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Immigration Issues/Questions Answered by Expert Ajay K. Arora

SubjectDate Asked
Experience & minimum hours for GC application2/9/2012
  Q: Due to expected difficulty of collecting prior experience supporting documents from overseas, I plan ...
  A: The green card process should be for a full-time position only. This is generally considered to be ...
I 485 / OPT/H1B2/8/2012
  Q: I am a Master's student who changed from H4 to F1 for Spring 2012. My husband is about to file I-485 ...
  A: You can remain legally in the U.S. based solely on I-485 filing, and be issued EAD as well as ...
reentering usa on B1/B22/8/2012
  Q: good evening sir, my name is sandeepa poojary, i'had been usa for six month. i went usa on26thdec ...
  A: As you have been outside the U.S. for at least several months after your earlier visit lasting ...
H1B Intent to Revoke2/7/2012
  Q: "Hello Ajay, During my H1B Visa stamping, the Consulate Officer issued me a 221g and was going to ...
  A: It does not appear as if the Consulate will issue you an H1B visa stamp through the current H1B ...
L1B & L2 Simultaneously2/5/2012
  Q: I am currently in US on L1B expiring on Sep 2013 through company A. My wife is also in US on L1B ...
  A: An application for change of status from L1 to L2 status filed with the USCIS is an application that ...
L1A Renewal Denial2/3/2012
  Q: I had a L2 and my husband had a L1A that expire on Nov. 22, 2011. The company filled the petition ...
  A: Your husband's company can file another L1A petition for your husband. It is is approved by the ...
Visa Stamping while visiting a country2/3/2012
  Q: My husband changed his status from F1 to H4 here in the US. USCIS has sent us the approved notice. ...
  A: An H4 visa stamp will be required to enter the U.S. Normally a U.S. Consulate in a particular ...
H1B Denial and entry on F1 visa2/1/2012
  Q: I had applied for H1B visa with USCIS during my OPT period, which expires after five months from ...
  A: You can enter on your existing F1 status if you have unexpired F1 visa stamp in your passport. The ...
Which work visa would apply in this case?1/31/2012
  Q: My company wants to hire an employee in our New York office who has a dual citizenship of Australia ...
  A: Correct, H1B petition can be filed in April, with requested employment start date of Oct. 01, 2012. ...
Which work visa would apply in this case?1/31/2012
  Q: My company wants to hire an employee in our New York office who has a dual citizenship of Australia ...
  A: H1B petition cannot be filed at this time due to visa cap issues: http://www.uscis.gov/h-1b_count ...
Fiance Visa vs. Marrying in Mexico1/30/2012
  Q: Salutations. My question is regarding the pros and cons of bringing my fiance and her two kids ...
  A: If entry to the U.S. is made on the fiance visa, then marriage must occur within 90 days of entry, ...
Reactivation of old H1B (2008 quota)1/29/2012
  Q: I got my H1B approved in 2008 and initially came to US on H1B in Nov 2008. However, the funding for ...
  A: The H1B employer (whether this is the old H1B employer or a new employer makes no difference) will ...
I-485 question re. employment experience1/28/2012
  Q: I am getting ready to file my I-485 and found a problem: The resume that I submitted for my I-140 ...
  A: A resume is not required to be submitted with H1B petitons or I-140 petitions or I-485 applications, ...
Green Card status and trip abroad1/27/2012
  Q: My father and mother in law, both have Green Cards. They are not living in the United States but ...
  A: The one year clock for time spent outside the U.S. for any trip starts from date of departure, in ...
L1 Conditions for Employer1/26/2012
  Q: Could you please help me understand the conditions for any employer to be eligible to do L1 visa for ...
  A: There is no minimum # of employees required at the foreign company. However, it is expected that the ...
Recruitment phase of PERM1/24/2012
  Q: My employer is filing for my Labor Certification and and is currently on the advertising phase.Does ...
  A: Yes, the salary offered must be noted on the job notice posting prepared in connection with PERM ...
US Citizen Petition Brother1/24/2012
  Q: I was wondering how long does he have to wait to be called to get his residence. I had received only ...
  A: Information about the family sponsorship categories is here: www.h1b1.com/sponsor.htm Unless your ...
Porting I140 EB3 old priority dates1/24/2012
  Q: Here is the situation: (1) Employer-A. I-140 approved and later on revoked, with priority dated ...
  A: An approved I-140, even if subsequently revoked by the sponsoring employer, is useful for preserving ...
Marriage during OPT?1/21/2012
  Q: I am currently on F-1 status and it expires in 2015. I have a question regarding whether i can go to ...
  A: OPT is F1 status. I would recommend that you notify your DSO (also known as international student ...
Dates of experience letter from former employers1/21/2012
  Q: Then I got letters from my former employers for my experience, but they are dated 7 years ago. This ...
  A: Employment experience letters can be dated at the termination of your employment, or can be dated ...
H1B filing and LCA1/21/2012
  Q: My H1B was initiated by one of the employer before the quota was finished for 2011-2012 year in ...
  A: The certified LCA is not required to be revoked. In any event, only the employer which filed the LCA ...
Experience document for green card1/20/2012
  Q: I gained my experience out of America, back in my country as a physical therapist. Will I need to ...
  A: The I-140 requires submission of employment experience letter(s) from former employers if the ...
H1-B Visa holder marrying US Citizen1/17/2012
  Q: I am a H1-B visa holder and my visa expires late next year (2013). I am wanting to marry a US ...
  A: As you are divorced, you can remarry and be sponsored again with the filing of an immigrant ...
EB2 category1/17/2012
  Q: Can you tell me the step by step process for Eb-2. I work in HR and will have to file Eb-2 for an ...
  A: For an EB2 filing, a PERM application is filed with the Dept. of Labor requiring a either a Master's ...
Visa Renewal1/16/2012
  Q: If I obtain approval of an extension for an L1-B or H1-B visa (actually I am on an L1-B and my ...
  A: When your employer files an H1B or L1B extension petition with the USCIS, the approval notice issued ...
taxes/naturalization1/15/2012
  Q: my ignorance has plaed a big role also I consulted an attorney he told me that I would have to file ...
  A: In order to show "good moral character", required for the naturalization application to be approved, ...
L1 to H1B1/13/2012
  Q: I am in L1 Status. My L1 ends Oct 2012. My assignment with my company ends June 2012. I want to ...
  A: Due to visa cap issues, the H1B petition can be filed no earlier than April 01, 2012, and the ...
Marriage to a U.S. citizen1/13/2012
  Q: I am foreign student at U.S.A and I am planning to start the processing for green card and right ...
  A: I am assuming that your marriage will be with a U.S. citizen. The immigrant petition (I-130) along ...
EB2 eligibility1/12/2012
  Q: wish you Happy new year, i Have 3yrs indian bachelor+ 2years masters + 6yrs of experience in US came ...
  A: If your master's degree is in a field or subject related to your 3 year bachelor's degree, then you ...
