Answer No. Under the new F-1 fixed-period-of-admission rule scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026, the Form I-20 and the I-94 will serve different purposes. An F-1 student admitted under the new rule will need to maintain a valid Form I-20 and comply with......
18 August 2026The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has published a final rule that would end duration-of-status admission for F-1 students and replace it with a fixed period of admission reflected on the student’s I-94 record. As stated in the MurthyDotCom NewsFlash! DHS Finalizes Major Changes to......
28 July 2026Answer An expired F-1 visa stamp does not affect a student’s ability to remain in the United States, provided the student continues to maintain valid F-1 status. However, if the student travels abroad after the visa stamp expires, a new F-1 visa typically is required......
21 July 2026The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has published a final rule in the Federal Register that replaces duration-of-status admissions for F, J, and I nonimmigrants with fixed admission periods. The rule is scheduled to take effect 15.Sep.2026, subject to the congressional review process and......
17 July 2026The Department of Homeland Security has finalized a rule that replaces duration-of-status admissions for certain F, J, and I nonimmigrants with fixed admission periods, generally tied to the length of the program and capped at four years for F-1 and J-1 students and exchange visitors.......
16 July 2026For many F-1 students, selection in the H1B cap is welcome news. However, because H1B employment typically begins after the expiration of many students’ F-1 status or Optional Practical Training (OPT), a gap can arise between the end of F-1 employment authorization and the H1B......
09 July 2026A person living in the United States on a visa may hear terms such as “out of status,” “authorized stay,” and “unlawful presence.” Although these phrases can sound similar, they have distinct legal meanings. Understanding the difference can be important, because it may affect whether......
01 July 2026The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued an interim final rule giving officers the discretion to deny, rather than simply reject, a benefit request found to have an invalid signature after the case has been accepted for processing. Why this Matters Previously, requests with......
08 June 2026Common issues that non-citizens face when reentering the U.S. after travel abroad are discussed by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in this podcast, broadcasted on 06.May.2026. The MP3 is available here and soon can be found in the archive of our podcasts and teleconferences on iTunes.......
11 May 2026The Trump administration has announced a significant shift in federal drug policy, reclassifying state‑licensed medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under the federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This action, taken by the U.S. Department of Justice and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) pursuant......
04 May 2026Answer It likely can, as long as the in-person component is genuinely required, not optional. (14.Apr.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. Copyright ©......
16 April 2026Strategies for filing nonimmigrant status when H-1 and L-1 are not available are discussed by attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm in this podcast, which was broadcasted 01.Apr.2026. The MP3 is available here and soon can be found in the archive of our podcasts and......
06 April 2026Effective March 10, 2026, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance operations have launched at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) in downtown Toronto. U.S.-bound travelers departing from this airport now will complete U.S. immigration and customs inspection before boarding in Canada. Once they arrive......
26 March 2026The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) has issued a significant precedent decision, Matter of Texperts, Inc., 29 I&N Dec. 491 (AAO 2026), that will have lasting consequences for employers and foreign nationals facing fraud or misrepresentation allegations across a wide......
16 March 2026On January 1, 2026, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued Policy Memorandum PM-602-0194, directing all agency personnel to place an adjudicative hold on pending benefit applications filed by or for nationals of countries listed in Presidential Proclamation (PP) 10998, Restricting and Limiting......
12 March 2026Answer Generally speaking, the H1B wage does not have to be paid until and unless the foreign national is granted H1B status. There is no requirement that the H1B salary be paid at the time the person enters the H1B lottery. (11.Feb.2026) Sheela Murthy and......
11 February 2026Since taking office, the Trump administration has instituted numerous policies to make it more difficult for foreign nationals – including international students – to come to the United States. This has highlighted the need for caution among current and potential F-1 students when selecting the......
09 February 2026Answer A person on OPT who otherwise has maintained valid status normally can work for up to 180 days beyond their OPT EAD expiration date, based on a timely filed STEM OPT extension application. (27.Jan.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies......
27 January 2026A May 2025 internal Immigration and Customs Enforcement memo revealed that the agency has authorized its officers, in certain situations, to forcibly enter private residences using administrative warrants, without obtaining warrants signed by judges. The policy represents a significant departure from longstanding federal law enforcement......
22 January 2026In a significant development for international travel, a U.S. Department of State (DOS) memorandum has revealed a plan to indefinitely freeze visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, effective 21.Jan.2026. This move represents a major expansion of the current administration’s immigration and border policies. According......
14 January 2026Answer Yes, a student may initiate a SEVIS transfer during the 60-day grace period following program completion. However, initiating the transfer during the grace period does not extend the five-month deadline. The new program still must begin within five months of the student’s last date......
14 January 2026On Monday, 12.Jan.2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is scheduled to publish a final rule in the Federal Register that will increase the premium processing fees. This fee increase will go into effect on 01.Mar.2026. Per the final rule, premium processing fees that are......
09 January 2026Answer Under SEVIS regulations, a student’s new academic program must begin within five months of the earlier of (1) the student’s program end date or (2) the SEVIS transfer release date. In practice, this means the five-month clock usually starts on the student’s last date......
06 January 2026Answer No. F-1 students who timely file for a STEM OPT extension still receive up to 180 days of automatic employment authorization and valid F-1 status while USCIS processes the application. The 29.Oct.2025 rule only impacts certain EAD renewal categories and does not change the......
10 December 2025The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced new policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on how country-specific facts and circumstances may impact the adjudication of discretionary benefit requests. Presidential Proclamation 10949 The new guidance follows the framework of the 04.Jun.2025 Presidential Proclamation......
04 December 2025Answer No, the $100,000 fee would not apply to an F-1 student, if the H1B is approved as a change of status. (23.Oct.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access......
23 October 2025For over three decades, immigration enforcement agencies operated under policies that restricted enforcement activities at certain sensitive locations, such as schools, places of worship, and hospitals. This protective framework, built through successive presidential administrations, ended abruptly on January 20, 2025, when the Trump Administration rescinded......
02 October 2025Each year, thousands of F-1 students are granted a change of status to H1B, with an effective start date of October 1st. But plans sometimes change before the start date. The employer may withdraw the H1B petition before it ever takes effect, leaving the student......
25 September 2025On 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......
15 September 2025The 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......
11 September 2025Answer 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......
03 September 2025On 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......
29 August 2025The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published policy guidance on 19.Aug.2025, updating the factors officers may consider when exercising discretion in certain immigration benefit requests. The update emphasizes negative discretionary weight for applicants with connections to “anti-American” or terrorist organizations. Understanding Discretionary Analysis Many......
28 August 2025Answer 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......
20 August 2025Answer 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.......
23 July 2025President 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......
10 July 2025It 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......
07 July 2025Following 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......
30 June 2025If 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......
26 June 2025The U.S. Department of State (DOS) recently announced that U.S. consular posts soon will resume scheduling visa appointments for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visa applicants. The resumption comes alongside the implementation of expanded screening and vetting procedures that will include comprehensive review of applicants’......
23 June 2025Answer If a student attends a school on a quarter or trimester calendar, they may take one vacation per year during any one of the quarters or trimesters, as long as they have completed the equivalent of an academic year prior to taking the vacation.......
17 June 2025Given President Trump’s immigration directives, which focus heavily on enforcement efforts, there is growing concern surrounding possible increases in site visits and audits by various agencies involved in immigration enforcement. This article gives a non-exhaustive list of areas where employers can audit themselves or seek......
02 June 2025Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on 28.May.2025 that the U.S. Department of State (DOS) would begin to “aggressively revoke” F-1 visa “stamps” of certain Chinese nationals studying in the United States and will closely scrutinize future visa applicants from China. Targeting Communists and Those......
29 May 2025The Trump administration has ordered all U.S. consular posts to temporarily halt the scheduling of visa “stamp” appointment slots at consular posts for F, J, and M visa applicants. Foreign nationals who have already scheduled such visa appointments should not be impacted by this announcement.......
27 May 2025Answer A person in valid H-4 status typically is permitted to enroll in university, regardless of whether they have an EAD. (21.May.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more......
21 May 2025Common issues faced by non-citizens when reentering the U.S. after travel abroad are discussed by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in this May 2025 podcast recommended specifically for employers. The MP3 is available here and can be found in the archive of our teleconferences and......
15 May 2025Murthy Law Firm attorneys guide nonimmigrants and others on preparation for entering the U.S. at a port of entry (POE) in 2025. The MP3 is available here and can be found in the archive of our teleconferences and podcasts on iTunes. ......
01 May 2025Answer Typically, applying for an F-1 visa “stamp” would not impact the validity of an existing B-1/B-2 visa. (30.Apr.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. ......
30 April 2025Recent developments indicate that the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) / U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is taking the position that the termination of a SEVIS record does not automatically result in the loss of lawful immigration status. This evolving interpretation carries significant......
24 April 2025Murthy Law Firm’s Assistant Managing Attorney, Anna Stepanova, was interviewed recently by a CBS News affiliate in Colorado regarding the recent wave of student visa revocations. The story focused specifically on the F-1 visa revocations at Colorado State University and the University of Colorado. Not......
21 April 2025U.S. immigration law includes provisions intended to help authorities keep track of foreign nationals in the United States. By law, all non-U.S. citizens aged 18 or older are required to carry at all times, a “certificate of alien registration or alien registration receipt card” (e.g.,......
17 April 2025In light of recent immigration policies and heightened scrutiny at U.S. ports of entry, many noncitizens are feeling anxious about returning to the U.S. It is important to approach reentry with preparation and caution. While every situation is unique, there are several best practices that......
10 April 2025Many international students in the U.S. are facing a troubling situation: they are receiving sudden eMails from the government and their designated school officials (DSOs) saying their F-1 visas have been revoked and their SEVIS records terminated. Understandably, this causes tremendous fear and confusion. Students......
04 April 2025Details of the alien registration requirement, which had been announced by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on 25.Feb.2025, have now been released. Effective 11.Apr.2025, foreign nationals who are subject to the new registration mandate must comply with the registration requirement via an online......
17 March 2025Issues that come up at the U.S. Consulate when obtaining a nonimmigrant visa are discussed by attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm and our affiliate, Murthy Immigration Services, Pvt. Ltd, Chennai, India, in this podcast in our series intended for employers. The MP3 is......
12 March 2025On 26.Feb.2025, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) issued updated guidance in the Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM) removing the policy that a consular officer’s recommendation for approval of a foreign national’s nonimmigrant visa (NIV) waiver request be consistent with a prior adjudication of the individual’s......
10 March 2025Last month, the U.S. Department of State quietly changed the eligibility requirements for nonimmigrant visa applicants in India seeking an interview waiver (commonly referred to as “dropbox” appointments). These changes, which appear to have been made without a formal announcement, are outlined on the U.S.......
14 February 2025The H1B registration period for fiscal year 2026 (FY26) is nearly upon us. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will kick off the two-week H1B registration period on 07.Mar.2025. And, while there are some registration system enhancements this year, the core process of submitting......
11 February 2025The STEM OPT training plan and how employers and employees can comply with its requirements are discussed by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in this podcast. The MP3 is available here and can be found in the archive of our teleconferences and podcasts on iTunes.......
29 January 2025Answer Although the regulations do not explicitly forbid working as an independent contractor, the STEM OPT guidance requires a bona fide employer-employee relationship, including training, supervision, and wage requirement. Therefore, it seems likely that working as an independent contractor would be viewed as a violation......
08 January 2025Answer The prudential revocations of a visa due to a DUI only impacts the visa “stamp,” not a person’s status. That being said, please see our MurthyDotCom InfoArticle, Alcohol-Related Arrests Create Immigration Problems (29.Dec.2023), which summarizes some of the key problems that can be created......
02 January 2025Answer A PERM case filed for one’s spouse normally would not increase the risk the denial of a change of status to F-1. (24.Dec.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here.......
24 December 2024On 18.Dec.2024, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will publish a final rule in the Federal Register that will implement a number of significant changes, primarily to the H1B program. These changes are scheduled to go into effect 30 days after publication – just......
17 December 2024President-elect Donald Trump soon will be sworn in as the forty-seventh President of the United States, and many foreign nationals are nervously waiting to see how and when he will implement many of the disruptive immigration policies that marked his first term in office. One......
25 November 2024President-elect Donald Trump will begin his second term in office as President of the United States, effective January 20, 2025. Since the election, the Murthy Law Firm has received numerous questions about how his new administration will impact U.S. immigration law and policy. To assist......
21 November 2024Over the past several days, President-elect Donald Trump has selected several people to serve in his administration, which will start on January 20, 2025. All, unsurprisingly, have expressed views that parallel those the President-elect when it comes to immigration issues. Former ICE Director to Serve......
14 November 2024Answer A revocation of a visa “stamp” does not impact one’s immigration status in the U.S. It means, however, that you would have to apply for a new visa to return to the U.S. after a trip abroad, even though your existing visa stamp may......
30 October 2024In general, each state sets its own rules regarding who is eligible to receive a driver’s license. However, under the REAL ID Act of 2005, for a state-issued driver’s license to be a compliant form of identification for official purposes, a state motor vehicle department......
30 September 2024Answer Your EAD and F-1 status are automatically extended for 180 days while your STEM OPT is pending. If you travel during this time, you should be able to come back with an expired EAD and the STEM OPT receipt notice. You should also be......
18 September 2024The PERM labor certification is the first in a three-step process in the majority of employment-based, permanent resident (commonly referred to as “green card”) cases. Because of how long this process can take, foreign nationals studying in the United States often want to begin the......
16 September 2024On August 27, 2024, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued updated guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual related to optional practical training (OPT) for F-1 students. Below are the key points you need to know: A student may apply for a STEM OPT......
05 September 2024Answer You should be eligible for the 60-day grace period in F-1 status as long as your STEM OPT was not denied due to an F-1 status violation. While you are in your grace period, you may transfer your SEVIS to another program of study......
28 August 2024A student in F-1 status who has been granted optional practical training (OPT) may normally have no more than a total of 90 days of unemployment during the initial one-year post-completion OPT period. On occasion, the Murthy Law Firm hears from students on OPT who......
26 August 2024As the second round of the FY2025 cap lottery begins, it is important to note one avoidable reason for an H1B petition – or really, any type of petition or application – to be rejected by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is for......
20 August 2024A policy proposal from the Heritage Foundation named the 2025 Presidential Transition Project – or Project 2025, as it is widely referred to in the press – presents a comprehensive set of conservative reforms aimed at restructuring federal government policies, including U.S. immigration policy. Former......
29 July 2024Answer As long as your new employer is registered with E-Verify and the new job offer is for at least 20 hours per week, you should have a new Form I-983 completed with your new employer and provide it to your DSO. This should enable......
24 July 2024A student in F-1 status, who is on Optional Practical Training (OPT), may have no more than a total of 90 days of unemployment during the regular one-year post-completion OPT period. A student eligible for an additional 24 months of OPT (for a total of......
20 May 2024Answer If a student wishes to change employers when the STEM OPT application is pending, the student must report the change of employers to the DSO and provide the DSO with a new training plan (I-983 form) completed and signed by both the employer and......
01 May 2024The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) strictly enforces the requirement to file the optional practical training (OPT) application within 30 days of the date the designated school official (DSO) enters the OPT recommendation into the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record, and......
