26 Oct 2015

My H1B visa stamp expires in December, but my H1B petition was just approved through 2018. If I travel abroad, and plan to return before my visa stamp expires, do I still have to get a new stamp?

Answer The visa 'stamp' can be used as an entry document through its expiration date. This document can be used with the new extension, although that sometimes causes issues with "short" I-94s at the port of entry. So, be sure to present the latest I-797 approval...

23 Oct 2015

I have been working pursuant to the initial F-1 OPT authorization. I was unemployed during the first 85 days of OPT authorization, as I was still looking for an employer in my field of study. …

... Once I started working, I had two weeks of unpaid leave for health reasons. Would the two weeks I missed be counted against the maximum 90-day unemployment allowance? Answer The two-week period should not be added to your 85 days of unemployment, if you were still...

19 Oct 2015

Can I have two H1B jobs in two different fields?

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...

19 Oct 2015

My H1B visa stamp is from my old employer. Can my wife apply for an H-4 visa stamp if she provides the consulate with my new employer’s documents?

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...

12 Oct 2015

I am a green card holder. If I file an I-130 for my spouse, can she still apply for any other nonimmigrant visa, such as H1B or F-1, while the GC case is in process?

Answer The H1B nonimmigrant category has dual intent. Thus, the I-130 filing does not impact the H1B. While a person can always apply for F-1 even after the I-130 filing, that category requires nonimmigrant intent. Therefore, the I-130 could be a cause for denial of the...