Travel while change of status app. pending1/11/2012
  Q: I am filling my spouse's change of status application from H4 to F1. I remember the last time I had ...
  A: If your wife travels while her change of status application is pending, it will be denied by the ...
J1 waiver spouse, does that fall under cap?1/10/2012
  Q: My wife is on J1 and I am on J2. She is going to apply for her J1 waiver, once she receives that I ...
  A: You will be subject to the H1B visa cap, unless the petitioner is cap-exempt. In this instance, the ...
Filing I-485- Question on I-201/10/2012
  Q: I read somewhere that we need to submit the I-20 document from college. I have been out of college ...
  A: I-20's are not normally attached when filing the I-485 adjustment of status application. Thus, you ...
I-485 AOS and F11/9/2012
  Q: My husband is on a H1-B and I am just got my change of status from H4 to F1 approved a month back. I ...
  A: It is OK to file I-485 for both you and your husband together when your husband's priority date is ...
Valid H1, planning for L21/9/2012
  Q: I hold H1 for a company and had been to US on H1 as part of my work I still have a valid H1B visa ...
  A: It is a good plan to apply for L2 visa stamp at the Consulate, as you do not plan on working for the ...
Green Card change of location1/6/2012
  Q: Ajay K. Arora, I had the following question regarding my Green Card application: My current ...
  A: The green card process, initiated through the filing of a PERM application after there has been ...
Visitor visa while F2A is under process1/4/2012
  Q: My husband has recently applied for my F2A visa and it is at 'Initial Review' state. Now, if I want ...
  A: The Consulate is unlikely to issue you a visitor visa while your immigration process through ...
L1A Blanket eligibility query1/4/2012
  Q: I am with one of the top IT MNCs in India. I have overall experience of 5.2 years. I was in the ...
  A: The USCIS only requires one year of experience with the company supporting you for the L1A visa ...
GC through marriage to a U.S. citizen1/3/2012
  Q: I am foreign student in the U.S.A. with F1 status. I met my fiancé 4 years ago and now we have baby ...
  A: You can be sponsored for a green card once you are married to a U.S. citizen: ...
Changing jobs after I-14012/29/2011
  Q: My husband has applied for GC in the EB2 category and has his I-140 approved. Our priority date is ...
  A: If Co. B's PERM is certified, when the new I-140 is filed with the USCIS it will be filed with a ...
Changing jobs after I-14012/29/2011
  Q: My husband has applied for GC in the EB2 category and has his I-140 approved. Our priority date is ...
  A: I recommend that the promotion to the title of Senior Engineer be declined at this time since, ...
Changing jobs after I-14012/29/2011
  Q: My husband has applied for GC in the EB2 category and has his I-140 approved. Our priority date is ...
  A: Your husband can join Co. B now if company B files an H1B petition for him. Co. B will need to ...
Priority Date Current - Expected time for GC12/28/2011
  Q: My husband applied for GC in EB2 category. Our priority date is current. If we apply for GC now, ...
  A: It typically takes about 6 months for I-485 to be approved if filed now due to priority date being ...
HI visa and COS12/22/2011
  Q: I am an RN and previously had a HIC visa that expired in July 2011. I have an approved I-140 but i ...
  A: Both F and B visa categories do not allow for intention to immigrate to the U.S. Thus, the ...
H1b visa approval for only 1 year12/22/2011
  Q: sir, My H1b petition got approved for one year last week. Is it normal that these visas are ...
  A: Either the employer asked only for one year instead of 3 years, or the employer did not provide ...
Priority date current - apply for GC later?12/21/2011
  Q: I guess my case is a little strange as i don't want to apply for I-485 now even though my EB2 ...
  A: There is no deadline for filing an I-485 application when the priority date is current. Thus, the ...
H1B transfer Approved without I-94, I-290B filed12/20/2011
  Q: I was in F1 Status OPT( Optional Practical training) untill December 31st 2010, got my first H1B ...
  A: It is a good idea to submit at least a couple of very recent pay stubs from Co. A when Co. C files ...
H1B transfer Approved without I-94, I-290B filed12/20/2011
  Q: I was in F1 Status OPT( Optional Practical training) untill December 31st 2010, got my first H1B ...
  A: It would have been OK to go back to Employer A if there was no violation of status in the interim. ...
Job change after filling I-48512/20/2011
  Q: I was wondering when can a person change jobs after filling I 485. What is the procedure? And are ...
  A: I am assuming that your I-485 (adjustment of status application) filing was based on I-140 (petition ...
H1B transfer Approved without I-94, I-290B filed12/20/2011
  Q: I was in F1 Status OPT( Optional Practical training) untill December 31st 2010, got my first H1B ...
  A: You cannot remain in the U.S. legally based on pending appeal. You would have been able to continue ...
Query regarding my L1B Extension12/18/2011
  Q: Hope you are doing good. I am in US from last 3 years on L1B visa. I had a couple of questions on ...
  A: You can depart the U.S. anytime. However, if the L1B petition has not yet been approved at the time ...
L1B-Blanket Rejected12/18/2011
  Q: my L1-B Visa has been refused saying "Its not clearly Approavable" and the Visa Officer returned my ...
  A: If the letter from the Consulate does not indicate any additional documents requested by the ...
F1 to H4 or F1 THEN H112/14/2011
  Q: I am currently working on OPT which expires on 16th Feb 2012; My employer will file for my H1 after ...
  A: If your employer files an H1B petition no more than 60 days after OPT expiration (there is a 60 day ...
F1 to green card12/13/2011
  Q: I am currently working on H1 and my company will be filling my green card in EB2 category in one ...
  A: Your wife can file for adjustment of status along with your adjustment of status when your priority ...
L-1B Blanket petition12/13/2011
  Q: I wanted to ask a small query which is pestering me as my company is trying to process L-1B Blanket ...
  A: Yes, it is perfectly OK to work for the parent company in the U.S. Any type of relationship between ...
H1B petition employment start date12/12/2011
  Q: My employer applied for my H1B visa last November 10, 2011. I am currently here in the US under a ...
  A: You can continue to remain legally in the U.S. even if your I-94 expires since the H1B petition was ...
I-485 and presence in the U.S.12/12/2011
  Q: I will be eligible to apply for I-485 in January 2012. My wife has H4 till July 2013 and She is ...
  A: The foolproof method of determining that an adjustment of status (AOS) application has been properly ...
I-485 and presence in the U.S.12/12/2011
  Q: I will be eligible to apply for I-485 in January 2012. My wife has H4 till July 2013 and She is ...
  A: Your wife must be physically present on the day that the adjustment of status application is filed ...
H1B to L212/12/2011
  Q: I am on L1 visa and it is valid till 2013 May. My husband came to US on L2 visa which is valid till ...
  A: If your husband was granted change of status to H1B effective Oct. 2011, he will be unable to change ...
H1b cap exemption clarification12/10/2011
  Q: Company A file my H1B visa in April 2007 It had got stamped July 2007. I had not travelled USA in ...