22 April 2024Answer No, only the employer and/or the attorney representing the employer can directly check to see if the registration was submitted on your behalf. You could try filing a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with the USCIS to ask for documents related to any......
10 April 2024A student in F-1 status with initial optional practical training (OPT) authorization may meet the employment requirements by engaging in self-employment as an alternative option from the standard employment relationship. For a student interested in such an alternative or who is otherwise interested in starting......
08 April 2024For those not selected in the H1B cap-subject lottery, some options are discussed in this article, including transferring to another F-1 program of study, finding cap-exempt employment or determining if another nonimmigrant option is viable. There also are options for nationals of certain countries like......
01 April 2024The Murthy Law Firm routinely receives calls from individuals asking how to deal with birth documents that have incorrect information. Foreign nationals seeking to apply for U.S. immigration benefits should ensure that the birth information on official documents, like birth certificates and passports, is accurate.......
21 March 2024Employment options available to F-1 students are the topic discussed by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in the March 2024 podcast in our series for employers. The MP3 is available here and can be found in the archive of our teleconferences and podcasts on iTunes.......
14 March 2024The typical H1B cap-filing season raises questions about extensions of F-1 student status and optional practical training (OPT) before the beginning of H1B status. Many foreign national students tend to have questions about coordinating H1B filings with the expiration of their F-1 status and OPT......
07 March 2024Answer A person typically qualifies for a new period of OPT after each educational level. The “master’s” period of OPT would be exhausted after completing an MBA, so one would not qualify after then completing a second master’s degree. And, you cannot apply for a......
28 February 2024Answer No, there normally is nothing that would need to be filed for the H1B principal’s dependents during the registration period. (21.Feb.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more......
21 February 2024The official U.S. Visa Information Service website for consular services in India has updated its guidance for Indian students applying for emergency student visa appointments. This guidance was prompted largely by a shortage of regular visa appointments at U.S. consular posts in India, necessitating many......
19 February 2024Answer The expiration date of the F-1 visa in one’s passport typically has no impact on the F-1 status. The F-1 visa is an entry document. It generally must be valid when the person is requesting admission in F-1 status. But, if the person is......
14 February 2024Answer Yes, this is perfectly fine. There is no requirement that a foreign national currently be working for the company sponsoring the H1B. (08.Feb.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here.......
08 February 2024The Murthy Law Firm has received multiple reports that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has been erroneously denying STEM optional practical training (OPT) applications filed by F-1 students, alleging that the applicant’s degree was not in a STEM designated field. This MurthyDotCom NewsBrief......
22 January 2024Answer Foreign nationals in F status do not have a specific expiration date noted on their I-94s, as they are admitted for duration of status (D/S). These individuals maintain their nonimmigrant statuses as long as they comply with the terms and conditions of their respective......
11 January 2024Answer Sure, assuming the degree is from an accredited, nonprofit U.S. college or university, the fact that it is an online university is irrelevant. You can check the accreditation status of a U.S. university through the U.S. Department of Education website. (04.Jan.2024) Sheela Murthy and......
04 January 2024The holiday season provides many with opportunities to have a good time, and a few drinks, with friends. Those who choose to do so should arrange for a designated driver or other safe, sober transportation home. Alcohol-related arrests, not to mention serious accidents, are all......
29 December 2023Answer No, this normally would not impact an applicant’s chances of being issued an F-1 student visa. (07.Dec.2023) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. ......
07 December 2023There are two recent updates that impact how certain nonimmigrant visas are being processed at U.S. consular posts in India. The first update relates to a procedural change that impacts certain foreign nationals who scheduled nonimmigrant visa appointments in India on or after November 15,......
06 December 2023Answer Ordinarily, it is permissible to stay in the U.S. based upon a pending application to change to H-4 status, assuming the person was in valid status at the time of filing. There would typically be no requirement that the person remain enrolled in school......
22 November 2023On October 30, 2023, U.S. President Joseph Biden issued a wide ranging executive order on artificial intelligence (AI) which, in part, calls for the expansion of immigration opportunities for highly skilled foreign nationals with expertise in AI or other critical and emerging technologies to study,......
15 November 2023On October 24, 2023, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released guidance clarifying aspects of the two-year foreign residency requirement for certain J-1 visa holders. The policy update provides guidance on how the USCIS determines whether an individual has met the foreign residency requirement......
13 November 2023Answer The H1B prevailing wage requirements generally do not go into effect until the H1B petition is approved. So, this typically would not create any issues. (08.Nov.2023) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online......
09 November 2023While foreign nationals are typically mindful about confirming the permissibility of international travel prior to boarding a plane, an individual may be less mindful about another, less common form of travel – international cruises. However, like air travel, a foreign national should understand the nature......
06 November 2023On October 12, 2023, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) launched the new Enterprise Change of Address (E-COA) self-service tool for an individual to notify the USCIS of a change in address. The tool is intended to improve the speed and efficiency of updating......
19 October 2023Beginning October 1, 2023, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will exempt all I-539 applicants from paying the $85 biometrics service fee. This exemption will apply indefinitely. Background Information In 2019, the USCIS implemented a policy that required most form I-539 applicants to complete......
28 September 2023Answer If you do not take care of your biometrics appointment, your case eventually will be denied. Fortunately, you may be able to reschedule. Call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283, be prepared to provide evidence of the emergency, and hopefully they will exercise discretion......
21 September 2023On September 1, 2023, the U.S. Department of States (DOS) issued a reminder to visa applicants that all machine-readable visa fee receipts issued prior to October 1, 2022, will expire on September 30, 2023, unless immediate action is taken. If an affected individual does not......
20 September 2023Are you seeking to pursue higher education in the United States as an F-1 student? This Special Podcast, produced in association with Telugu Association of North America (TANA), is tailored just for you. Join our team of experienced immigration lawyers as they delve into the......
01 September 2023Answer In the preamble to the regulation that created the 24-month STEM OPT program, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) laid out the rule regarding travel while a STEM OPT extension is pending: “Students on STEM OPT extensions (including those whose application for a STEM......
31 August 2023Answer Generally speaking, one of the requirements for OPT eligibility is that the individual must have been enrolled in a college or university on a full-time basis for at least one full academic year. The USCIS has clarified that, for pre-completion OPT, the one-full-academic-year requirement......
31 August 2023Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) updated the guidance for how consular officers should determine whether a misrepresentation made by a foreign national is to be considered “material.” Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, if a foreign national makes a misrepresentation regarding......
14 August 2023The impact of criminal issues like DUI and shoplifting on nonimmigrant status and Lawful Permanent Residence (i.e. green card) are discussed by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in the podcast that aired 02.Aug.2023. The MP3 is available here and in the archive of our teleconferences and......
10 August 2023[Read Part 1 of this article.] This is the second in our two-part InfoArticle on the selection of one’s own attorney for immigration matters. Part 1 of this article addressed this topic in the immigrant (green card) context. Here, the selection of an attorney for......
07 August 2023Answer Ordinarily, if you transfer your F-1 SEVIS record to another program of study, you will no longer be eligible for OPT based on your previous degree. Therefore, even if the denial decision was issued in error, the USCIS would normally not be able to......
20 July 2023Each year, thousands of international students arrive in the United States to pursue higher education opportunities at U.S. universities. Researching higher education options in a foreign country can be a daunting task, especially given the thousands of academic programs available in the U.S. and the......
29 June 2023On July 15, 2023, the official U.S. Department of State (DOS) Visa Appointment Service website for India will move to a new system for U.S. visa services. The DOS has asked that a U.S. visa applicant take certain steps to better ensure the appointment and......
21 June 2023Any individual seeking an immigration benefit may experience long processing times. Although lengthy processing times are not necessarily a cause for concern, there are situations in which an individual or an employer may feel the need to take additional action and file a writ of......
19 June 2023Today, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the expansion of premium processing service for foreign nationals seeking a change to F, M, or J nonimmigrant status. The expansion of this premium processing service is being implemented in two phases. Beginning June 13, 2023,......
12 June 2023Answer Generally speaking, one must have the approved EAD prior to commencing OPT employment. (08.Jun.2023) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. Copyright © 2023,......
08 June 2023Answer Typically, there is no requirement for the F-1 student to remain in school once an application to change status to H-4 is properly filed. (01.Jun.2023) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services,......
01 June 2023F-1 status, how students can avoid violating their F-1 status, and employment options available to F-1 students are the topics discussed by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in the May 2023 podcast. The MP3 is available here and is available in the archive of our teleconferences......
24 May 2023The U.S Customs and Border Protection (CBP) initiated a “stampless” entry pilot program in April 2022, and is now in the process of implementing the program at all airports, seaports, and land ports of entry (POEs) as part of a larger effort to streamline the......
15 May 2023Answer There are three basic requirements to qualify for L-1: (1) the foreign entity and U.S. entity must have common ownership and control; (2) the person must work in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge position for the related entity abroad for at least one......
04 May 2023The U.S. Department of State (DOS) recently announced that first time F and M student visa applicants now can be issued visas up to 365 days in advance of the program start date listed on the I-20 form. Prior to this change, F and M......
03 April 2023The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is expanding premium processing service for F-1 students applying for employment authorization documents (EADs) pursuant to OPT and STEM OPT extensions. The USCIS goal is to offer a more predictable process for timely adjudication for F-1 students applying......
29 March 2023The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released updated policy guidance related to employment authorization for F-1 nonimmigrant students who qualify for special student relief (SSR) based on severe economic hardship. More specifically, the guidance serves to clarify the maximum length of time the......
08 March 2023Answer No. If OPT is not used following the completion of one program, that OPT period cannot be added to OPT available through the completion of a subsequent program. (15.Feb.2023) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on......
16 February 2023Answer A person typically qualifies for a new period of OPT after each educational level. The “master’s” period of OPT would be exhausted after completing the Computer Engineering degree. So, a new period of OPT would not be available based on the completion of an......
26 January 2023Answer The visa foil is just an entry document; one’s valid F-1 status is governed by the SEVIS database. A valid visa foil is not required for a new program. It will only be necessary if one seeks to reenter the U.S. after foreign travel.......
26 January 2023The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that the premium processing service soon will be made available for all new and pending I-140 petitions filed under the EB1(c) multinational executive and manager category and EB2 national interest waiver (NIW) I-140 petitions. The USCIS......
18 January 2023Answer To qualify for the master’s cap, one must have a master’s degree or higher from a qualifying U.S. university. This applies, even if you will not be using that degree to qualify for the H1B position. (04.Jan.2023) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide......
05 January 2023Many aspects of immigration law are tied to expiration dates, grace periods, filing deadlines, and other date-driven matters. So, it is vitally important to keep informed and on top of calendar items and timelines specific to one’s immigration process. Many serious problems can be avoided......
04 January 2023When an individual applies for an F-1, H1B, or other nonimmigrant visa at the U.S. consulate abroad, it can be fairly common to be refused initially under Section 221(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). This broad section applies to a wide variety of......
05 December 2022For people not accustomed to the open displays of merchandise typical in the United States, the opportunity to pick up a few small items could prove tempting. Many newcomers to this country do not realize that seemingly minor crimes can have very serious immigration, as......
23 November 2022The U.S. Department of Education (DOE) terminated recognition of the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) as an accrediting agency on August 19, 2022. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), in turn, recently issued an alert explaining the immigration impact this loss......
21 November 2022Legalization or decriminalization of marijuana at the state level can mislead noncitizens into thinking using marijuana in accordance with state law is legal. Marijuana, however, is a controlled substance under federal law. Therefore, the use, sale, purchase, or even the mere possession of marijuana, in......
15 November 2022Mr. Don Heflin, the Minister Counselor for Consular Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in India, recently conducted a question-and-answer session to update the public on the state of visa appointments at U.S. consulates in India. Staffing Levels Mr. Heflin noted that staffing levels at the......
03 November 2022Under U.S. immigration law, if a foreign national applies for a nonimmigrant visa or for admission to the United States as a nonimmigrant, the application often can only be approved if the individual can demonstrate a lack of immigrant intent. There are a few notable......
31 October 2022The D.C. Circuit Court recently ruled in favor of the U.S. government in a lawsuit brought by a worker’s union, holding the F-1 optional practical training (OPT) and STEM OPT programs were lawfully enacted. The union unsuccessfully argued that the statute passed by Congress that......
27 October 2022Answer The fact that the I-130 petition was filed for consular processing would not prevent the beneficiary from instead applying for adjustment of status. However, until the priority date is current, it generally is not possible to file an I-485 application. (19.Oct.2022) Sheela Murthy and......
20 October 2022Answer Unfortunately, this generally is not permissible. If a person uses any amount of OPT following completion of one level of education, that person would not qualify for OPT again unless the person changes to a higher educational level (e.g., PhD program.) (08.Sep.2022) Sheela Murthy......
08 September 2022On August 10, 2022, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) shared a briefing where Ms. Julie M. Stufft, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Visa Services in the Bureau of Consular Affairs, discussed the status of immigrant and nonimmigrant visa processing at U.S. embassies and consulates around......
29 August 2022Answer Generally speaking, yes, it is possible to be self-employed during the initial OPT period, even if the position is unpaid. (24.Aug.2022) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more......
25 August 2022Answer Having a pending I-485 would not automatically prevent a person from applying for a change of status to F-1. But, the USCIS would likely deny the F-1 application based on immigrant intent. (24.Aug.2022) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the......
25 August 2022In 2004, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirmed the continued validity of an approved change-of-status petition with a future start date, when a person travels abroad after such approval but reenters the United States before the future start date is reached. This clarification......
08 August 2022Answer If you earn a U.S. master’s degree from a qualifying university, you normally would qualify for the master’s cap. There is no requirement that a person be in F-1 status while attending the school in order to qualify for the master’s cap. (03.Aug.2022) Sheela......
04 August 2022The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced two accommodations being made related to the COVID-19 pandemic. First, the USCIS again has extended the response time flexibility, initially announced on March 20, 2020. Second, the USCIS has made permanent the policy that allows all......
04 August 2022The U.S. consulates in India have recently altered the method for a visa applicant to appear for a follow-up appointment following a 221(g) refusal. The new process appears to be an improvement over the prior method, which required the applicant to schedule the follow-up appointment......
02 August 2022Answer No, there normally would be no need to file an application with the USCIS to move in F-1 status from a bachelor’s program to a master’s program. (20.Jul.2022) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our......
20 July 2022Answer No, unfortunately, it typically is not possible to update a pending F-1 change-of-status application based on a new program of study. Assuming you have already turned 21 (and therefore are no longer eligible for H-4 status through a parent), filing a new application to......
20 July 2022Foreign nationals may be deemed ineligible for admission (i.e. inadmissible) to the United States for a variety of reasons. Common grounds of inadmissibility include the following: medical grounds, criminal grounds, and immigration violations (including fraud or material misrepresentation in connection with an immigration benefit). In......
05 July 2022Answer Yes, generally speaking, if the position otherwise meets the OPT requirements, it is possible to work as an unpaid intern during the initial OPT period. However, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has indicated that unpaid internships during a STEM OPT extension are......
30 June 2022Answer There is no requirement that a person be in H1B status for a company to initiate a PERM case for that individual. (01.Jun.2022) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here.......
02 June 2022Most foreign nationals in the United States must report address changes to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The legal timeframe for this notification is just ten days. The process is simple and free, and helps to facilitate proper delivery of official notices and......
