission is available online, but, at present, no specifics regarding the...
Answer The question here is how one plans to return to the U.S. If the H-1 approval is needed in order to return, it is risky to travel. Travel doesn't make it more or less likely that the case will be approved; it is just that...
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that "… petitions filed on or after October 1, 2015, should not include the additional fee that was previously required by … Public Law 111-230 … for certain H1B and L-1 petitions." This filing fee, which only...