  A: There is no official rule. It is only in our experience that the USCIS will accept H1B petition ...
L2 to H412/8/2011
  Q: I am currently on L1 through company A and company B has applied for my H1 & COS which has gone into ...
  A: Your family will have no problem in entering the U.S. on L2 visa status, unless your H1B petition is ...
Changing jobs after green card12/8/2011
  Q: Ajay My original sponsor (A)of green card laid me off before an year and got taken over by a ...
  A: As Company C responded to the RFE prior to approval of your adjustment of status application which ...
concurrent visa: can it stand alone12/7/2011
  Q: While being employed by employer A, I was filed a concurrent H1b visa by employer B. This year, I ...
  A: Yes, the concurrent H1B petition approval through employer B will allow you to continue to maintain ...
H1B transfer12/5/2011
  Q: I am currently on OPT and my H1 is being filed and hopefully I will get it before my OPT expires. My ...
  A: You will be subject to the visa cap based on the scenario provided in your email. As you are no ...
H1B renewal if I-140/I-485 filed?12/5/2011
  Q: I did my MBA from US and working with a direct company since 2009. I received my H1 until Mar 2012. ...
  A: If priority date is current (see www.h1b1.com/visawaiting.htm ) and I-485 can be filed based either ...
Work full time and study with I-485 pending?12/4/2011
  Q: I was an international student, i came here in July 2008. My parents applied for my green card and I ...
  A: Since your I-485 has been filed based on your priority date being current: ...
Remarry ex spouse12/4/2011
  Q: I gain my citizenship through marriage to USC.My marriage to the USC lasted for 6 years. After our ...
  A: Yes, you can marry your former spouse and sponsor her. The marriage will be given greater scrutiny ...
L2 to Visitor Visa12/3/2011
  Q: I am currently on L2 and My husband in L1 may have to return back by late Jan due to completion of ...
  A: You can file an application with the USCIS for a visitor visa requesting change of status from L2 to ...
H1 stamping denied-apply for H412/2/2011
  Q: My Husband went for H1b stamping in April 2011 and his stamping was denied in October 2011 because ...
  A: Since you are on H1B status, the Consulate will expect your husband to carry with him copy of your ...
Sponsoring for brother - Citizenship12/1/2011
  Q: I got my Citizenship in October. I want to sponsor H1B my brothers who did MBA. Do I need to own a ...
  A: Only a U.S. citizen can sponsor a sibling: www.h1b1.com/sponsor.htm A company can sponsor your ...
Date H1B revocation takes effect --more12/1/2011
  Q: I have the same question as another person has about the date that H1B revocation take effect. You ...
  A: The USCIS does not have a regulation on every point in immigration law. However, I stand by my ...
F1 Visa for H4 applicant11/30/2011
  Q: I am currently on H4 visa and want to pursue education and then take the job.I am planning to get a ...
  A: After admission to the program of study, and issuance of Form I-20 by the institute, an application ...
H1B visa denial at the Consulate11/29/2011
  Q: I went for H1B stamping in Kolkata and the consulate officer issued me a white form 221g refusing ...
  A: It is not illegal for an H1B employer to subcontract an employee. However, as a practical matter, ...
H1B Stamping in Canada11/28/2011
  Q: I came to US on a F-2 in 2007 then changed to a F-1 in 2008 and finally to an H1B this October 2011. ...
  A: Although the general advice is to apply in your home country, I do not see any disadvantage of ...
H1B Stamping in Canada11/28/2011
  Q: I came to US on a F-2 in 2007 then changed to a F-1 in 2008 and finally to an H1B this October 2011. ...
  A: You can apply in Canada, and the probability of success is quite high since you have completed your ...
Date H1B revocation take effect11/23/2011
  Q: I have a question about H1B revocation. I have worked for company A for 8 months with an approved ...
  A: When Co. A sent the revocation, it would have requested revocation based on date of termination of ...
Simultaneous Green Card Applications11/17/2011
  Q: My current employer "xyz" has started my Green Card application (i.e. trying to obtain the ...
  A: ABC would need to show that it can pay the offered salary, irrespective of current employment status ...
Simultaneous Green Card Applications11/17/2011
  Q: My current employer "xyz" has started my Green Card application (i.e. trying to obtain the ...
  A: Co. A can start the green card process in EB3, and Co. B can simultaneously start the green card ...
naturalization guidelines11/17/2011
  Q: we got our green card on May 2006. my wife went back to our country to study on Sept 2009 and ...
  A: For the 5 year window immediately preceding the filing of the naturalization application (3 year ...
Spouse Visa Question F2 vs H411/16/2011
  Q: Ajay, I have completed MBA Technology Management in May 2011. I am on OPT (f1) since July 1st 2011 ...
  A: Once your wife has entered the U.S. in F2 visa status, an application to change her status from F2 ...
Spouse Visa Question F2 vs H411/16/2011
  Q: Ajay, I have completed MBA Technology Management in May 2011. I am on OPT (f1) since July 1st 2011 ...
  A: Your wife can apply for F2 visa stamp now, as you are still maintaining F1 status until April 04, ...
lengthy green card process11/15/2011
  Q: Just wanted to know what is the most reasonable way for me to become a GC holder here in the US. I ...
  A: A parent must be a U.S. citizen to sponsor a married child. This will be the 3rd family preference ...
H1B academic to working visa11/15/2011
  Q: I have applied for H1B academic from my current J1 visa status and expecting to receive my H1B ...
  A: The new prospective H1B employer can file an H1B petition for you requesting change of status from ...
Green Card from Co. A to Co. B11/15/2011
  Q: My friend working in US for about 5 years applied for Green Card for him and his spouse thru Company ...
  A: Company B should start the green card process from the beginning through the filing of a PERM ...
H1B transfer limitations11/15/2011
  Q: If someone wants to transfer his/her H1B visa to other employer,is there any minimum time duration ...
  A: There is no minimum amount of time to be required with Employer A before Employer B can file an H1B ...
H1B and Adjustment of Status for R.N.11/14/2011
  Q: I am currently here in US on H1b(medical researcher). I possess BS Bio, Nursing & MD degree in Phil. ...
  A: Although you appear to be qualified for the EB2 category, it is unlikely that the case can be ...
H4 while pregnant11/13/2011
  Q: I am applying for my H1B and my wife's H4 in Jan 2012. My wife will be 3 month pregnant by that ...
  A: As the dependent of the H1B principal, your wife is eligible to apply for H4 status irrespective of ...
H1B and position of Chef11/12/2011
  Q: Ajay I have 3 years experience as a chef and I'm 24 years old I'd like to persue an associate degree ...
  A: Completion of a bachelor's degree or equivalent is required in order for an employer in the U.S. to ...
Affidavit of support nad 3 years tax returns11/11/2011
  Q: I make 45k a year meaning more than I need to be able to sponsor my spouse in a green card marriage ...
  A: Recent guidance from the USCIS requires that only copy of the latest tax return is required to show ...