26 May 2022Answer Yes, it is possible. However, each employer must fully comply with the standard STEM OPT requirements, including the requirement that it employ the individual for a minimum of 20 hours per week. (04.May.2022) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the......
05 May 2022The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has extended the guidance issued in March 2020 for the 2022-23 academic year. This guidance allows certain continuing F and M students to enroll in more distance learning (e.g., online classes) than normally allowed. This accommodation was made......
02 May 2022Regular readers of MurthyDotCom have likely come across the terms: lawful status, period of authorized stay, and unlawful presence. These related, yet distinct concepts can play a very important role in one’s immigration matters. However, the differences can be subtle and complex. In many situations,......
19 April 2022Today, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced multiple initiatives to help streamline the adjudication of benefit requests and reduce significant backlogs. Most importantly, the agency announced that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has finalized the rule expanding premium processing to additional application......
29 March 2022Answer There are no special visas available specifically based on the invasion of Ukraine. However, depending on the circumstances, there may be options to apply for a nonimmigrant visa. One option may be to apply for a B-1/B-2 visa. One hurdle with this option is......
17 March 2022A U.S. federal district court has approved a preliminary settlement agreement for former students of the University of Northern New Jersey (UNNJ), a fictitious university created by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in 2012. Following the closure of UNNJ in 2016, the DHS......
14 February 2022The Biden Administration has announced several immigration actions being taken to attract and retain science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) talent in the United States. The goal of these actions is to make the United States a more attractive option for students studying STEM and......
09 February 2022Answer Assuming the master’s was issued by a public university or other nonprofit institution that is accredited, yes, you likely qualify. There is no requirement that one be in F-1 status in order to qualify for the master’s cap. (02.Feb.2022) Sheela Murthy and other senior......
03 February 2022The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released guidance to clarify that if a foreign national files an application to extend / change nonimmigrant status (form I-539) online, and biometrics are required, the USCIS will transmit the biometrics notice solely via the applicant’s USCIS......
20 January 2022Answer A number of special allowances have been made due to the ongoing pandemic. One such allowance is that foreign nationals engaged in OPT or STEM OPT are permitted to work remotely from outside the United States if the employer has an office outside of......
12 January 2022Current trends in the Biden Administration, including USCIS adjudications, visa issuance at the consulates, and issues at ports of entry after traveling abroad are discussed by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in this podcast from 05.Jan.2022. The MP3 is available here and in the archive of......
11 January 2022Answer First off, note that the general itinerary requirement that had been in place was rescinded in 2020. So, there is a good chance your employer is not required to submit an itinerary. That being said, if your employer is submitting an itinerary, there is......
29 December 2021The U.S. Department of State (DOS) is temporarily making it much easier for many nonimmigrant visa applicants to qualify for a waiver of the in-person interview requirement. Commonly referred to as the “drop box” process, the rule expanding eligibility is scheduled to remain in effect......
28 December 2021As of November 8, 2021, in order to board a flight bound for the United States, foreign nationals are generally required to provide evidence of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Additionally, irrespective of citizenship and vaccination status, all air passengers ages 2 or older must......
06 December 2021Answer Generally speaking, it is possible to remain on OPT rather than apply for a change to H1B with the previous employer. Typically, this would not have a negative impact on the individual. (02.Dec.2021) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the......
02 December 2021Effective November 8, 2021, the Biden Administration is rescinding the COVID-19 related travel restrictions based on several presidential proclamations. In its place, President Biden has issued a proclamation that requires nearly all nonimmigrant international air travelers to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before being admitted......
04 November 2021The Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman (CIS Ombudsman) has released a tip sheet to guide customers in communicating with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The USCIS has implemented a number of changes to reduce reliance on live assistance by telephone......
25 October 2021Answer There is no requirement that a person take classes while in F-1 status in order to qualify for the master’s cap. (13.Oct.2021) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access......
14 October 2021Answer No, ordinarily, it is not possible to apply for a visa “stamp” from within the United States. (13.Oct.2021) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. ......
14 October 2021The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has a centralized traveler redress program intended to help individuals who have had problems during the travel screening process. The program, known as the DHS Traveler Redress Inquiry Program, or “DHS TRIP,” provides a single point of contact......
11 October 2021Answer This should not be a cause for concern. F-1 students now are generally eligible for blanket waivers. Therefore, no annotation is needed. (02.Sep.2021) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here.......
02 September 2021Answer Initially, the guidance from the U.S. Department of State (DOS) regarding F-1 students returning to the U.S. was extremely vague. Fortunately, the DOS has recently clarified that F-1 students (including those on CPT or OPT) who will resume their programs on or after August......
19 August 2021The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has signed a settlement agreement with a group of F-1 students affected by long delays in processing of optional practical training (OPT) and 24-month STEM OPT extension applications. The settlement agreement potentially benefits the entire class of OPT......
18 August 2021The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires foreign nationals to submit biometrics in-person at an application support center (ASC) before granting certain categories of immigration benefits. After the USCIS schedules the biometrics appointment, if the individual fails to attend and does not take any......
12 August 2021Today, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that foreign nationals applying for a change of status to F-1 are no longer required to maintain nonimmigrant status until within 30 days of the actual (i.e. deferred) program start date. Rather, the USCIS has reverted......
20 July 2021Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, foreign nationals traveling to the United States from certain countries have been subject to travel restrictions based on several presidential proclamations. The presidential proclamations currently in effect suspend entry to the United States of certain individuals who were present in......
08 July 2021The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has designated Burma (Myanmar) for temporary protected status (TPS) and provided flexibility for employment authorization to Burmese F-1 students based on severe economic hardship. These accommodations are due to the ongoing political crisis in Burma. The Burma designation for......
14 June 2021The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has reinstated its policy to defer to previously issued approvals when adjudicating petitions requesting extensions of nonimmigrant status if all the terms and conditions remain the same. This marks a return to the long-standing policy of deference to......
14 May 2021Answer The suspension of travel from India due to the pandemic only applies to people who were physically in India during the past 14 days. If a person travels to a third country, such as Mexico, for two weeks, the travel ban would not prevent......
06 May 2021President Biden’s Proclamation suspending travel from India, first announced on Friday, April 30, 2021, is now effective. The Proclamation bans the entry of nonimmigrants who were physically present in India during the last 14-days, and is effective until further notice. Importantly, this prohibition on entry......
05 May 2021Answer Given the huge spike in COVID-19 cases in India, it definitely is possible new travel restrictions will be implemented. As of yet, no such restrictions have been announced, other than the requirement that travelers present a recent negative COVID-19 test before boarding a plane......
28 April 2021Answer No, applying for a STEM OPT extension typically would have no impact on an H1B registration case. (15.Apr.2021) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. ......
15 April 2021Current trends with visa issuance at the consulates and dropbox and issues at the port of entry after travel are the topics for discussion by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in this podcast, recorded April 07, 2021. The MP3 is available here, and is listed in......
15 April 2021With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the availability of visa services at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad remains limited. The severity of backlogs in visa interviews varies based on epidemic control protocols of each country. U.S. embassies and consulates are taking the necessary precautions to protect......
14 April 2021Foreign nationals requesting admission to the United States and indeed, even U.S. citizens, may face additional scrutiny at the United States border. This includes the physical border itself or the functional equivalent of the border such as an international airport, port of entry, or border......
08 April 2021Answer Getting married to a person with a green card would have no direct impact on one’s F-1 status. However, if applying for certain immigration benefits, such as an F-1 visa at a consulate, it is possible this could create problems related to immigrant intent.......
01 April 2021With the arrival of fiscal year 2022 (FY22) H1B cap season, foreign nationals and employers should be aware of some important nuances of the H1B advanced-degree exemption, often referred to as the “master’s cap.” Clearly, the 20,000 H1B cap exemptions can be quite valuable for......
08 March 2021Answer Accredited, nonprofit universities are generally cap-exempt employers. If a person is going to be employed by a cap-exempt employer, the standard H1B cap timelines would not apply. There is no need to submit a registration, apply in the lottery, etc. The petition can normally......
04 March 2021The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is providing additional flexibilities to qualifying F-1 students filing form I-765 based on OPT. These flexibilities are being provided because of ongoing processing delays at the USCIS and are available only to I-765 applications submitted to the USCIS......
04 March 2021If you are an F-1 student, you are probably aware that there are restrictions on working. When you initially obtained your SEVIS I-20 form and F-1 visa, you had to show that you could afford to go to school without working, since F-1 students generally......
17 February 2021President Biden is expected to sign an executive order (EO) on Tuesday, February 2, 2021 to modernize the U.S. immigration system. No further details on the forthcoming executive order have been provided. The President had been scheduled to sign this EO today, but delayed it......
29 January 2021The remaining immigration policies of President Trump and the Biden Administration’s anticipated immigration plans are the topic discussed by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in the first podcast of 2021, recorded January 6th. The MP3 is available here and in the archive of our teleconferences and......
13 January 2021The U.S. Department of State (DOS), which is responsible for all U.S. embassies and consulates, has provided an updated summary on its plan for the phased resumption of routine visa service across the globe. While this provides the general plan on how it will go......
06 January 2021The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a statement this week, acknowledging delays in issuing receipt notices for cases filed at USCIS lockbox facilities. The USCIS attributes these delays to a significant increase in recent filings, along with a reduced processing capacity caused by......
17 December 2020Answer Generally speaking, once a person has been granted a change to H1B status, the STEM OPT terminates. It typically is not possible to use any remaining period of OPT (or STEM OPT.) (10.Dec.2020). Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law.......
10 December 2020Legalization or decriminalization of marijuana or other narcotics at the state level can mislead noncitizens into thinking using such drugs in accordance with state law is legal. Marijuana, hallucinogenic mushrooms, and many other drugs are controlled substance under federal law. Therefore, the use, sale, purchase,......
10 December 2020This morning, Joseph R. Biden, Jr. secured enough electoral votes to win the 2020 presidential election. While President Trump is disputing the results, his claims of election fraud appear to be without merit, and have little chance of overturning the election. President-Elect Biden is expected......
07 November 2020On October 21, 2020, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced that the agency had arrested 15 students in F-1 status with approved optional practical training (OPT), who allegedly committed fraud by reporting employment with “companies that don’t exist.” In addition, ICE reportedly intends......
26 October 2020On September 30, 2020, the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2021 and Other Extensions Act was signed into law, funding the federal government through December 11, 2020. Included in the bill is a provision that dramatically changes the premium processing service offered by the U.S. Citizenship and......
01 October 2020This evening, the U.S. Congress passed a bill to fund the federal government through December 11, 2020. President Trump is expected to sign the bill into law this evening. In addition to funding the federal government, the bill also includes some significant changes to the......
30 September 2020Today, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) proposed eliminating the D/S (“duration of status”) designation routinely issued on I-94s for nonimmigrants in F, J, or I status. If the proposed regulation is enacted, I-94s for these categories would instead be issued with a set......
24 September 2020The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has issued a new broadcast message advising designated school officials (DSOs) that it will soon begin issuing notices to F-1 students participating in optional practical training (OPT) if the student does not mention information on the employer in......
03 September 2020U.S. consular sections across India have resumed accepting drop box applications to renew F, M, J, H, and L visas from qualifying applicants. In addition to the standard drop box requirements, H and L visa applicants must qualify for one of the exceptions to the......
28 August 2020The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued a reminder to universities and F-1 students employed pursuant to post-completion optional practical training (OPT) to ensure that changes in employer information are updated in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Per the USCIS......
24 August 2020Effective Monday, August 17, 2020, the U.S. consulates in India will have a limited number of slots available for F and J visa applicants. Per the announcement, emergency student and exchange visitor appointment requests submitted prior to August 12 will be processed first. The consulates......
14 August 2020Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that it will “adjust USCIS fees by a weighted average increase of 20 percent to help recover its operational costs.” The final rule is expected to be published in the Federal Register on August 3,......
31 July 2020The dean of Harvard University has advised its students that the legal settlement Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) reached with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) regarding online courses does not apply to first-year students entering in F-1 status. This means that......
22 July 2020As previously reported, on July 14, 2020, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reinstated the March 2020 policy, allowing F-1 and M-1 students to temporarily take all courses online during the COVID-19 pandemic. Following this announcement, however, numerous designated school officials (DSOs) have reported hearing......
20 July 2020Answer One in this situation could attempt to have the company file an H1B petition, requesting a change of status to H1B. However, there are some legal issues to this strategy that first should be discussed with a qualified attorney. (13.Jul.2020) Sheela Murthy and other......
15 July 2020This afternoon, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reached an agreement with Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to reinstate the March 2020 policy, allowing F-1 and M-1 students to temporarily take all courses online during the COVID-19 pandemic. Harvard and MIT......
14 July 2020The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has announced via Twitter that “[b]eginning July 15, US Embassies and Consulates may begin the phased resumption of routine visa services depending on local conditions.” No further details have been provided. As previously reported, the consulates are not expected......
13 July 2020As previously reported by MurthyDotCom, Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are suing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in an effort to block the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) from ending the temporary rule that allows schools to have F-1......
10 July 2020Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have filed a lawsuit against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in an effort to prevent the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) from ending the temporary rule that allows schools to have F-1 and M-1......
08 July 2020The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) is in the process of ending the temporary rule that allows schools to have F-1 and M-1 students take courses exclusively online. This rule was implemented in March 2020 because universities across the nation suddenly had to close......
07 July 2020On Monday, July 6, 2020, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program announced modifications to the rules applicable for F-1 and M-1 students taking online classes. The modifications are effective from the fall 2020 semester. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security will publish a Temporary Final......
06 July 2020The Murthy Law Firm receives many inquiries from individuals who have planned a major event, like marriage, travel, or school, who lastly think to seek advice on how to address these matters related to their immigration. Frustration often ensues when they learn of the immigration......
06 July 2020Last night, President Trump amended his June 22, 2020 executive order in a small, but significant manner that clarifies and potentially increases the classes of nonimmigrants who are subject to the order. The original version of the executive order stated that, if a foreign national......
30 June 2020Answer We have heard several rumors recently that the President will issue a proclamation as early as June 15th (or June 11th, according to other online sources) that would temporarily prevent foreign nationals from entering the U.S. in H1B, L-1, H2B, or J-1 status. According......
09 June 2020This afternoon, President Trump signed an executive order that will temporarily bar admission of certain F-1 students and J-1 researchers from China. Effective June 1, 2020, any citizen of China involved with China’s “military-civil fusion strategy” will not be admitted in F-1 or J-1 status.......
29 May 2020Answer Forbes reported today that the Trump Administration is expected to issue an executive order “soon” that would impact certain high-skilled nonimmigrant workers. The presumption is that, if such an order were to be issued, it would focus on foreign nationals requesting admission, as opposed......
28 May 2020Answer The consulates are run by the U.S. Department of State (DOS), not the USCIS. So, the USCIS announcement has no impact on the consulates. The U.S. consulates across the globe likely will not all open at the same time. Rather, the U.S. consulates in......
28 May 2020The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that routine in-person services at its field offices, asylum offices, and application support centers (ASCs) will resume on June 4, 2020. Per the announcement, the USCIS is following guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control......
27 May 2020While some aspects of immigration have changed in significant ways in the years since MurthyDotCom began publishing articles in 1994, there is much that is still the same. From time to time, we at the Murthy Law Firm refer our clients to articles, like this......