H1B and travel with advance parole11/11/2011
  Q: Greetings, if applying to green card from H1b (via spouse), Do I need to apply for form I-131 for ...
  A: You are not required to apply for advance parole (AP) document or EAD (employment authorization ...
H1B transfer query11/11/2011
  Q: My H1 got effective on October 1 2011. Even before it got effective, I got an offer from a bigger ...
  A: The online system will not indicate whether extension of status has been granted or not, ...
Green Card by Marriage11/8/2011
  Q: I have been with my fiance for the last 4 years and we are about to marriage, I am American citizen, ...
  A: All sponsorship paperwork can be filed concurrently, including your husband's (when you are married) ...
L1B/L2 immigration Issues11/8/2011
  Q: My L1B visa expired on April 2011 but I94 is valid till Dec 2013. So I am legally working here on my ...
  A: If your wife files for L2 now, after her current I-94 has already expired, she will be granted ...
Marriage to U.S. citizen and sponsorship11/8/2011
  Q: Can a person here in the U.S. on a visitation visa legally marry without returning to Russia. This ...
  A: I am assuming that one of the partners to the marriage is a U.S. citizen. The marriage and ...
Leave letter for L2 visa11/8/2011
  Q: I am applying for L2 visa, as my husband has L1B visa. We both work in same organization, and I will ...
  A: The Consulate can ask for any document in connection with visa issuance, including an employment ...
L1A/Green Card and Marrige11/6/2011
  Q: good evening! I am Brazilian and currently living in the USA under L1A visa. My employer is already ...
  A: It appears that your girlfriend does not have a visitor or other visa to enter the U.S. Thus, you ...
Employment Verification Letter for AOS11/5/2011
  Q: During PERM process employer determines the Prevailing Wage . Say the prevailing wage is $90K and ...
  A: It is OK if the employment verification letter indicates $90K. Indeed, it is best to be as ...
Marriage and Immigration and H1B11/4/2011
  Q: I am currently on H1B and as I am already married with a US Citizen, I thought of skipping the ...
  A: H1B status is automatically considered to be employment authorization for the specific employer who ...
B1 to H1 having a valid H1B approval11/4/2011
  Q: I have by H1B petition approved on Aug2010 and its valid until Aug2012. I couldn't go for a Visa ...
  A: There is no problem with requesting change of status to H1B even though you already have H1B ...
Marriage and Immigration11/3/2011
  Q: I am currently on H1B and as I am already married with a US Citizen, I thought of skipping the ...
  A: The advantage of proceeding through an experienced immigration attorney is that you will not forfeit ...
B1 to H1 having a valid H1B approval11/3/2011
  Q: I have by H1B petition approved on Aug2010 and its valid until Aug2012. I couldn't go for a Visa ...
  A: If the H1B petition approval notice indicates that you have been granted either change of status to ...
Change of Status to B2 / Extension denied11/3/2011
  Q: I was in US on H1B visa for 6 years with I-94 valid till 2nd June 2011. Based on my daughter's ...
  A: You can work for the U.S. company in India without any restrictions. In other words, you are not ...
H1B transfer query11/2/2011
  Q: My H1 got effective on October 1 2011. Even before it got effective, I got an offer from a bigger ...
  A: That is correct, the petition should be approved through Co. B., but the USCIS is unlikely to grant ...
prevailing wage for a physical therapist.11/1/2011
  Q: Mr Ajay, How are you? My husband is supposed to get a visa screen in few months. Is it ok to apply ...
  A: There are no supporting documents on the Form 9141, which is filed electronically. However, if the ...
B1 to H1 having a valid H1B approval11/1/2011
  Q: I have by H1B petition approved on Aug2010 and its valid until Aug2012. I couldn't go for a Visa ...
  A: You can enter the U.S. on B1 visa, but this category does not allow for employment in the U.S. You ...
H1B visa cap 2011-1210/28/2011
  Q: My question is, if my petition for H1b is filed and then count reaches 65000, will the petition be ...
  A: As long as the H1B petition is filed before the visa cap is reached, your case will be included ...
L1 to L2 and I-48510/27/2011
  Q: I am in US on L1B and my husband is in US on L1A (valid till Feb 2013). We both work for same ...
  A: You can change status to L2 based on your husband's L1A status. This is an application that you ...
L1 to H110/27/2011
  Q: I am currently working in L1A visa and I am in 6th year of stay in USA. My 6th year ends in Sep ...
  A: There is a maximum allowable period of six years in H1B status. Unfortunately, time spent in L1A or ...
Marriage and Immigration10/27/2011
  Q: I am currently on H1B and as I am already married with a US Citizen, I thought of skipping the ...
  A: The size of the marriage ceremony, or that it is civil rather than religious, does not raise any red ...
I-94 expiring soon, receipt notice not received10/25/2011
  Q: My I94 expires on 30-Oct 2011. My employer has applied with USCIS since 10-Oct. However i have not ...
  A: It typically takes 2 to 3 weeks to receive the receipt notice by mail from the USCIS after filing. ...
Working on H1B but H4 approved10/21/2011
  Q: My H1B visa was approved July 20th 2011 with a start date of October 1st 2011. However my H4 ...
  A: As you can hold only one status at a time in the U.S., and the latest action by the USCIS is ...
Stepparent sponsoring child10/19/2011
  Q: My mom married my step dad before i was 17. Ive been living in the US illegally. Now im 18 and so i ...
  A: As the marriage occurred before you were 18, you can be sponsored by your stepfather and adjust ...
Keep H1B visa while spouse is on A-2 Visa10/18/2011
  Q: Is there a way to get around this situation of keeping my H-1 status while my wife keeps her A-2 ...
  A: Yes, you can maintain your respective independent status. In the future, if you prefer you can stay ...
L1B and Divorce10/18/2011
  Q: I got my divorce couple of months back , and I am yet to receive my divorce papers from court of ...
  A: Marital status is not relevant in L1 cases. It is relevant only in L2 cases. You can take the ...
J-1 student in USA marrying Canadian10/14/2011
  Q: I am just starting my Ph.D program and i have permit to live here during 5 years. I plan to get ...
  A: You can be legally married in the U.S. irrespective of your immigration status. In addition, ...
H1B Visa stamping and client assignment10/13/2011
  Q: I am currently on H1B visa status which started this Oct 1. Before this I was on F1 OPT status which ...
  A: The odds of being issued a visa stamp are good since you have a degree from the U.S. and, more ...
H1B married to American Citizen10/12/2011
  Q: I'm on H1B working here in US and I recently got married to an American Citizen. My current H1B is ...
  A: You must discontinue your employment between Nov. 18 until EAD is issued. Failure to do so will be a ...
Change of Status to B2 / Extension denied10/11/2011
  Q: I was in US on H1B visa for 6 years with I-94 valid till 2nd June 2011. Based on my daughter's ...
  A: As you departed the U.S. in August (when the I-94 had expired in June), and since the B2 was ...
Green card when turning 2110/9/2011
  Q: . cause im 20 right now and im dependent still to my dad who have a working visa (H-1b).. his been ...
  A: You would need to change to an visa status independent of your father prior to turning 21 years of ...
H1-B Extension when I-140 approved10/3/2011
  Q: my H1-B expired Dec 25th 2010 after which I left states on Dec 23rd 2010 for India, but my GC was in ...
  A: Yes, since I-140 has been approved, an H1B petition can be filed for you by an employer in the U.S. ...
I-130 & I-48510/3/2011
  Q: my wife and i decided to get married 6 weeks after she arrived. she can remain here legally until ...
  A: I-485 can be filed concurrently with the I-130. Alternatively, I-485 can be filed after I-130 has ...
I-485 pending and F1/EAD10/1/2011
  Q: I had applied for a green card (EB3 category) in 2007 and received an EAD, AP and approved I-140 but ...
  A: You have abandoned your I-485 application since you either departed the U.S. without advance parole ...
H1B transfer denied10/1/2011
  Q: They filed my H1 transfer and Got a RFE. The company replied the RFE but the petition got denied. ...
  A: I stand by my earlier answer. When the second H1B petition filed again by the new employer is ...
H1B transfer denied10/1/2011
  Q: They filed my H1 transfer and Got a RFE. The company replied the RFE but the petition got denied. ...
  A: There is only a 10-day grace period in H1B status. Thus, as you are no longer maintaining H1B status ...
I-130 & I-485 for my father9/30/2011
  Q: I am a US citizen and I just filed I-130 & I-485 for my father who is here with me with a B1 visa ...
  A: Your father can continue to remain legally in the U.S. once the sponsorship paperwork including the ...
J-1 visa to H1B9/29/2011
  Q: I am planning to file H1 b visa becoz my employer is ready to sponser my H1 visa. Currently i am on ...
  A: I have to revise my earlier answer. I had mistakenly assumed at one point in my response that your ...
J-1 visa to H1B9/29/2011
  Q: I am planning to file H1 b visa becoz my employer is ready to sponser my H1 visa. Currently i am on ...
  A: The H1B petition can be filed requesting start date no earlier than Oct. 01, 2011. However, it ...
J-1 visa to H1B9/29/2011
  Q: I am planning to file H1 b visa becoz my employer is ready to sponser my H1 visa. Currently i am on ...
  A: There is a 30-day grace period in J visa status, which will allow you to remain legally in the U.S. ...
marriage to Chinese9/29/2011
  Q: I want to marry my Chinese woman while she is here in the U.S. on a visa, October 2011. She must ...
  A: I do not recommend entering on visitor visa with the explicit intention of marriage to a U.S. ...
marriage to u.s. citizen9/28/2011
  Q: My future wife lives in Shanghai, China. We wish to get married before her current visa expires ...
  A: You may want to proceed with an experienced immigration lawyer if you do not already have ...
marriage to u.s. citizen9/28/2011
  Q: My future wife lives in Shanghai, China. We wish to get married before her current visa expires ...
  A: It is OK to be married here: www.h1b1.com/Uscitizen.htm All sponsorship paperwork is filed ...
EAD9/28/2011
  Q: My L1B has got rejected and I have travelled to US on L2 Do you think my L1B rejection can impact my ...
  A: The question on I-765 is asking about previous filings of I-765. You have not previously filed ...
H1B extension and 6 year limit9/27/2011
  Q: I ve stayed outsie US (in India) for the period Jan '08 to June 09 (more than 1 yr). My 6 yr limit ...
  A: When applying for H1B extension effective June 2012, I recommend that the employer in a cover letter ...
L2 to H1B visa status change9/27/2011
  Q: Here is some background info before I go ahead with my questions: 1. I am on L2 visa which is ...
  A: Yes, H1B petition can be filed requesting start date to take effect up to 6 months from date of ...
3 yrs of no response to 221g for H1B9/27/2011
  Q: I attended H1B Visa interview at Chennai(India) consulate in the month of Jan 2008. VO gave me 221g ...
  A: You can safely assume that the visa stamping application was denied. However, this was based on ...
L2 to H1B visa status change9/26/2011
  Q: Here is some background info before I go ahead with my questions: 1. I am on L2 visa which is ...
  A: Your H4 application should be filed along with your husband's H1B petition, so that when the H1B ...
H1B extension and 6 year limit9/26/2011
  Q: I ve stayed outsie US (in India) for the period Jan '08 to June 09 (more than 1 yr). My 6 yr limit ...
  A: You have 2 options: either obtain extension until June, 2012, or apply for a new 6 year period since ...
F1-OPT to H1B9/21/2011
  Q: I recently graduated with a Ph.D. from a top us university. My OPT is valid till July 2012. My ...
  A: It makes no difference to your green card process later whether the H1B was accepted in the master's ...
Labor certification for Physical therapist.9/21/2011
  Q: I wonder whether labor certification is necessary for physical therapists when applying for green ...
  A: Please note that it typically takes 2 months for prevailing wage to be issued, and then I-140 ...
F1-OPT to H1B9/20/2011
  Q: I recently graduated with a Ph.D. from a top us university. My OPT is valid till July 2012. My ...
  A: It is OK to travel in September and enter on unexpired F1 visa stamp. Then the H1B petition can be ...
Continuous residency and naturalization9/20/2011
  Q: I have been a Permanent Resident since May 2008, however several months later I enrolled in graduate ...
  A: It appears that the naturalization application can be successfully filed, since you continued to ...
Labor certification for Physical therapist.9/20/2011
  Q: I wonder whether labor certification is necessary for physical therapists when applying for green ...
  A: If your husband is a licensed physical therapist, and his position requires an advanced degree as a ...
F2 or H4 for Spouse9/19/2011
  Q: I basically have a question regarding my spouse visa status. I am planning to get married by Dec, ...
  A: H visa status allows for intention to immigrate to the U.S., unlike the F visa category. Thus, the ...
H1b filing acknowledgement9/16/2011
  Q: My company is filing H1b for me.How much time it will take to receive the acknowledgement number? ...
  A: The USCIS typically issues the receipt notice about 2 weeks after it has received the petition. This ...
H4 Extension Pending Filing for H1B9/15/2011
  Q: I have a question regarding I-539 (extension of stay)withdrawal. I filed I-539 for H4 extension ...
  A: If your H1B is filed through premium processing, the USCIS will approve it, but may grant only ...
H4 Extension Pending Filing for H1B9/15/2011
  Q: I have a question regarding I-539 (extension of stay)withdrawal. I filed I-539 for H4 extension ...
  A: If you withdraw the I-539, you will be violating status as your existing I-94 has expired. H1B ...
H1B visa stamp9/15/2011
  Q: I came in US on F1 in Dec 2007. Finished my MBA in 2009. Worked on OPT with an employer, they ...
  A: You can apply in Canada, but not Mexico. Applying in Mexico requires an existing H1B stamp (even if ...