27 May 2020Answer Generally speaking, a person on STEM OPT can only work for a company that is enrolled in the e-verify program. Only U.S. companies are able to enroll in this program. Therefore, it does not seem this arrangement would be possible for a person on......
21 May 2020Sheela Murthy, President & CEO of the Murthy law Firm, is joined by Managing Attorney Aron Finkelstein for a lively & engaging discussion in this podcast regarding immigration options for individuals and families in the COVID-19 climate. The conversation was recorded specifically for an Indian......
30 April 2020The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) has created a shareable flyer to help stakeholders understand the implication of President Trump’s proclamation suspending the entry of certain immigrants into the United States. The Murthy Law Firm is sharing this flyer with our readers to help ensure......
24 April 2020The Congressional Research Service (CRS), which works exclusively for the United States Congress to provide nonpartisan policy and legal analysis, has released a report confirming that many nonimmigrants are eligible to receive recovery rebates (frequently referred to as stimulus checks) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief,......
08 April 2020The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) filed a federal lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), asking the court to order the DHS to “toll any and all deadlines for initial applications, responses to any and all requests for evidence or other responses......
03 April 2020The U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced on March 30, 2020, that previously submitted biometrics will be reused to process applications for employment authorization (Form I-765), submitted by any applicant who had an appointment scheduled with an application support center (ASC) on or......
30 March 2020The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which is part of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), recently issued a broadcast message to advise SEVP-certified schools that they may need to adapt procedures and policies to alleviate health concerns associated with the COVID-19 epidemic.......
30 March 2020The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia recently ruled in IT Serve Alliance v. L. Francis Cissna that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) overstepped its authority in issuing its February 2018 memorandum heightening the evidentiary requirements for H1B petitions filed by......
26 March 2020The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that, effective March 21, 2020, it will begin accepting all benefit forms and documents with reproduced signatures. Per the announcement, “[t]his means that a document may be scanned, faxed, photocopied, or similarly reproduced provided that the......
20 March 2020Attorneys at the Murthy Law Firm will hold a special teleconference on March 25, 2020 at 2:00pm (Eastern Time, U.S.). They will discuss the impacts that the COVID-19 pandemic is having on U.S. immigration. Visit this page the morning of March 25th for details on......
19 March 2020Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) has suspended routine nonimmigrant and immigrant visa service at U.S. consulates in most countries around the globe. The DOS is unable to predict when normal service will resume. Applicants with urgent need to travel......
19 March 2020Last night, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that it is suspending in-person services at its field offices, asylum offices, and application support centers (ASCs), until at least April 1st. This action has been taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The USCIS......
18 March 2020The U.S. Department of State announced today that, effective Monday, March 16, 2020, all nonimmigrant and immigrant visa appointments at U.S. Mission India posts – which includes the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, and all U.S. consulates in India – have been canceled. This measure......
13 March 2020Answer Health insurance obtained through the Affordable Care ACT (ACA), commonly referred to as Obamacare, is not considered a positive or negative factor for public charge purposes. (26.Feb.2020) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE......
27 February 2020The U.S. Supreme Court has lifted the injunction in Illinois that had prevented the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from implementing the new public charge rule on residents of that state. The Supreme Court had previously lifted several nationwide injunctions against the rule. Accordingly,......
24 February 2020In most circumstances, anyone applying for a nonimmigrant visa must apply in person at a U.S. consulate or embassy and be interviewed by a consular officer. In the context of applying to renew a visa, however, the interview requirement may be waived under the visa......
13 February 2020President Trump has issued a proclamation that bars entry to the United States of most foreign nationals who were physically present in China, not including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau, within the 14 days immediately prior to arrival in the United......
07 February 2020In this recording from 05 Feb 2020, Murthy Law Firm attorneys discuss matters related to various types of employment authorization for students in F-1 status, including CPT and OPT (both the initial 12-month OPT and the 24-month STEM extension), placement of F-1 student workers at......
07 February 2020Today, a federal district court judge issued a nationwide permanent injunction against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from enforcing the August 9, 2018, policy memorandum by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that sought to greatly expand the situations in which nonimmigrants......
06 February 2020On February 24, 2020, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which includes the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), will begin implementing the public charge rule that was published in the Federal Register in August 2019.......
31 January 2020Answer International travel would have no impact on a pending (or selected) H1B registration. Travel would only potentially be an issue if the registration is selected and the H1B petition is filed requesting a change of status. (23.Jan.2020) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide......
23 January 2020The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which is part of the U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement (ICE), recently issued a broadcast message reminding designated school officials (DSOs) that all form I-20s must be issued directly to the F-1 student, parent, or legal guardian. Other......
23 January 2020Answer Generally speaking, a person is required to live in the previous country of residency – in your case, India. Living in Australia normally would not meet this requirement. (26.Dec.2019) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on......
26 December 2019As previously reported on MurthyDotCom, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a new proposed rule on Thursday, November 14, 2019, outlining significant increases for many U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) filing fees. The increases will result in a weighted average increase of......
02 December 2019Representatives of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) recently met with representatives from the U.S. Department of State’s Visa Office (VO) to discuss current immigration policies and procedures. Prior to the meeting, AILA submitted written questions to the VO, to which the DOS responded in......
04 November 2019Answer Normally, an H1B change-of-status denial would have no impact on one’s current status or eligibility to continue working in STEM OPT. (30.Oct.2019) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access......
31 October 2019A student in F-1 status typically is eligible to participate in optional practical training (OPT) upon completion of the degree program or, in some circumstances, before graduation. The purpose of OPT employment is to provide the foreign national student with an opportunity to apply the......
31 October 2019Answer Once a person has started working pursuant to STEM OPT and then changes to H1B status, any remaining STEM OPT time generally is abandoned. (23.Oct.2019) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services,......
24 October 2019On October 11, 2019, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) published an interim final rule in the Federal Register, entitled Visas: Ineligibility Based on Public Charge Grounds. Once this interim final rule goes into effect, it will greatly expand the categories of public benefits considered......
24 October 2019The U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced today that the interim final rule regarding visa ineligibility based on public charge grounds is not yet being implemented. Per the announcement, “visa applicants are not requested to take any additional steps at this time and should attend......
15 October 2019This afternoon, a federal district court judge issued a nationwide injunction against the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) from enforcing the new public charge rule. The public charge rule had been scheduled to go into effect on October 15, 2019. The injunction specifically prohibits......
11 October 2019On October 11, 2019, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) will publish an interim final rule to amend the regulations regarding how consular officers determine whether a foreign national is likely to become a public charge, and therefore ineligible for a visa. This rule will......
10 October 2019Answer Generally speaking, if an individual uses any period of OPT following the completion of a master’s degree, that person is not eligible for any OPT following the completion of a second master’s degree. (19.Sep.2019) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies......
19 September 2019Changing status to H1B often involves a lengthy and somewhat unpredictable process. Because of the annual cap and uncertainties of lottery selection, many foreign nationals consider alternative processes as backup plans. As a result, there are a number of situations in which a foreign national......
13 September 2019Issues related to the maintenance of F-1 and H1B statuses for employees, as well as the latest trends from the current Administration, are discussed by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in this teleconference, which aired September 4, 2019. The MP3 is available here and in the......
09 September 2019Recent college graduates in F-1 status are sometimes able to bridge the time between the expiration of their optional practical training (OPT) and the October 1st start date of H1B status through a benefit known as “cap gap” OPT. This benefit extends the OPT period......
06 September 2019Answer Ordinarily, if an application to change status is denied, this would not impact one’s existing F-2 status. (21.Aug.2019) In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law in real time. For details on chat participation,......
21 August 2019The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) implemented an increase in application fees charged by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) for both students and schools. The changed fees relate to the payments students must submit with the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System......
17 July 2019Answer In general, a petitioner may withdraw a request for “change of status” while replying to an RFE, and request approval only for consular notification (i.e., consular processing). (24.Jun.2019) In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies......
24 June 2019The focus of this teleconference is recent trends in requests for evidence (RFEs) for H1B petitions after cap season. Attorneys from the Murthy Law Firm discuss issues related to the right to control, specialty occupations, CPT & OPT, etc, and provide tips for preparing a......
17 June 2019Answer A STEM OPT recipient who is employed by a non E-Verify employer generally would be out of status. A foreign national in this situation needs to talk to a qualified attorney immediately to discuss legal options. (10.Jun.2019) In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela......
10 June 2019The U.S. State Department (DOS) has implemented changes to electronic forms DS-160, Application for a Nonimmigrant Visa, and DS-260, Application for an Immigrant Visa, that go into effect immediately. These applications will now request information about the social media username or handle used by an......
04 June 2019On May 10, 2019, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updated the Adjudicator’s Field Manual (AFM) to reduce the circumstances under which the USCIS will consider granting a case expedited treatment. In general, the USCIS has the authority to grant an expedite request on......
03 June 2019Answer While on your STEM-OPT, you must be working for an E-Verify enrolled employer. Any change in employer must be reported to your DSO and the correct I-983 paperwork submitted. Failure to take these steps could result in a determination of status violation and related......
03 June 2019Answer An individual is permitted an aggregate of 90 days of unemployment in the initial practical training period. If s/he has not had more than 90 days of unemployment and has received a STEM-OPT extension, the individual is entitled to 60 days more, or an......
03 June 2019When filing for a STEM OPT extension, an international student must complete and submit a training plan for STEM OPT students (form I-983) to the academic institution’s designated school official (DSO). The form includes sections for both the student and the employer to complete and......
13 May 2019Today, a federal district court judge ordered immigration officials to temporarily cease enforcement of the August 9, 2018 policy memorandum that greatly expanded the situations in which those in F, J, or M status may begin accruing unlawful presence. This order stems from a lawsuit......
03 May 2019Answer The requirements for the H1B master’s quota are straightforward – the degree must be from a U.S. university, and the university must be a public college, or a nonprofit college. One cannot use a degree from a for-profit college to apply under the master’s......
29 April 2019Beginning in May 2019, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will begin issuing form I-94 arrival/departure records with alphanumeric “numbers” (i.e., composed of letters and numbers). This change will have no impact on the validity of I-94 cards and numbers issued prior to the......
29 April 2019Answer One needs to be VERY careful with this. Although many states have legalized marijuana, it is still classified as a Schedule A drug under federal law (the same classification as drugs like heroin and cocaine). Even if state law allows the use of marijuana......
01 April 2019Many nonimmigrant visa classifications allow children of the principal to apply for dependent status. For instance, an H1B worker’s dependents typically may be admitted in H-4 status, while the dependents of an F-1 student may request admission in F-2 status. Upon reaching the age of......
01 April 2019Answer Although it is possible to have more than one change-of-status application pending at the same time (seeking different visa classification), it is not possible to hold more than one nonimmigrant status at the same time. The USCIS follows the last-action rule, whereby the last......
18 March 2019Under the Trump Administration, a troubling trend has emerged with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that evidences a radical reinterpretation of regulations regarding the use of curricular practical training (CPT) and optional practical training (OPT) by F-1 students in certain circumstances. The USCIS......
13 March 2019While the teleconference series offered by the Murthy Law Firm is designed for employers and their representatives, employees and to those considering launching startups may be interested in this information, as well. In this teleconference, recorded February 06, 2019, Murthy Law Firm attorneys discuss matters......
07 March 2019The application to extend / change nonimmigrant status (form I-539) is undergoing several significant changes. Effective March 22, 2019, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will only accept the updated version of the form. In addition, a new supplement, form I-539A, will be released,......
06 March 20191) We have heard that there was a raid on students of a certain university called the University of Farmington in Michigan. What is the background on this university? The University of Farmington (“the University”) was apparently set up by the U.S. federal government, in......
31 January 2019The Murthy Law Firm has received numerous reports that F-1 students currently enrolled at University of Farmington, in Michigan, began being taken into custody on the evening of January 29, 2019. The students at risk appear to be those who transferred to the school from......
30 January 2019Answer The validity of the visa foil in your passport does not necessarily control the validity of your stay and authorized activities (work, travel) in the United States. It is possible that an I-94 can exceed the validity of a visa foil. Furthermore, different nonimmigrant......
28 January 2019A new online fee calculator has been added to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website to help stakeholders properly calculate the amount owed when applying for certain immigration benefits. This calculator is designed to help reduce the number of applications and petitions the......
21 January 2019Answer The STEM extension must be received by the USCIS on or before the last day of one’s initial OPT period. There are no provisions for late filing or for extending the deadline, so if this date is missed, the STEM extension will be abandoned.......
07 January 2019Answer 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......
17 December 2018Anna Stepanova, Assistant Managing Attorney and Member at the Murthy Law Firm, recently had an article published by the Maryland State Bar Association (MSBA). While the article is written for attorneys, we share this with our readers who may be interested in a more detailed......
13 December 2018Answer One in F-1 status must normally be a full-time student, which is defined by the school. (05.Nov.2018) In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law in real time. For details on chat participation, click......
05 November 2018The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA), which is part of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), periodically publishes an updated list of agency rulemaking activity. This list provides some basic information on regulations being worked on by various government agencies. The agency......
29 October 2018The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a proposed regulation regarding inadmissibility on public charge grounds. A public charge is a person who is deemed likely to become financially dependent on public benefits. Generally speaking, a person applying for lawful permanent residence (commonly......
25 October 2018Answer It is not unusual with longer names for parts of the name to be truncated on the EAD. It should not affect your ability to begin working on that EAD. (22.Oct.2018) In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide......
22 October 2018In recent months, attorneys at the Murthy Law Firm have been hearing from a number of people who have had their applications for dependent visas (e.g., F-2, H-4) denied. The cases involve visa applications filed prior to the couple’s completion of all of the marriage......
10 October 2018The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is scheduled to publish a proposed rule on Wednesday, October 10, 2018, entitled Inadmissibility on Public Charge Grounds. This rule would greatly expand the categories of public benefits looked at to determine whether a foreign national may be......
05 October 2018This evening, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that the policy memorandum on the issuance of notices to appear (NTAs) will be phased in incrementally, beginning on October 1, 2018. Effective October 1st, the USCIS “… may issue NTAs on denied status-impacting applications,......
26 September 2018The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is scheduled to hold a teleconference on Thursday, September 27, 2018, from 2 to 3 p.m. (Eastern Time, U.S.) to discuss the June 28, 2018, policy memorandum on the issuance of notices to appears (NTAs). More details on......
25 September 2018Answer In general, self-employment is permissible during the initial 12-month period of OPT. Self-employment normally is not permissible during a STEM OPT extension, however. (24.Sep.2018) In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law in real......
24 September 2018Answer MTRs are currently very slow – generally at least 6-12 months. (24.Sep.2018) In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law in real time. For details on chat participation, click here. Access more FAQs here.......
24 September 2018The Trump Administration announced over the weekend that it aims to substantially expand the number of foreign nationals who may be inadmissible to the United States for risk of becoming a “public charge” (i.e. a person who is likely to become financially dependent on public......
23 September 2018The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released a table of the national average processing times by fiscal year for various types of forms, through the first half of FY18. The U.S. government fiscal year runs from October 1st through September 30th. The data shows that......
20 September 2018Answer It is permissible to attend classes in H1B status, as long as one continues to work in the H1B position pursuant to the terms of the H1B petition. (18.Sep.2018) In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that......