H1B renewal9/15/2011
  Q: I came in US on F1 in Dec 2007. Finished my MBA in 2009. Worked on OPT with an employer, they ...
  A: Your employer would file an H1B petition requesting extension of H1B status. You would not be ...
L2 EAD to H1B9/14/2011
  Q: My wife is in US from Mar 2008 in L2 visa. She got her L2 EAD in Jul 2008 and started working. In ...
  A: Time spent in L2 status does not count towards the maximum 5 or 7 years allowed in L1B or L1A ...
H1B multiple filings9/13/2011
  Q: I am in US on H4 and looking for an employer who can file H1B for their new position.as at the same ...
  A: Until you actually obtain approval of an H1B petition filed for you, you will remain in underlying ...
OPT9/13/2011
  Q: I am studying Masters in a very reputed university here. I am currently a full time student on H4 ...
  A: You must have pursued a full-time course of study for at least one academic year (usually 9 months) ...
English/American marriage9/13/2011
  Q: Arora, I am a U.S. citizen engaged to marry a U.K citizen. We have been together for quite a ...
  A: If the primary purpose of your fiancee is not to marry you, she can enter on the visa waiver program ...
H1B Visa stamping from Mexico or Canada9/13/2011
  Q: I am currently on H1B Visa and working in IT with state government. I am an India born, New Zealand ...
  A: You can apply in either Canada or Mexico. However, as you can read from the following link, the ...
H1B- Travel9/11/2011
  Q: I am on the H1B visa since Oct 2010. I also have Canadian PR since 2009. To fulfill my Canadian PR ...
  A: Yes, you can travel on existing unexpired H1B visa stamp, since the purpose of your entry will be ...
B2-Visa, Visa Waiver Programme9/10/2011
  Q: I was told by Frankfurt Consulate in Germany that a B2-Visa can have a period of validity up to ten ...
  A: There is no right under the immigration laws to visit a spouse who resides in the U.S. In addition, ...
Filing for sister9/9/2011
  Q: I am filing for my sister an I-130. She has a son under 21 and husband. I was wondering if I need a ...
  A: You would file only one I-130 (for your sister) with one filing fee. The rest of her family will be ...
B2-Visa, Visa Waiver Programme9/9/2011
  Q: I was told by Frankfurt Consulate in Germany that a B2-Visa can have a period of validity up to ten ...
  A: When entering on B2 visa, the immigration inspector at the port-of-entry in most cases allows entry ...
L1 RFE9/9/2011
  Q: My company filed my L1 extension and i got RFE My visa and i-94 are already expired. As my wife ...
  A: There is no formal way to remain legally in the U.S. if L1/L2 is denied. However, when your wife is ...
L1 RFE9/8/2011
  Q: My company filed my L1 extension and i got RFE My visa and i-94 are already expired. As my wife ...
  A: You can continue to be employed for up to 240 days after I-94 expiration. However, if the L1 ...
H1b + PWD + Spouse visa issue9/8/2011
  Q: I got married in May 2011 and then I was on F-1 visa. I tried twice for my wife's F-2 visa but both ...
  A: The prevailing wage determination from the Department of Labor should take no more than 7 business ...
H1b + PWD + Spouse visa issue9/8/2011
  Q: I got married in May 2011 and then I was on F-1 visa. I tried twice for my wife's F-2 visa but both ...
  A: It appears that you have graduated or are about to graduate in your program of study, and perhaps ...
Lawful permanent residency Cut-off-dates9/7/2011
  Q: "My husband (German) is a lawful permanent resident in the US. I am German,too and are waiting for ...
  A: Your husband should complete the naturalization application and file with the USCIS: ...
Lawful permanent residency Cut-off-dates9/7/2011
  Q: "My husband (German) is a lawful permanent resident in the US. I am German,too and are waiting for ...
  A: Our earlier email has the correct interpretation: the cutoff date is Dec. 01, 2008. Please disregard ...
H1B visa and F-1 visa9/7/2011
  Q: Ajay, My H1B is valid since April, and it's filed requesting consular processing. My visa status is ...
  A: You should apply for and obtain H1B visa stamp a U.S. Consulate in your home country. In any event, ...
H 4 period gap9/6/2011
  Q: I need your advice. When my husband transferred his H1B , he got new H1B period , which was few more ...
  A: I am assuming that your husband's current H1B status does not expire at least until 01/12/2012. In ...
Lawful permanent residency Cut-off-dates9/6/2011
  Q: "My husband (German) is a lawful permanent resident in the US. I am German,too and are waiting for ...
  A: For F2A category in September visa bulletin, the cutoff date is Dec. 01, 2008: ...
H4 to H1B Transfer9/6/2011
  Q: I am currently holding H4 visa and currently in US.I have a question,if I apply for a H1B visa ...
  A: If the H1B petition is denied by the USCIS, there will be no impact on your visa status, as you will ...
h1 transfer part-time job8/30/2011
  Q: I was previously on H1b with my company and my last day was 15th July.I have already applied for my ...
  A: Application to change status to H4 should be filed with the USCIS. Typically it would be shown that ...
LCA requirement8/30/2011
  Q: I am currently in my sixth year of h1b...expires sept 9...i have used all my recapture time as well. ...
  A: You can use the current LCA which has already been certified for h1b 7th year extension. However, ...
L1 to H1 and back to L18/27/2011
  Q: I'm currently on L1B working with a company A working in US right now. I applied for L1 to H1 ...
  A: If the H1B petition is revoked by the employer prior to its validity period, then you will continue ...
H1B transfer and OPT8/24/2011
  Q: Ajay, Firstly,Thank you for answering all my previous questions with such promptness, it really ...
  A: Please see our earlier response: Co. B can file an H1B petition for you, but the requested start ...
Labor certification for Physical therapist.8/24/2011
  Q: I wonder whether labor certification is necessary for physical therapists when applying for green ...
  A: The I-140 immigrant petition in EB3 category for Schedule A occupations (licensed physical ...
H1B visa status8/24/2011
  Q: I am from U.A.E. I found a job in U.S on my last vacation they applied for my H1 visa ...
  A: Please check with the employer who filed H1B petition for you, as the USCIS will communicate only ...
L1 when foreign employer closed8/23/2011
  Q: I am going to apply for L1 Individual visa through my employer. I want to know few things from your ...
  A: Based on the facts stated in your email, you are not eligible for L1 filing since there is no ...
L1 when foreign employer closed8/23/2011
  Q: I am going to apply for L1 Individual visa through my employer. I want to know few things from your ...
  A: It is OK if the first company closed. However, the company where you gained the qualifying ...
L1 when foreign employer closed8/23/2011
  Q: I am going to apply for L1 Individual visa through my employer. I want to know few things from your ...
  A: If you gained the qualifying experience through a company that is now closed, the L1 petition cannot ...
L1 to H1 and back to L18/23/2011
  Q: I'm currently on L1B working with a company A working in US right now. I applied for L1 to H1 ...
  A: If your employer requested "change of status" then you will automatically be on H1B status per the ...
H1B visa stamping in Mexico8/22/2011
  Q: I am one of the physician practicing in Harlingen Texas, USA. I would need some important ...
  A: You will be applying for renewal of H1B visa stamp. If for some reason the Consulate does not issue ...
H1b Transfer8/21/2011
  Q: I am currently on OPT. It expires on Sep 13th. I also have approved H1B notice that will come into ...
  A: Co. B can file an H1B petition for you, but the requested start date cannot be earlier than Oct. 01 ...
H1B extension after 2l1b+h1b stay is 6 year8/21/2011
  Q: I stayed in US 6 years but not continuously with a break of 7 months,5 months and 8 months in three ...
  A: You will not be subject to the visa cap when an employer files an H1B petition for you (after you ...
H1B extension after 2l1b+h1b stay is 6 year8/21/2011
  Q: I stayed in US 6 years but not continuously with a break of 7 months,5 months and 8 months in three ...
  A: If you stay outside the U.S. continuously for one year, and your H1B visa stamp in passport has ...
H1B extension after 2l1b+h1b stay is 6 year8/21/2011
  Q: I stayed in US 6 years but not continuously with a break of 7 months,5 months and 8 months in three ...
  A: You can remain an aggregate of six years in H1B status. The amount of time spent in L1A/L1B counts ...
RFE for " Time Limitation"8/20/2011
  Q: I always appreciate your help and being able to ask you for legal advice. My husband applied for H1 ...
  A: An answer to the RFE should be submitted to the USCIS indicating the dates spent in H1B status in ...
h4 stamping in Canada8/20/2011
  Q: Is there any complication if my husband and myself go to Canada on 28th Sep and come back by Oct 4th ...
  A: Please take note of the following excerpt from ...
Canadian citizen marriage to U.S. boyfriend.8/19/2011
  Q: While I was visiting my boyfriend of only a couple of months in augusta,GA we decided to get married ...
  A: I recommend marrrying within the U.S., since the sponsorship paperwork that follows the marriage ...
sponsorship of brother8/16/2011
  Q: I would like to sponsor my married brother. He lives in Germany but they are purchasing a condo here ...
  A: You can sponsor your brother in the 4th family preference category: www.h1b1.com/sponsor.htm It ...
Green card and EAD8/14/2011
  Q: Ajay, You had told me earlier that if I file for green card via marriage I will receive an EAD card ...
  A: The EAD application can be filed concurrently with the immigrant petition and adjustment of status ...
F1 Visa Stamping8/9/2011
  Q: I have filed my I-539. If I get my status changed to F-1, I know that if i leave the country I ...
  A: If granted change of status to F1, you do not have to travel outside the U.S. However, if you do ...
job position in permanent residence.8/9/2011
  Q: My husband plans to apply for permanent residence. He plans to apply with a different job position ...
  A: If your husband is qualified for the new job at the time that the green card process is started, ...
F1 to H1B and travel8/7/2011
  Q: My employer wants to process H1B for me, and the lawyer says that he would prefer if I go back to my ...
  A: If H1B is filed requesting consular processing (instead of change of status), after petition ...
When to apply for H1B1?8/7/2011
  Q: I am a Singapore citizen under F1, OPT till January 30, 2012. I currently hold a job and my employer ...
  A: It is recommended that H1B1 petition be filed soon so that approval occurs prior to OPT expiration ...
Fiancee visa/spousal immigration8/7/2011
  Q: I am a doctoral candidate at a major university doing studies in Spanish Literature. My fiancee is ...
  A: Whether K1 or K3, affidavit of support is required, and in your current circumstances a co-sponsor ...
H1b Transfer8/7/2011
  Q: My H1B visa got approved this year and will come into effect on Oct 1, 2011. Can I transfer to a new ...
  A: Any law firm can prepare the H1B petition. After the new employer signs it, the law firm will file ...
H1b Transfer8/5/2011
  Q: My H1B visa got approved this year and will come into effect on Oct 1, 2011. Can I transfer to a new ...
  A: The new company (Company B) will file an H1B petition requesting start date of Oct. 01. You will not ...
F1 visa while sponsored by U.S. citizen spouse8/5/2011
  Q: I am here in US in F1 visa. I just got married to an US citizen.do I have to maintain my F1 status ...
  A: If the sponsorship paperwork has been properly filed (including both the I-130 petition for alien ...
h1 transfer part-time job8/4/2011
  Q: Sorry, I am a little confused. If my husband's H1 start date is Oct1 and he gets the approval on sep ...
  A: Yes, an H1B petition can be filed for part-time job, as long as the position still requires a ...
spouse visa8/4/2011
  Q: I just got married and my wife is in nepal. I am a green card holder and currently applying for ...
  A: It is a bit faster if you file an immigrant petition for your wife now in the F2A category: ...
Extension of status8/3/2011
  Q: I have applied for my visa extension and have received receipt indicating that application and fees ...
  A: Yes, you can continue to remain in the U.S. based on filing an application to extend status with the ...
Fiancee visa/spousal immigration8/2/2011
  Q: I am a doctoral candidate at a major university doing studies in Spanish Literature. My fiancee is ...
  A: Your fiancee would apply for the K1 visa stamp at a U.S. Consulate once you have successfully filed ...
Joining late on F1 visa8/2/2011
  Q: If a student has been granted F1 visa against an I-20 form with a program start date of end of ...
  A: You should arrive in the U.S. no more than 60 days prior to start of the semester. Thus, you should ...
New H1B stamp in Matamoras, mexico8/1/2011
  Q: I am on H4 visa and my H1B visa is approved with the start date October 1st. I am planning to take ...
  A: As you are a third country national (TCN) and do not already have H1B visa stamp in your passport ...
I 485 question7/30/2011
  Q: I am a US citizen. My parents came to US on tourist visas. I subsequently applied I 130 and got it ...
  A: Your parents can remain legally in the U.S. since their adjustment of status (I-485) applications ...
H1B visa cap7/29/2011
  Q: I am a Masters’ student and am currently on H4 visa. I am in the final semesters of my course. As ...
  A: You will automatically fall in the master's cap, but if the master's cap is reached first (it is ...
Spouse's immigration status on naturalization app.7/29/2011
  Q: I am currently eligible to apply for naturalization. My spouse have entered US legally but his visa ...
  A: Since your spouse is not a Lawful Permanent Resident, write "Other" and then in the blank field put ...
Proof of Financial Statement7/29/2011
  Q: I provided my sponsor's (who is my spouse) bank financial statement which was 7 months older one to ...
  A: The USCIS will accept the current information on I-134 including copy of latest federal tax return ...
H1 B transfer while on OPT Cap gap7/27/2011
  Q: I am currently working for Employer A. My OPT was expired on June 30th, 2011. My employer A filed my ...
  A: You can work for Co. B on OPT as you have cap-gap extension of OPT. On Oct. 01 you will ...