18 September 2018On August 18, 2026, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued extensive new policy guidance explaining how the agency will apply the public charge ground of inadmissibility. The guidance implements the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) final rule published on July 20, 2026, which......
18 August 2026The Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) issued a precedential decision on August 13, 2026, holding that a departure from the United States under advance parole is a “departure” for purposes of the three- and ten-year unlawful-presence bars. In Matter of Delcarmen-Lara, 29 I&N Dec. 830......
13 August 2026In some cases, USCIS approves an employment-based Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, but later determines that an immigrant visa number was not available when the application was approved. USCIS may then issue a Notice of Intent to Rescind (NOIR), even......
13 August 2026Answer The likely explanation is that USCIS is revoking no-longer-needed five-year EADs/APs tied to I-485 applications which have been approved. These revocations generally are not ground for concern. (11.Aug.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE......
11 August 2026On August 5, 2026, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a Policy Alert revising its guidance regarding the evidence required with initial benefit requests and the circumstances under which officers may issue, or decline to issue, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), and Notices of......
05 August 2026When an individual applies for lawful permanent resident (LPR) status (commonly, a green card) in the United States, certain family members also may qualify for LPR status as derivative beneficiaries. Such family members typically include the principal applicant’s spouse and any unmarried children under the......
05 August 2026Answer You may still have a conviction for immigration purposes. A conviction for immigration purposes can exist even if the court withholds adjudication and later dismisses the case, so long as the person entered a guilty plea, no contest plea, or admitted sufficient facts, and......
28 July 2026The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has released the August 2026 Visa Bulletin. As fiscal year (FY) 2026 enters its final two months, the bulletin reflects limited movement across most employment- and family-based immigrant visa categories. While several categories advanced modestly, others remained unchanged or......
20 July 2026The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a final rule rescinding the public charge regulation issued during the Biden administration, which has governed public charge determinations in adjustment of status applications since 2022. The new rule, published by the Department of Homeland Security......
16 July 2026Trends in green card adjudication after the 21.May.2026 USCIS memo, including from interviews and requests for evidence (RFEs), are discussed by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in the July 2026 podcast. The MP3 is available here and soon can be found in the archive of our......
08 July 2026Answer AC21 portability, in part, requires that the I-485 application must have been pending for at least 180 days, and the I-140 petition remained approved through that point. If the employer withdraws the I-140 before the I-485 has been pending for 180 days, then the......
08 July 2026A person living in the United States on a visa may hear terms such as “out of status,” “authorized stay,” and “unlawful presence.” Although these phrases can sound similar, they have distinct legal meanings. Understanding the difference can be important, because it may affect whether......
01 July 2026Answer The law requires the EB5 investment amount to be adjusted for inflation starting January 1, 2027 and again every five years thereafter. The exact amounts have not yet been announced, but both the standard investment amount and the reduced amount for investments in targeted......
30 June 2026In a decision with real consequences for lawful permanent residents (LPRs) who travel internationally, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on 23.Jun.2026, that a border officer does not need clear and convincing evidence that a green card holder committed a crime before treating that person as......
23 June 2026Answer A “U” on the Visa Bulletin means the category is unavailable because all available immigrant visa numbers for that fiscal year have been used. As a result, USCIS cannot approve adjustment of status applications or issue immigrant visas in that category while it remains......
23 June 2026The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has released the July 2026 Visa Bulletin. There is forward movement in select employment-based categories, while certain employment-based categories retrogress. All cutoff dates listed below refer to the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Visa Bulletin......
16 June 2026Answer To preserve and use a PERM PWD in a PERM case, at least one qualifying advertisement must be posted before the PWD expires. If the PWD expires before at least one advertisement is posted, the employer will need to obtain a new PWD and......
09 June 2026The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued an interim final rule giving officers the discretion to deny, rather than simply reject, a benefit request found to have an invalid signature after the case has been accepted for processing. Why this Matters Previously, requests with......
08 June 2026An overview of employment-based green card options in the EB1 category is offered by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in this podcast recommended for U.S. employers of foreign nationals, broadcasted 03.Jun.2026. Topics include Extraordinary Ability, Outstanding Professor / Researcher, and Multinational Executive. The MP3 is available......
03 June 2026Answer While the reported U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reversal and clarification are encouraging, it remains unclear how the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will apply the guidance in the memo. Adjustment of status (AOS) remains a discretionary benefit, and USCIS officers will......
02 June 2026If you are waiting for a green card, you have probably heard about the Visa Bulletin or waiting for a “priority date” to be “current.” For many, these technical terms keep them in the dark. The reality is more straightforward than it sounds. This article......
01 June 2026Answer It remains unclear how the USCIS will apply this guidance and whether it could affect adjustment of status (AOS) applications that are already pending. However, based on reports from recent adjustment interviews, applicants may be asked to explain why they pursued AOS in the......
27 May 2026On May 21, 2026, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued Policy Memorandum PM-602-0199, reminding its officers and the public that adjustment of status (AOS) under INA § 245 is an act of administrative grace, not an entitlement. Even applicants who satisfy every statutory......
22 May 2026Of all the immigration filings an employer makes on behalf of a foreign employee, the PERM Labor Certification is the one in which small mistakes can cause the most damage. The PERM process is known to be exacting, and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)......
20 May 2026Answer No. The U.S. Department of Labor typically does not permit typographical error corrections for a filed ETA Form 9089. In some cases, if the recruitment advertisements are still valid, the employer may be able to withdraw the application and refile a corrected ETA Form......
19 May 2026Answer As long as the qualifying job offer underlying the approved Form I-140 immigrant petition remains valid, there is typically no specific deadline by which a person must file the Form I-485 application for adjustment of status after the priority date becomes current. (19.May.2026) Sheela......
19 May 2026Answer Yes. In order to transfer the underlying basis of a pending Form I-485 application, the priority date generally must be current for your country of chargeability under the Final Action Dates chart in the U.S. Department of State Visa Bulletin for the category associated......
19 May 2026A key requirement of the employment-based, fifth preference (EB5) immigrant visa category is that the foreign national investor be able to clearly and thoroughly document the lawful source of the investment funds. The sourcing of the investment funds can be quite tedious and oftentimes is......
18 May 2026The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has released the June 2026 Visa Bulletin. There is some forward movement in select employment-based categories, while certain employment-based categories for India retrogress. All cutoff dates listed below refer to the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise......
13 May 2026Answer No. The primary (or principal) applicant must enter before or at the same time as derivative family members with visas. (12.May.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more......
12 May 2026Answer There is no requirement that an employee be in H1B status for an employer to pursue the PERM labor certification process on the employee’s behalf. An employer may generally begin the PERM process regardless of whether the employee was selected in the H1B lottery......
12 May 2026Answer Generally, a conditional green card holder may travel internationally using the expired green card together with the valid extension notice from the petition to remove conditions. However, some countries, such as Mexico, may not permit entry to individuals traveling with an expired U.S. green......
12 May 2026The employment-based, fifth preference (EB5) immigrant investor program provides an avenue for foreign nationals to become U.S. permanent residents (“green card” holders) based on a qualifying investment in a U.S. commercial enterprise. This category, established in 1990, was once underutilized, but has become a popular......
11 May 2026Common issues that non-citizens face when reentering the U.S. after travel abroad are discussed by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in this podcast, broadcasted on 06.May.2026. The MP3 is available here and soon can be found in the archive of our podcasts and teleconferences on iTunes.......
11 May 2026Answer No, there is no requirement that the priority date still be current in order for a person to use AC21 to port to a same or similar position. (06.May.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on......
06 May 2026You are living abroad and engaged to a U.S. citizen, and the two of you want to build your life together in the United States. The K-1 fiancé/e visa is designed for exactly this situation. It allows the foreign fiancé/e to enter the U.S. for......
06 May 2026The Trump administration has announced a significant shift in federal drug policy, reclassifying state‑licensed medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under the federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This action, taken by the U.S. Department of Justice and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) pursuant......
04 May 2026The EB5 program offers a path to a green card for a foreign national who invests in a U.S. business that creates American jobs. But “investing in a U.S. business” can mean two very different things under EB5. An investor can put money either directly......
29 April 2026Answer Generally speaking, you are not required to be working in the same field at the time of applying for naturalization as when you received your green card. However, in some circumstances it may be an issue. Before seeking new post-green card employment or applying......
29 April 2026Answer No. Unlike the RC program, the direct investment EB5 program is not scheduled to sunset on 20.Sep.2027, and is therefore not subject to the grandfathering deadline. (29.Apr.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE......
29 April 2026Answer Yes. General PERM processing times can be found on the DOL’s FLAG website. If you have your case number, you can check the specific status of your case using the DOL’s Case Status Search tool. (29.Apr.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance......
29 April 2026You are a U.S. citizen, your partner lives abroad, and you want to build your life together in the United States. Whether you are already married or planning to be, there are two main immigration routes to consider: the I-130 immigrant visa petition for spouses,......
27 April 2026For many years, the EB2 India category consistently had a cutoff date more favorable than its EB3 counterpart. Since October 2020, however, there has been considerable back-and-forth, with the EB3 India cutoff date surging ahead of EB2, then EB3 stalling and the EB2 cutoff date......
23 April 2026Answer If your priority date was current at the time you properly filed your Form I-485, USCIS generally will continue processing your application even if the Visa Bulletin later retrogresses, and your filing remains valid. However, because the USCIS cannot approve your adjustment-of-status application unless......
22 April 2026Answer No, retrogression does not pause the processing of a concurrently filed EAD or AP application. Additionally, it does not affect the validity of an existing EAD or AP, nor does it prevent a person from applying for extensions. (21.Apr.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior......
22 April 2026Answer In this scenario, it would be advisable to proactively send in the Supplement J form, as USCIS will not necessarily issue an RFE. (14.Apr.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click......
16 April 2026Answer Unfortunately, the U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai is the only consular post in India that processes and issues immigrant visas. (14.Apr.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more......
16 April 2026The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has released the May 2026 Visa Bulletin. There is little to no forward movement for most employment-based categories. All cutoff dates listed below refer to the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Filing Charts for May......
14 April 2026Your company has a great employee from another country working on a temporary visa and wants to keep them permanently. That means helping them obtain Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status, better known as a green card. For most employers, that journey starts with the PERM......
13 April 2026Answer The wage is fixed. The employer must pay at least the prevailing wage listed in the original determination once the employee receives the green card. It does not increase for inflation over time. (08.Apr.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies......
08 April 2026Answer Generally, applying for and receiving the EAD in the mail is low risk. However, actually using the EAD can affect your current nonimmigrant status. You should speak with an immigration attorney before deciding to use it. (08.Apr.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide......
08 April 2026The Murthy Law Firm recently succeeded again in helping a client obtain a green card based on the special provisions for a surviving spouse of a principal employment-based beneficiary who passed away. We previously shared a similar success story on MurthyDotCom, Murthy Success: Securing a......
06 April 2026Answer A birth certificate issued by an Indian Embassy typically does not meet the birth document criteria for adjustment-of-status purposes. However, it can be considered secondary evidence to supplement deficient primary birth documents. (31.Mar.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the......
31 March 2026It can take years for a foreign national to be granted status as a lawful permanent resident (i.e., “green card” holder) through one of the employment-based categories. This is especially true for applicants born in one of the heavily “oversubscribed” countries, notably India and China.......
30 March 2026Tomorrow, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) will publish a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal Register that proposes to dramatically increase the prevailing wage levels used in the H1B, H1B1, E-3, and PERM labor certification programs. The NPRM is titled “Improving Wage......
26 March 2026Answer A pending I-485 application alone does not grant an immigration status but instead places the applicant in a period of authorized stay, which means the applicant can be present in the United States without accruing unlawful presence. (25.Mar.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys......
24 March 2026Answer As of 08.Aug.2025, the USCIS rescinded the policy that allows a child’s age calculation under the CSPA to be based on Chart B. Since then, only the final-action chart (Chart A) is used to calculate a child’s age under the CSPA. (25.Mar.2026) Sheela Murthy......
24 March 2026Answer If the new worksite is in the same metropolitan statistical area (MSA) as the worksite location listed in the advertisements, the advertisements typically still can be used. If the new worksite is in a different MSA, then the PERM process likely would need to......
24 March 2026Yesterday, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the April 2026 Visa Bulletin. There is some substantial forward movement, especially for unlisted countries of chargeability. All cutoff dates listed below refer to the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Visa Bulletin Summary......
18 March 2026The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) has issued a significant precedent decision, Matter of Texperts, Inc., 29 I&N Dec. 491 (AAO 2026), that will have lasting consequences for employers and foreign nationals facing fraud or misrepresentation allegations across a wide......
16 March 2026On January 1, 2026, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued Policy Memorandum PM-602-0194, directing all agency personnel to place an adjudicative hold on pending benefit applications filed by or for nationals of countries listed in Presidential Proclamation (PP) 10998, Restricting and Limiting......
12 March 2026Each month, in anticipation of the release of the U.S. Department of State (DOS) Visa Bulletin, many individuals with pending applications for adjustment of status consider whether to transfer the underlying basis of a pending adjustment of status application, commonly known as “interfiling,” as explained......
09 March 2026The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released an updated edition of Form I-129, dated 02/27/26, which will be the only accepted version beginning 01.Apr.2026. The new edition includes significant changes to the H Classification Supplement that employers and practitioners should understand, particularly as......
05 March 2026Answer This is legally possible. However, if the child is under 18, advance planning is required to ensure that any investment agreements or related contracts signed by the child are legally valid and enforceable in the jurisdiction where they are signed. (03.Mar.2026) Sheela Murthy and......
03 March 2026It has recently come to the Murthy Law Firm’s attention that significant changes may be appearing in the language of federal plea agreements that could have serious immigration consequences for noncitizen defendants. Based on reports, new provisions are being included in plea deals that result......
26 February 2026Answer Yes, filing a family-based green card case typically would not impact an existing employment-based case. (24.Feb.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. Copyright......
24 February 2026Answer Yes, this generally is possible. As the gift giver, you would need to provide various financial documents, including seven years of tax returns along with evidence of the lawful source of the funds. (24.Feb.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies......
24 February 2026The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has released the March 2026 Visa Bulletin. All cutoff dates listed below refer to the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Visa Bulletin Summary Employment-Based, First Preference (EB1) Category In the EB1 category, the cutoff dates......
20 February 2026Per the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), the U.S. Department of State (DOS) has confirmed that China is not included in the 75-country immigrant visa processing pause that took effect 21.Jan.2026. The clarification came after an erroneous alert appeared on the Travel Docs website causing......
12 February 2026Answer While an absence of between 6-12 months is not necessarily a breach in residency for naturalization purposes, USCIS is increasingly scrutinizing absences of this length. (11.Feb.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online......
11 February 2026For foreign nationals awaiting a green card, the lengthy processing times for form I-485 applications for adjustment of status can create uncertainty about career opportunities. Many applicants wonder whether they can accept a new job offer, pursue a promotion, or make other employment changes while......
05 February 2026Answer Unfortunately, to qualify for the EB1(c) category, one must have worked as a manager or executive for a company related to the U.S. petitioner. (03.Feb.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services,......
04 February 2026Answer The USCIS policy manual states, “any document containing a foreign language submitted in support of a benefit request must be accompanied by a full English language translation.[32] The translator must certify that the translation is complete and accurate, and that the translator is competent......
04 February 2026On January 28, 2026, the U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska granted summary judgment against USCIS in an Administrative Procedure Act challenge to the agency’s denial of an EB-1A (extraordinary ability) petition. In Mukherji v. Miller, the court vacated USCIS’s denial of the......
29 January 2026Answer No, there generally is no requirement that the beneficiary be in the U.S. at the time the I-140 is filed. (27.Jan.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more......
27 January 2026Answer Religious marriages in India are often considered legally valid under U.S. law. Therefore, you should register the marriage in India. Failure to do so may leave you without key evidence of the marriage for future immigration benefits. (21.Jan.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys......
21 January 2026The Murthy Law Firm recently succeeded in helping a client obtain a green card through a marriage-based process, despite a complicated immigration history that initially appeared to present insurmountable obstacles. This client graciously granted permission for the Murthy Law Firm to share his story to......
19 January 2026In a significant development for international travel, a U.S. Department of State (DOS) memorandum has revealed a plan to indefinitely freeze visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, effective 21.Jan.2026. This move represents a major expansion of the current administration’s immigration and border policies. According......
14 January 2026Answer Per regulation, “Any document containing foreign language submitted to USCIS shall be accompanied by a full English language translation which the translator has certified as complete and accurate, and by the translator’s certification that he or she is competent to translate from the foreign......
14 January 2026The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has released the February 2026 Visa Bulletin. There is little-to-no movement in the upcoming visa bulletin. All cutoff dates listed refer to the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Visa Bulletin Summary Employment-Based, First Preference (EB1)......
13 January 2026On Monday, 12.Jan.2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is scheduled to publish a final rule in the Federal Register that will increase the premium processing fees. This fee increase will go into effect on 01.Mar.2026. Per the final rule, premium processing fees that are......
09 January 2026A person who is a conditional permanent resident (CPR) as the result of a marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident is required to file a petition to remove conditions on residence (form I-751) within ninety days of the expiration of the conditional......
08 January 2026Answer The USCIS is now requiring in-person interviews for the vast majority of I-485 applicants. So, the fact that you have been scheduled for an interview, is not unusual and does not necessarily mean there’s cause for concern. As for your co-workers, this interview requirement......
06 January 2026Answer Typically, having multiple master’s degree would not have any significant impact on the odds of approval of a case. (06.Jan.2026) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs......
06 January 2026Answer In order to file an application to adjust status (form I-485), you must be in the U.S. at the time of filing. And, depending on the circumstances, it may be necessary to remain in the U.S. until and unless one obtains an advance parole......
30 December 2025Answer Ordinarily, if a foreign national files an EB1(a) petition on their own behalf, the USCIS will not contact one’s existing employer in relation to the petition. (30.Dec.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE......
30 December 2025The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced updated policy guidance on 12.Dec.2025, regarding significant changes to its photograph reuse policy for immigration benefit applications. For the benefit of MurthyDotCom readers, a summary of the new policy is provided. Background on Photograph Collection Before issuing......
29 December 2025Answer Filing an EB5 case normally would have no impact on one’s existing I-140 approval. That case can potentially still be used as a backup, in the unlikely event of running into problems with the EB5 filing. (22.Dec.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide......
22 December 2025The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued a policy memorandum, implementing indefinite policy changes to the processing of asylum applications and benefit requests from certain countries. The policy directs USCIS personnel to place holds on certain pending applications and conduct comprehensive reviews of......
22 December 2025Today, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the January 2026 Visa Bulletin. There is some forward movement, especially in the EB1 category. All cutoff dates listed below refer to the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Visa Bulletin Summary Employment-Based, First......
17 December 2025Answer USCIS allows only specific applications / petitions to be filed online. Some can even be filed by uploading a .pdf of the form. For more information, visit this USCIS website. (16.Dec.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For......
17 December 2025Answer Among other requirements, an N-470 application requires that the applicant was present in the U.S. for an uninterrupted year as a lawful permanent resident. (16.Dec.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services,......
17 December 2025The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released the details governing the new Gold Card program, an immigration initiative established by Executive Order 14351. The program will allow foreign nationals to pay a fee in order to apply for lawful permanent residency (i.e., a......
11 December 2025Answer Yes, as long as the familial relationship was formed before your I-485 application is approved, your spouse normally can file as your derivative. (10.Dec.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click......
10 December 2025The Murthy Law Firm has received multiple reports indicating an apparent uptick in prudential visa revocations issued by the U.S. Department of State (DOS) under INA §221(i). These notices have been sent to nonimmigrants across several categories, including individuals who previously completed required medical and......
09 December 2025The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) O*NET system announced an update to its job zone classification structure, consolidating the previous five-level system into a four-level framework, to be implemented in February 2026. This change is a result of shifts in the labor market and rising......
09 December 2025The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced new policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on how country-specific facts and circumstances may impact the adjudication of discretionary benefit requests. Presidential Proclamation 10949 The new guidance follows the framework of the 04.Jun.2025 Presidential Proclamation......
04 December 2025Answer The Administration created a draft form I-140G (immigrant petition for the gold card program), which presently is under review. We may get an update on the status of this proposed program in the coming weeks or months. (02.Dec.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys......
03 December 2025If you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (commonly referred to as a “green card holder”), and wish to sponsor a relative for a family-based green card, you normally file the petition for alien relative (form I-130) with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration......
01 December 2025The USCIS recently expanded online filing options to allow certain immigration forms to be submitted as completed PDFs, rather than requiring applicants to manually enter information into an online form. This change offers greater flexibility for some applicants, but it also comes with important caveats......
26 November 2025The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently sent notices to many individuals about a new fee requirement affecting certain individuals who seek parole into the United States. It appears that most of notices were sent to those with a valid parole document, but some......
24 November 2025A federal district court has ruled that the substantial fee increases for EB5 immigrant investor applications implemented in April 2024 were unlawful. The court found that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) raised fees without completing a mandatory fee study required by the EB5 Reform......
20 November 2025Answer Normally, a person may remain in the U.S. based on a pending I-485 application. If the H1B worker is laid off, it likely will be necessary to stop working until the EAD is issued (or an H1B change of employer petition is filed). (19.Nov.2025)......
19 November 2025Answer The EB1(a) category is reserved for foreign nationals who can demonstrate extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. A PhD is not required to qualify, nor is a PhD sufficient. While having a PhD is a notable accomplishment, it does not......
19 November 2025The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed eliminating the current regulations used to decide if an immigrant is likely to become a “public charge.” A foreign national who is considered likely to become a public charge is inadmissible, and therefore will not be......
18 November 2025The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has released the December 2025 Visa Bulletin. There is a bit of forward movement since the previous month’s bulletin. All cutoff dates listed below refer to the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Visa Bulletin Summary......
14 November 2025On November 5, 2025, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC) announced filing accommodations for employers affected by the suspension of OFLC operations during the government shutdown of 2025. The OFLC ceased operations on 01.Oct.2025, and OFLC staff who officially were......
13 November 2025Answer If you solely wish to verify whether a PERM has been filed, it may be possible to obtain this information by filing a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with the U.S. Department of Labor. (11.Nov.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance......
12 November 2025Answer It is possible to make an EB5 investment in a consulting firm, but it can present a number of challenges. One potential issue, in particular, is if you wish to have the business located in a high unemployment or rural targeted employment area (TEA).......
12 November 2025The Trump Administration has directed the U.S. Department of State to issue new guidance directing consular officers to consider a significantly expanded range of health conditions when evaluating visa applications, including common chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and mental health conditions. Although......
07 November 2025The Validation Instrument for Business Enterprises (VIBE) program is a tool used by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to validate basic information about a company or organization wishing to employ a foreign national in the United......
06 November 2025Answer There is no need to add one’s wife to the I-140 in this situation. When the priority date is current, both spouses generally are eligible to file their I-485 applications, regardless of whether the spouse is listed in the I-140. (04.Nov.2025) Sheela Murthy and......
05 November 2025Answer Once the primary L-1 visa holder becomes a permanent resident, they are no longer in L-1 status, and their family members are no longer eligible for L-2 status. The family would need to enter the U.S. prior to the principal L-1 visa holder becoming......
29 October 2025Answer Generally, all documents submitted to the USCIS must be in English or accompanied by an English translation. Translated documents must be certified by the translator as complete and accurate, and the translator must certify competency to translate from the foreign language into English. (28.Oct.2025)......
29 October 2025An applicant for adjustment of status (form I-485) or naturalization (form N-400) may face denial on two broad legal grounds: mandatory and discretionary. Understanding when a denial is compelled by statute, as opposed to when it reflects a negative exercise of discretion, is essential for......
27 October 2025Answer Ordinarily, yes, the priority date from any I-140 petition filed for an EB1, EB2, or EB3 case can be applied for any other EB1, EB2, or EB3 case filed for the same beneficiary. (23.Oct.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies......
23 October 2025The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will publish a proposed rule on October 23, 2025, that would significantly reduce fees for most EB5 immigrant investor program applications and petitions. The proposed fee schedule represents decreases ranging from 14 percent to 61 percent for existing EB5......
22 October 2025The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has released the November 2025 Visa Bulletin. There are no changes from the previous month in the employment-based categories. Also, I-485 adjustment-of-status applicants must use the more favorable dates for filing chart (i.e., Chart B). Visa Bulletin Summary Employment-Based,......
15 October 2025Answer The TN technically is not one of the dual-intent categories. Therefore, Canadians and Mexicans who wish to enter the U.S. in TN status are required to demonstrate nonimmigrant intent. However, the USCIS has said previously that an I-140 petition is not automatically indicative of......
15 October 2025Answer If you are maintaining valid L-1 status and have an unexpired L-1 visa stamp in your passport, you generally may travel internationally while your I-485 application is pending. The only issue with such travel typically would be that, if you also applied for advance......
15 October 2025Answer The EB5 program remains in effect and has not been changed by the Trump administration. (15.Oct.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. Copyright......
15 October 2025There are reports of heightened scrutiny by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at U.S. ports of entry (POEs), even for individuals entering the U.S. under employment-based visas such as the H1B. This heightened scrutiny can lead to lines of intense questioning and searches......
13 October 2025Answer An immigrant petition filed by a nonprofit normally would take the same amount of time as one filed by a for-profit company. The process is generally the same for either type of entity. (07.Oct.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies......
08 October 2025Answer In the family-based preference categories, the spouse and/or minor children of the primary beneficiary may also benefit from the single-petition filing. Normally, one does not need to file a separate petition for these family members. (30.Sep.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance......
01 October 2025Answer Yes, all EB1 classifications are subject to the same cutoff dates in the visa bulletin. (30.Sep.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. Copyright......
01 October 2025Congress must pass a spending bill to extend government operations before October 1, 2025, or else a temporary shutdown of the federal government will go into effect. This would be the first shutdown since Trump was reelected. Security, CBP, and Vital Functions Continue The U.S.......
25 September 2025Answer Unless Congress passes a law to eliminate or replace the EB5 program, we do not believe the EB5 program is at risk. (23.Sep.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here.......
24 September 2025Donald Trump signed an executive order on September 19, 2025, ostensibly creating a new “Gold Card” program that would provide foreign nationals with a green card based on making a substantial financial contribution to the United States. The program requires donations of $1 million for......
22 September 2025The U.S. Department of State announced on September 16, 2025, that all available immigrant visas in the employment-based, fifth preference (EB5) unreserved category have been issued for fiscal year (FY) 2025. Accordingly, consular posts temporarily cannot issue immigrant visas in this category and the U.S.......
18 September 2025Answer Since your green card was granted based on your future work in the arts, the USCIS generally expects you to work in that field for a reasonable time after getting your green card. (17.Sep.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies......
18 September 2025The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has released the October 2025 Visa Bulletin, which is the first visa bulletin of fiscal year (FY) 2026. All cutoff dates listed below refer to the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Visa Bulletin Summary Employment-Based,......
15 September 2025Answer Ordinarily, a denial issued on an EB1 petition would have no negative consequences for your existing EB2 petition. (10.Sep.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here.......
10 September 2025Answer If you interfile a prior employer’s I-140 to upgrade or downgrade, you are telling the USCIS that you plan to work for the prior employer once your green card is issued. That employer must still have a bona fide job available for you, and......
10 September 2025In a significant policy shift, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced its plan to eliminate the ability to pay filing fees using personal checks, money orders, or other forms of paper payments, with few exceptions. For decades, these paper-based payments have been a......
04 September 2025Answer Priority date retention happens at the I-140 stage. Requesting retention of a priority date does not void or otherwise invalidate the original I-140’s PERM application. If Company A chooses not to withdraw the I-140, it continues to remain valid for immigration purposes, even if......
03 September 2025Answer As a general matter, children age out at 21 years of age and are no longer eligible as derivative beneficiaries. That is, they are no longer eligible to immigrate with the family as a dependent. However, under the Child Status Protection Act, children are......
03 September 2025The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published policy guidance on 19.Aug.2025, updating the factors officers may consider when exercising discretion in certain immigration benefit requests. The update emphasizes negative discretionary weight for applicants with connections to “anti-American” or terrorist organizations. Understanding Discretionary Analysis Many......
28 August 2025Answer No. An approved PERM labor certification is employer-specific and normally cannot be transferred. The new employer would need to file their own PERM application. (27.Aug.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services,......
27 August 2025Answer A startup normally can file green card cases as soon as the company has sufficient income or, in some cases, investments, to establish its ability to pay the offered wage. It is about the company being in a position to offer the job and......
27 August 2025The Murthy Law Firm recently succeeded in helping a client obtain a green card based on the special provisions for a surviving spouse of a principal employment-based beneficiary who passed away. This client graciously granted permission for the Murthy Law Firm to share her story......
25 August 2025Answer Neither the PERM labor certification process nor I-140 petition imposes any travel limitations on the sponsored employee. Travel considerations typically become a concern when the employee is pursuing the actual green card application process. (20.Aug.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that......
20 August 2025Answer Yes, time spent as a conditional permanent resident counts toward fulfillment of the requirements to apply for U.S. citizenship. (20.Aug.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs......
20 August 2025The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Policy Manual was recently updated, providing guidance related to family-based petitions. This update explains and clarifies eligibility criteria, filing procedures, interview scheduling, and other issues. Most notable is the USCIS decision to issue notices to appear (NTAs) –......
18 August 2025Today, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the September 2025 Visa Bulletin. There is no movement in the latest visa bulletin from the previous month. All cutoff dates listed below refer to the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Visa Bulletin......
13 August 2025Answer Generally speaking, a person with a pending I-485, who is not maintaining their underlying nonimmigrant status, is considered to be in a period of authorized stay. Unfortunately, we have received reports that the Trump Administration is putting some people in this situation in removal......
12 August 2025On 08.Aug.2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued updated guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual, rescinding the policy that allows a child’s age calculation under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) sometimes to be based on the more favorable dates-for-filing chart (Chart B),......
11 August 2025Answer No, a denial of the H1B petition typically does not affect the PERM process. Similarly, if the PERM case is denied, the H1B petition normally would not be impacted. (06.Aug.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information......
06 August 2025Answer Yes, this normally would be allowed. Filing a family-based case generally would have no impact on a pending employment-based case. Both cases could continue, but each would have a separate priority date. (i.e., The priority date from an employment-based case cannot be used for......
06 August 2025A federal district court ruled on 29.Jul.2025, that the current EB5 investment sustainment requirement will remain in place while the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) works on formal rulemaking to implement changes from the EB5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 (RIA). The decision......
04 August 2025Answer Unfortunately, the H-4 applicant typically must be physically in the United States at the time the H-4 EAD is filed. (29.Jul.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more......
29 July 2025Answer 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.......
23 July 2025Answer Certain derivative beneficiaries of employment-based immigrant petitions or adjustment applications may continue their case even after the principal applicant’s death. Among the requirements to qualify, you must have been residing in the United States at the time of your husband’s passing and must continue......
16 July 2025Answer Generally speaking, an approved I-140, including one that is self-sponsored, can be used by an H-4 spouse to apply for an H-4 EAD. (16.Jul.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click......
16 July 2025Today, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the August 2025 Visa Bulletin. All cutoff dates listed below refer to the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Visa Bulletin Summary Employment-Based, First Preference (EB1) Category There is no change in the EB1......
14 July 2025President 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......
10 July 2025Answer If your spouse was born in Sri Lanka, you can apply based on cross-chargeability using her country of birth instead of India. In other words, your pending green card case can be counted under your spouse’s country of birth rather than your own. (09.Jul.2025)......
09 July 2025Answer Unfortunately, this is a difficult scenario. The spouse with the green card must file an I-130 petition in the FB2A category, but this category is retrogressed by several years. The foreign national spouse potentially can come on a nonimmigrant visa of their own, such......
02 July 2025Answer Yes, if the PERM was filed in time to qualify for the H1B extension under the 365-day rule, it is possible to obtain the extension based on the pending MTR or appeal. The MTR or appeal is enough to keep the case “alive” so......
02 July 2025Following 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......
30 June 2025If 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......
26 June 2025Answer The U.S. Department of Labor requires that the employer pay for the PERM labor certification and related expenses. The USCIS does not have the same view, so the expenses of the I-140 and I-485 (legal fees, filing fees, costs) can be paid for by......
25 June 2025Answer In order to qualify as a multinational manager / executive under the EB1(c) category, the foreign national generally must work for the foreign entity while physically outside the United States for at least one year. (25.Jun.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance......
25 June 2025Answer In marriage-based green card cases, the petitioner and beneficiary typically are interviewed together. However, if marriage fraud is suspected, the officer has the discretion to interview each spouse separately. (17.Jun.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information......
17 June 2025Answer Requesting retention of a priority date does not void or otherwise invalidate the original I-140 application. If Company A chooses not to withdraw the I-140, it continues to remain valid for immigration purposes, even if that priority date is retained and applied to another......
17 June 2025The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a change in the validity period of the report of medical examination and vaccination record (form I-693). Per the updated policy, an I-693 signed by a Civil Surgeon after 01.Nov.2023 will remain valid only for the......
16 June 2025Answer There is no procedural reason that filing for advance parole should delay your underlying green card application, and we have not seen this occur in practice. (11.Jun.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE......
11 June 2025This morning, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the July 2025 Visa Bulletin. As with recent months, movement remains limited in the employment-based categories. All cutoff dates listed below refer to the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Visa Bulletin Summary......
10 June 2025The PERM labor certification is the first in a three-step process in the majority of employment-based, permanent resident (commonly referred to as “green card”) cases. The PERM process is long and complex, and it can be overwhelming for a company pursuing the process for any......
09 June 2025Answer If an employer disagrees with the prevailing wage determination, they can first request a redetermination. If that is unsuccessful, they may request a director’s review. If that too is unsuccessful, the employer may appeal to the Board of Alien Labor Certification Appeals (BALCA). However,......
05 June 2025Answer Yes, an H1B worker can continue working in H1B status throughout this family-based green card process. There is no conflict between the H1B and the I-130 because ‘immigrant intent’ is not an issue for H1B workers. (04.Jun.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide......
05 June 2025Answer Normally, unless the individual qualifies for AC21 (i.e., I-485 has been pending for at least 180 days and the new position is the same or similar), a new PERM case would be required in order to be sponsored under the new position. (28.May.2025) Sheela......
28 May 2025Certain classes of U.S. citizens who were not born in the United States are eligible to file an application for certificate of citizenship (form N-600). While this certificate does not directly grant an immigration benefit, it does provide a certificate that evidences the date the......
22 May 2025Answer Including special skills often will increase the wage level, unless the U.S. Department of Labor determines that the skills are typical for an entry-level position in the occupation. (21.May.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on......
21 May 2025Answer Unfortunately, a pending or approved I-130 petition cannot be used to extend one’s H1B status beyond the standard 6-year limit. (21.May.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more......
21 May 2025Common issues faced by non-citizens when reentering the U.S. after travel abroad are discussed by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in this May 2025 podcast recommended specifically for employers. The MP3 is available here and can be found in the archive of our teleconferences and......
15 May 2025Answer While it is possible for a lawful permanent resident to sponsor a spouse for a green card, there currently are backlogs in this category. Filing the I-130 petition does not provide any immediate ability to remain in the U.S., and it is not possible......
14 May 2025This morning, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the June 2025 Visa Bulletin. As with recent months, movement remains limited in the employment-based categories. All cutoff dates listed below refer to the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Visa Bulletin Summary......
13 May 2025The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has reportedly frozen the Enumeration Beyond Entry (EBE) program under which noncitizens could request a social security number on various U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) forms, including Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization; Form I-485, Application to......
08 May 2025Under the PERM labor certification process, supporting documentation is not submitted to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) with the PERM application. Instead, the employer must retain the required documents and produce them for the DOL in the event of an audit. The requirements for......
08 May 2025Answer It is possible to be sponsored for an EB2 or EB3 position while still on OPT. But, even if the I-140 is approved, this would not exempt you from having to go through the H1B lottery. (07.May.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide......
07 May 2025Murthy Law Firm attorneys guide nonimmigrants and others on preparation for entering the U.S. at a port of entry (POE) in 2025. The MP3 is available here and can be found in the archive of our teleconferences and podcasts on iTunes. ......
01 May 2025Answer When you interfile a downgrade or upgrade request, you are informing the USCIS that you intend to work for the employer listed on the interfiled I-140 petition when your I-485 is approved. If you do not intend to work for this employer, then you......
23 April 2025Answer Technically speaking, the law requires a green card holder to carry with them the original I-551 (i.e., green card). (22.Apr.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs......
23 April 2025Answer Any foreign national who turns 14 while in the U.S. must register within 30 days of their 14th birthday, even if they were previously registered. This requirement applies even for nonimmigrant dependents in lawful status and children who are green card holders. Further details......
17 April 2025U.S. immigration law includes provisions intended to help authorities keep track of foreign nationals in the United States. By law, all non-U.S. citizens aged 18 or older are required to carry at all times, a “certificate of alien registration or alien registration receipt card” (e.g.,......
17 April 2025This morning, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the May 2025 Visa Bulletin. There is little-to-no movement in the employment-based categories. All cutoff dates listed refer to those in the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Visa Bulletin Summary Employment-Based, First......
11 April 2025In light of recent immigration policies and heightened scrutiny at U.S. ports of entry, many noncitizens are feeling anxious about returning to the U.S. It is important to approach reentry with preparation and caution. While every situation is unique, there are several best practices that......
10 April 2025Answer Normally, after interfiling an approved I-140 petition, you must wait another 180 days before requesting AC21 portability to a new job offer. If you interfiled a pending I-140, then you typically must wait 180 days from the date the pending I-140 is approved. (09.Apr.2025)......
09 April 2025Answer Nearly every green card category, including EB2 and EB3, has its own annual allotment of visa numbers. Then, if there are immigrant visa numbers remaining and unused in one employment-based (EB) category, they can be used for the next level of EB numbers. Even......
09 April 2025When completing the ETA form 9089, application for permanent employment certification (PERM labor certification), employers may overlook a small but important question on the form: “Is there a familial relationship between the foreign worker and the owners, stockholders, partners, corporate officers, and/or incorporators?” Before breezing......
03 April 2025Answer Typically, the USCIS does not reroute a case sent to the wrong address. Rather, the USCIS usually rejects such cases and returns them to the applicants. (02.Apr.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE......
02 April 2025Answer Yes, it normally is permissible for the foreign national to pay all the fees related to an EB1(c) petition. (02.Apr.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs......
02 April 2025In these uneasy times for immigrants in the U.S., stress and worry become a part of life. For those who have ventured to the U.S. and become lawful permanent residents (i.e., green card holders or LPRs), the stress and worry does not necessarily end. As......
25 March 2025The purpose of the labor certification process is to protect U.S. workers. It is a certification from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) that there are not able, willing, and qualified U.S. workers available for the offered employment or position. The labor certification is the......
20 March 2025Answer Yes. While a reentry permit allows you to return to the U.S. after a year or more abroad, and an N-470 preserves your residence for naturalization purposes, the USCIS can still determine that you have abandoned your green card if your overall circumstances do......
19 March 2025Details of the alien registration requirement, which had been announced by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on 25.Feb.2025, have now been released. Effective 11.Apr.2025, foreign nationals who are subject to the new registration mandate must comply with the registration requirement via an online......
17 March 2025Answer Generally speaking, a U.S. citizen residing abroad who is at least 21 years old may sponsor their parents for a green card. However, they typically would need to establish residence in the United States for the immigrant visa to actually be issued (or demonstrate......
12 March 2025Answer No, it generally is not possible to extend one’s H1B status based on a spouse’s approved I-140. (12.Mar.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. ......
12 March 2025Answer No, this is not true. An immigrant petition filed by a nonprofit normally would take the same amount of time as one filed by a for-profit company. The process generally is the same for either type of entity. (12.Mar.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior......
12 March 2025This evening, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the April 2025 Visa Bulletin. There is some forward movement in most of the oversubscribed categories, and retrogression in the EB5 unreserved category. All cutoff dates listed refer to those in the final action chart (i.e.,......
10 March 2025Answer If the U.S. affiliate has a separate FEIN from the company sponsoring you, then experience gained with that affiliate is not subject to the “on the job” experience restrictions. The same typically is true for a foreign affiliate that is a separate business entity.......
05 March 2025DOS and USCIS have issued all available immigrant visas for the EB4 Special Immigrant visa category, which includes religious workers, broadcasters, certain physicians, employees of international organizations, and armed forces members. The annual limits will reset with the start of the 2026 fiscal year on......
03 March 2025Answer Yes, profits earned from investing in cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, is generally permissible to use for an EB5 investment. So long as we can demonstrate the funds used to purchase the cryptocurrency was lawfully earned, and that all laws (including tax laws) have been......
26 February 2025Answer There is no public charge requirement when applying for U.S. citizenship. In general, your employment status and amount you have in savings do not really matter when applying to naturalize, except for purposes of requesting a fee waiver. (25.Feb.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior......
26 February 2025Today, the Trump Administration announced that they plan to eliminate the EB5 immigrant investor program, and replace it with a “gold card” program, which grants lawful permanent residency based on an investment of $5 million. No further details have yet been provided. It is worth......
25 February 2025Answer The company is only required to pay the sponsored employee the PERM prevailing wage once they receive their green card. However, the company must demonstrate the ability to pay the prevailing wage from the time the PERM application is filed until the employee receives......
19 February 2025Answer If you wish to start working based on your EAD rather than continuing in H1B status, you typically should notify your employer so that your I-9 records can be updated, but there is no need to notify the USCIS. (18.Feb.2025) Sheela Murthy and other......
19 February 2025Answer AC21 portability is no longer an option after your green card has been approved. You typically are required to report to your sponsoring employer for work in this situation. (12.Feb.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information......
12 February 2025This evening, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the March 2025 Visa Bulletin. Similar to the February 2025 Visa Bulletin, there is some progress in some of the oversubscribed categories, while others (e.g., EB1) remain stubbornly stuck in place. All cutoff dates listed refer......
11 February 2025Answer According to the applicable regulation, experience letters must include a specific description of the duties performed. (05.Feb.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. ......
05 February 2025Answer In your situation, there is actually no way to know for certain whether your daughter will age out at this stage. You likely would not know for a number of years. There are a couple of things you may be able to do to......
05 February 2025Answer No, the wait-times are essentially identical, as they both fall under the EB1 category. (28.Jan.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. Copyright ©......
29 January 2025Answer Unfortunately, there is no premium processing available for the PERM filed with the U.S. Department of Labor. (22.Jan.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. ......
22 January 2025Answer The USCIS normally lists field office and Application Support Center closures on its USCIS Office Closing webpage. (15.Jan.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. ......
15 January 2025Today, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the February 2025 Visa Bulletin. In February, there is slight bit of movement in some, but not all, of the oversubscribed categories. All cutoff dates listed refer to those in the final action chart (i.e., Chart A),......
13 January 2025Answer During Trump’s first term in office, it seems his Administration was content with allowing the adjudication of EB5 cases to proceed undisturbed, for the most part. Although processing times did increase for nearly all case types, including EB5, we did not see a nationwide......
02 January 2025Answer The prudential revocations of a visa due to a DUI only impacts the visa “stamp,” not a person’s status. That being said, please see our MurthyDotCom InfoArticle, Alcohol-Related Arrests Create Immigration Problems (29.Dec.2023), which summarizes some of the key problems that can be created......
02 January 2025Answer Yes, it generally does not matter whether you are in the U.S. or abroad when you file the I-140 petition. (01.Jan.2025) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more......
02 January 2025At the Murthy Law Firm, we are regularly asked whether using premium processing increases the risk that a case may be issued a request for evidence (RFE). We have not necessarily seen a significant increase in the issuance of RFEs for cases filed in premium......
30 December 2024Answer Unfortunately, no, you normally cannot use the priority date on a family-based case for an employment-based case. (24.Dec.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. ......
24 December 2024On 10.Dec.2024, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced new instructions and a new edition of the application to register permanent residence or adjust status (form I-485), which applicants must start using, effective 10.Feb.2025. Similarly, the other forms related to form I-485, such as......
23 December 2024On Tuesday, 10.Dec.2024, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a final rule to permanently implement the rule that automatically extends the validity of certain employment authorization documents (EADs) based on a pending, timely filed application to extend employment authorization. The final rule will......
19 December 2024Answer Even if it is possible for the couple to adopt you – and this would be based on state law – this would normally not help, from an immigration law perspective. To sponsor an adopted child under U.S. immigration law, the foreign national typically......
18 December 2024Answer Yes. Generally, any employer may file an H1B for you requesting status in 1-year increments as long as the PERM filed by the other company remains pending. (17.Dec.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our......
18 December 2024The PERM labor certification is the first in a three-step process in the majority of employment-based green card cases. A key component of the PERM process is the labor market test, where an employer runs a series of advertisements to recruit for the sponsored position......
16 December 2024Answer You are correct that, because she is under 21 and unmarried, you can sponsor her as an immediate relative. This means she is not subject to the visa bulletin, and she will remain classified as an immediate relative while the case is pending, as......
11 December 2024Answer Generally speaking, there is no need to complete the J-1 waiver requirement before the U.S. citizen spouse files the I-130 petition. (11.Dec.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access......
11 December 2024The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has released the January 2025 Visa Bulletin. In January, there is modest movement in some of the oversubscribed categories from the previous month. The DOS also provides some vague predictions regarding the EB5 program. All cutoff dates listed refer......
10 December 2024Generally, a foreign national is limited to a maximum duration of stay of six years in H1B status, but the law provides several exemptions to this limit. Most common exemptions include extensions in three and one-year increments. This article focuses on extensions in one-year increments......
05 December 2024Answer No, there is no family-based category that allows a green card holder to sponsor a parent for a green card. Generally, only a U.S. citizen can sponsor a parent for a family-based green card under the immediate relative category. (03.Dec.2024) Sheela Murthy and other......
04 December 2024Answer You do not need to add your spouse to your pending or approved I-140. When you are eventually eligible to file your I-485 adjustment-of-status application, or file for an immigrant visa at a consular post, you will be able to include your spouse at......
04 December 2024Today, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that, if a report of immigration medical examination and vaccination record (form I-693) is required for an adjustment of status application (form I-485), it must be filed at the same time as the I-485. Failure to......
02 December 2024On Tuesday, November 19, 2024, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that it had updated guidance on determining the legal and physical custody requirements of a child of one or more U.S. citizen parents for purposes of qualifying for derivative citizenship. Derivative citizenship......
02 December 2024Answer Assuming your wife’s I-485 was filed based as your dependent, normally nothing would need to be filed for your spouse in this situation. (26.Nov.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click......
27 November 2024Answer The U.S. Department of State’s visa reciprocity schedule lists civil documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, that are acceptable alternative documents based on one’s country of birth. (26.Nov.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on......
27 November 2024Answer No, there is no requirement that you be in L1A status for your employer to sponsor you for an EB1(c) position. If you meet the requirements for EB1(c), whether you are in H1B or L-1 status generally has little-to-no impact. (26.Nov.2024) Sheela Murthy and......
27 November 2024A lawful permanent resident (LPR), commonly referred to as a “green card” holder, is generally expected to renew the green card prior to the expiration date of the card, which is typically ten years from the date of issuance. This is accomplished by filing an......
27 November 2024President-elect Donald Trump soon will be sworn in as the forty-seventh President of the United States, and many foreign nationals are nervously waiting to see how and when he will implement many of the disruptive immigration policies that marked his first term in office. One......
25 November 2024President-elect Donald Trump will begin his second term in office as President of the United States, effective January 20, 2025. Since the election, the Murthy Law Firm has received numerous questions about how his new administration will impact U.S. immigration law and policy. To assist......
21 November 2024Answer Unfortunately, no, this is not generally possible. For you to use cross chargeability, you and your spouse typically must pursue your green cards using the same process. So, either you must both apply for adjustment of status, or you must both apply for consular......
20 November 2024Answer When filing a marriage-based I-130 petition, the petitioner must show that there is a bona fide marital relationship. A joint bank account or other evidence of financial comingling is often good evidence. But, if that is not available, other evidence can be used. (19.Nov.2024)......
20 November 2024A person’s education background can play a pivotal role in certain employment-based immigration processes, such as when filing a PERM labor certification case or an H1B nonimmigrant petition. If the person being sponsored has a foreign degree, it typically is necessary to demonstrate that the......
18 November 2024Over the past several days, President-elect Donald Trump has selected several people to serve in his administration, which will start on January 20, 2025. All, unsurprisingly, have expressed views that parallel those the President-elect when it comes to immigration issues. Former ICE Director to Serve......
14 November 2024Today, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the December 2024 Visa Bulletin. There is very little movement in the oversubscribed categories from the previous month. All cutoff dates listed refer to those in the final action chart (i.e., Chart A), unless otherwise specified. Visa......
12 November 2024The PERM labor certification is the first in a three-step process in the majority of employment-based green card cases. A key component of the PERM process is the labor market test, where the employer must demonstrate via a regimented recruitment process that there is no......
11 November 2024As explained in the MurthyDotCom InfoArticle, Differences Between: Lawful Status, Period of Authorized Stay, & Unlawful Presence (19.Apr.2022), leaving the U.S. after a prolonged stay beyond the expiration date of one’s I-94 can trigger an automatic three- or ten-year bar. In 2012, the Board of......
07 November 2024Answer Yes, the types of recruitment will be different, but you can use the PERM process to sponsor a foreign national for a nonprofessional position. (05.Nov.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services,......
06 November 2024Becoming a lawful permanent resident (LPR) and obtaining a green card affords an individual many benefits, including the ability to freely travel to and from the United States. However, an LPR’s ability to travel and remain outside of the U.S. is not without limit. If......
04 November 2024Answer In order to be eligible for a new six-year period of H1B time, one generally would need to be outside the U.S. for at least one year, and then go through the H1B lottery again. A person is generally allowed to use any remaining......
31 October 2024Answer No, you must have the actual AP document (or the combination EAD/AP card). (30.Oct.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. Copyright © 2024,......
30 October 2024Answer A fraud / misrepresentation finding makes one permanently inadmissible. The waiver that you applied for and received at the consulate waives inadmissibility only with regard to your admission as a nonimmigrant (e.g., H1B). In order to waive the inadmissibility for the purposes of becoming......
23 October 2024Answer Generally speaking, for an immigrant visa petition being filed for consular processing for someone residing in India, only the police certificate from the regional passport office is required. (16.Oct.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on......
16 October 2024Answer The USCIS will accept filings using the 04/01/24 edition of form I-131 that are postmarked before October 11, 2024. (16.Oct.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs......
16 October 2024Answer No, that is not correct. Whether you come to the U.S. on L1A or H1B should have no impact on your eligibility for the EB1(c) category. (16.Oct.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE......
16 October 2024Today, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the November 2024 Visa Bulletin. Unfortunately, there is no movement in any of the employment-based categories, with the exception of the EB4 program for certain religious workers, which was reauthorized by Congress through 20.Dec.2024. All cutoff dates......
11 October 2024The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) launched a new online filing process 08.Oct.2024, where an individual can file certain forms online by uploading a completed PDF application rather than completing an online form or physically mailing documents to the USCIS. Although the initial rollout......
10 October 2024Answer No, you must be physically present in the U.S. to apply for a reentry permit. (08.Oct.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. Copyright......
09 October 2024Answer You may wish to consider obtaining an alternative wage survey, as this may show a more realistic wage for your area. The DOL may be able to consider that while issuing their wage determination. (08.Oct.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that......
09 October 2024On October 2, 2024, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published a policy alert for the USCIS Policy Manual, to clarify how certain eligibility criteria will be evaluated under the employment-based, first preference (EB1) category for persons of extraordinary ability. An overview of the......
07 October 2024The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released updated guidance on September 25, 2024, in the USCIS Policy Manual on calculating a dependent child’s age under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA). As detailed in the MurthyDotCom InfoArticle, Child Status Protection Act Basics, parts one......
03 October 2024Answer Medicals signed by a Civil Surgeon after 01.Nov.2023 are considered valid indefinitely. (01.Oct.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. Copyright © 2024, MURTHY......
02 October 2024Certain employment-based immigration processes, such as the PERM labor certification and H1B nonimmigrant visa classification, require an employer to obtain a prevailing wage determination from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC). In all applicable immigration processes, the prevailing wage......
26 September 2024The Biden Administration’s new parole-in-place program is the topic of this Q/A session recorded for you by Murthy Law Firm attorneys. The MP3 is available here and can be found in the archive of our teleconferences and podcasts on iTunes. ......
25 September 2024Answer Yes, the asylum program fee is still required, even if there is no employer. If you are self-petitioning, the fee is reduced to $300, which is the same fee that small employers pay. (25.Sep.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies......
25 September 2024Answer There is no set limit for how long a person may remain outside the U.S. while an I-485 is pending, and the AP document generally remains valid as a travel document through the expiration date listed on the AP. However, the applicant must maintain......
25 September 2024Answer You should consult with a knowledgeable immigration attorney about possible immigration consequences of your criminal record. Although you may have no conviction under the state law as a result of your successful probation, you still are likely to have a conviction for the purposes......
25 September 2024The ETA form 9089, application for permanent employment certification (PERM labor certification) asks of employers: “Is the employer a closely held corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship in which the foreign worker has an ownership interest?” As a variety of business arrangements could exist between employers......
23 September 2024Until relatively recently, the employment-based, second preference (EB2) category for India historically enjoyed a more favorable cutoff date in the monthly visa bulletin than its employment-based, third preference (EB3) counterpart. This is no longer the case, however, prompting an increase in interest among Indians in......
19 September 2024Answer Unfortunately, there is presently a backlog in the family-based category for green card holders sponsoring a spouse for a green card. Until the priority date is current, no I-485 can be filed. It also is not typically possible to apply for an EAD based......
18 September 2024The PERM labor certification is the first in a three-step process in the majority of employment-based, permanent resident (commonly referred to as “green card”) cases. Because of how long this process can take, foreign nationals studying in the United States often want to begin the......
16 September 2024This morning, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the October 2024 Visa Bulletin. Unfortunately, there is less forward movement than hoped for in this first visa bulletin of fiscal year 2025 (FY25). All cutoff dates listed refer to those in the final action chart......
11 September 2024Answer In general, yes, this is permissible. There is a USCIS memo that says, as long as one I-140 petition was filed within the validity period of the labor certification, another I-140 petition can be filed. (11.Sep.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance......
11 September 2024The majority of immigration cases are adjudicated correctly by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and other relevant U.S. government agencies. But there are situations in which a government agency makes an adverse decision on a case that is contrary to the law. In......
09 September 2024Answer No. Ordinarily, one’s wife in this situation would not need an affidavit of support, because she can be credited with your 40 quarters of employment. (03.Sep.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online......
04 September 2024The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has announced that several employment-based (EB) immigrant visa categories will remain unavailable for the remainder of fiscal year 2024 (FY24). A category that is unavailable is one for which all the immigrant visa numbers have been exhausted for the......
30 August 2024Most family-based immigrant visa cases require the petitioner to serve also as a financial sponsor for the intending immigrant. To qualify as a sponsor, a petitioner must complete an affidavit of support (form I-864) demonstrating that the sponsor has sufficient means to ensure that the......
29 August 2024Answer Typically, yes, it is possible to use work experience gained abroad, assuming the experience was related to the position. (28.Aug.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs......
28 August 2024A federal judge in Texas has temporarily blocked the Biden Administration from continuing to grant parole in place under its Keeping Families Together program. As noted in the MurthyDotCom NewsBrief, USCIS Starts Accepting Applications for Keeping Families Together Program (22.Aug.2024), this program is designed to......
27 August 2024UPDATE: See NewsFlash! Federal Judge Orders Temporary Halt to Parole-in-Place Program, Posted 27.Aug.2024 As was recently indicated in MurthyDotCom’s NewsFlash! Filing Guide Released for Parole in Place Program for Undocumented Spouses of U.S. Citizens (16.Aug.2024), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) began accepting applications......
22 August 2024Answer Yes, a stepchild of a U.S. citizen does not need to apply with their noncitizen parent. However, you need to establish a child-parent relationship with your stepfather. (21.Aug.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our......
21 August 2024UPDATE: See NewsFlash! Federal Judge Orders Temporary Halt to Parole-in-Place Program, Posted 27.Aug.2024 Today, the Biden Administration released a filing guide for form I-131F, which is the new electronic form that soon will be used by certain undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to......
16 August 2024Answer If your brother’s I-130 indicated that you would apply for adjustment of status in the U.S., he should file a form I-824 to have the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) transfer it to the National Visa Center (NVC). If the I-130 indicated you......
14 August 2024Answer Yes, if the position meets the standard AC21 requirements, it is feasible to port one’s case to a position that involves self-employment. Before doing so, however, it probably would be a good idea to discuss this with an attorney. (14.Aug.2024) Sheela Murthy and other......
14 August 2024Special handling, sometimes referred to as optional special recruitment, is a PERM labor certification process solely carved out for those who teach at U.S. colleges and universities. While similar to the regular PERM process, in that it requires a test of the U.S. labor market,......
12 August 2024This afternoon, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the September 2024 Visa Bulletin. There is no forward movement in any of the employment-based categories from the previous month. Worse still, as the DOS previously predicted, the EB3 category cutoff date for certain countries has......
08 August 2024Ways for petitioners and applicants to sue the government for incorrect or long delayed decisions are discussed by Murthy Law Firm attorneys in this 07.Aug.2024 podcast in our series for Employers. Included in the discussion are Writs of Mandamus and lawsuits under the Administrative Procedures......
08 August 2024Answer You may be able to show exceptional ability in lieu of an advanced degree or qualify based on an equivalency evaluation of your foreign degree or a combination of your degree/s and experience. However, once you establish exceptional ability or an equivalent to an......
07 August 2024Answer A PERM labor certification is for a future offer of employment. So technically, your prior employer could file the I-140 on your behalf, if that employer intends to rehire you in the future for the position laid out in the PERM. (07.Aug.2024) Sheela Murthy......
07 August 2024Answer No, in this situation, you only need to list your travel history for the last 3 years. (07.Aug.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here. ......
07 August 2024The Murthy Law Firm regularly assists foreign nationals in filing self-sponsored immigrant petitions under the EB2 national interest waiver (NIW) category and in the EB1(a) for immigrants with extraordinary ability. In a recent NIW case, the immigrant petition (form I-140) was filed for an expert......
05 August 2024Answer Yes, but there are some restrictions, including the requirement that the prevailing wage be valid at the time of filing the PERM application. (31.Jul.2024) Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click......
31 July 2024Answer You are not required to file anything. If you do nothing, your green card will be issued based on your prior name. In that situation, you will need to carry proof of your name change or file an I-90 after your green card is......
31 July 2024A policy proposal from the Heritage Foundation named the 2025 Presidential Transition Project – or Project 2025, as it is widely referred to in the press – presents a comprehensive set of conservative reforms aimed at restructuring federal government policies, including U.S. immigration policy. Former......
29 July 2024On July 25, 2024, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published a final rule in the Federal Register updating the investment and revenue requirements to qualify for parole under the international entrepreneur rule. Per regulation, the investment requirements must be adjusted every three years......
25 July 2024Answer No, there is no minimum amount of time you must be in the U.S. before an employer may file an I-140 for you, or before the I-140 can be approved. In fact, there is no requirement that the individual be in the U.S. at......
24 July 2024Answer There probably is no need to file a separate application to renew your green card. After filing an application for naturalization (form N-400), the USCIS will issue a receipt notice that automatically extends the validity of one’s existing green card for 24 months. (24.Jul.2024)......
24 July 2024The United States has a shortage of registered nurses, which has increased the demand for foreign nurses. For a U.S. healthcare employer seeking to hire a foreign nurse or a foreign nurse seeking options for working in the U.S., this article provides an overview of......
22 July 2024The White House announced today that the parole-in-place program to promote family unity will officially launch on August 19, 2024. Applications filed prior to this date will be rejected. Details about the program should be published in the Foreign Affairs Manual in the very near......
17 July 2024On February 2, 2021, President Joseph Biden issued an executive order on restoring faith in the U.S. legal immigration systems and strengthening integration and inclusion efforts for new Americans. This executive order led the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to announce updated policy guidance......
15 July 2024Answer Generally speaking, the fact that you are friends with the owner of a company would not prevent that company from filing a PERM case for you. Assuming the company has a position available for you, and otherwise meets the basic requirements, yes, it typically......
10 July 2024