L1B to H1B7/27/2011
  Q: I came to US on Jan 03 2011 on L1B trhough company A. I had to travel on L1B as my H1B petition ...
  A: If Co. B requested consular processing instead of change of status, when H1B is approved you can ...
H1B renewal post 6 years7/26/2011
  Q: Please find below my status: 2001-2003: F1 2004-10/04: OPT 10/04-10/10: H1B 6 years (All 6 years ...
  A: Yes, your H1B transfer through Co. B should be approved for 3 years based on I-140 approval through ...
Marriage to U.S. citizen7/26/2011
  Q: Can a person from Russia who is here a tourist visa marry legally in the United States? Can you ...
  A: Yes, EAD will be received within the U.S. in about 2 to 3 months after the sponsorship paperwork is ...
Marriage to U.S. citizen7/26/2011
  Q: Can a person from Russia who is here a tourist visa marry legally in the United States? Can you ...
  A: Yes, you can marry in the U.S., and if your spouse is a U.S. citizen, you can be sponsored within ...
RFE on Birth Certificate7/25/2011
  Q: I submitted-130 for my parents . My birth certificate doesn't have the my name and for my mother as ...
  A: The RFE should provide for alternate evidence, such as affidavits of birth. In our experience, two ...
I-4857/25/2011
  Q: Good morning Can you please give me your advice in the following matter? I was working in a ...
  A: You are supposed to notify the USCIS through a letter (referred to as AC21 letter) when you have ...
H1B clock reset question7/24/2011
  Q: Below are the dates of my US stay: visa type Date of entry Date of Exit Total days L1 ...
  A: As you were outside the U.S. for one year (brief visit to the U.S. may be OK during the one year ...
H4 Visa7/23/2011
  Q: I have spent sometime to understand various suggestions you have given on various different queries. ...
  A: An H4 application cannot be filed within the U.S. as you are not presently in the U.S. When your ...
sponsoring spouse by u.s. citizen7/23/2011
  Q: I am a us born citizen but my wife is from Mexico. Is there any way I can make her legal because I ...
  A: If your wife is in the U.S. currently, but entered without inspection, under current laws she cannot ...
L1B to H1B7/23/2011
  Q: I came to US on Jan 03 2011 on L1B trhough company A. I had to travel on L1B as my H1B petition ...
  A: Co. B can file H1B petition for you. You will not be subject to the visa cap as you previously had ...
H1 Approved H4 Pending7/22/2011
  Q: My H1B visa was approved July 20th 2011 with a start date of October 1st 2011. However my H4 ...
  A: You can remain legally in the U.S. after Sept. 17 based on pending H4 exension. If pending H4 ...
naturalization papers?7/22/2011
  Q: Hey, I'm not sure if this counts as an immigration question, but I hope so! My entire family was ...
  A: Once you have a U.S. passport, it is easy enough to renew or obtain a duplicate in case it is lost; ...
Question on Travel under OPT7/20/2011
  Q: I have a quick question on my international travel, it would be great if you able to answer me. ...
  A: It is OK to travel and enter on unexpired F1 visa stamp, since H1B petition has already been ...
Sponsoring Parents7/20/2011
  Q: I am a naturalized U.S. Citizen. I would like to sponsor my parents for their green card. They ...
  A: According to the U.S. State Dept http://travel.state.gov/visa/questions/questions_1253.html#10 My ...
L2 and pregnancy7/20/2011
  Q: I must take a decision and hope you can help me; I recently got pregnant and my now husband and I ...
  A: L visa category allows for intention to immigrate to the U.S. (unlike B1/B2 visitor visa category). ...
Interview before H1B petition expires7/19/2011
  Q: My H1B petition was approved on Oct. 2008. But due to the market downtime my sponsor couldn't take ...
  A: It is unlikely that the Consulate will issue you a visa stamp so close to expiration of the H1B ...
Job change before AOS through DV20127/19/2011
  Q: I have L1-B visa and currently work in the US. I won green card lottery this year (DV2012). Based on ...
  A: Yes, Co. B can file an H1B petition for you, and the petition should be included within the visa cap ...
Sponsoring Parents7/18/2011
  Q: I am a naturalized U.S. Citizen. I would like to sponsor my parents for their green card. They ...
  A: Yes, all sponsorship paperwork is filed concurrently including I-130, I-485, I-765, I-131, I-864, ...
Change of Visa status from H-4 to F-17/18/2011
  Q: I am going to start my masters on H-4 visa from fall-2011 and planning to file for change of my visa ...
  A: An application to change status to F1 is signed by the applicant, and not the university. However, ...
naturalization papers?7/18/2011
  Q: Hey, I'm not sure if this counts as an immigration question, but I hope so! My entire family was ...
  A: You can always obtain a replacement passport from the U.S. Department of State if you lose your ...
Blanket L1B and blanket L1A rejected.7/18/2011
  Q: I work in India for an IT firm with a total experience of 8 years. 3 years ago I had applied for L1B ...
  A: Your company should file an H1B petition for you with the USCIS, as long as you have at least the ...
L1B to H1B or H47/17/2011
  Q: Please help me in this, I am in India working for a well known IT company, i am getting married ...
  A: You will be granted change of status within the U.S., and will not be required to depart the U.S. as ...
L1B to H1B or H47/17/2011
  Q: Please help me in this, I am in India working for a well known IT company, i am getting married ...
  A: Yes, you can change from L1B to H1B within the U.S. if there is an employer willing to file H1B ...
H1B approval and date of filing7/14/2011
  Q: my employer has filed my case for H1B in June where as my friends case is filed in April so when ...
  A: Your friend can enter in L1B if she plans on working for the L1B employer. If she will not work for ...
H1-F2 -h4 visa7/14/2011
  Q: Sorry, I am a little confused. If my husband's H1 start date is Oct1 and he gets the approval on sep ...
  A: You can always travel outside the U.S. and obtain F2 visa stamp at a U.S. Consulate in Canada, or in ...
Priority date of old 140 for my new GC?7/13/2011
  Q: I have I-140 approved from my previous employer in EB-2 category. My current employer is in the ...
  A: Yes, you can maintain the earlier priority date unless the previously approved Form I-140 petition ...
H- 1B Educational euivalency7/13/2011
  Q: Is it really necessary to get a educational equivalency service done for degrees earned overseas? Or ...
  A: If you are referring to educational equivalency for F1 student visa purposes, that depends on the ...
H1b visa waiting time7/12/2011
  Q: Following are the questions I have regarding waiting time for H1B visa. Background:I am working in ...
  A: I meant to state Oct. 01, 2011 instead of 2012. If petition is approved in Nov. 2011, you should ...
H4 to H1B conversion7/11/2011
  Q: Please help me with the process of conversion from H4 to H1.I am on H4 right now and I am looking ...
  A: You must be present in the U.S. when the H4 extension application is filed, and continue to be ...
Marriage based Green card on VWP7/11/2011
  Q: I am a US citizen living in Australia since 2003 with my husband. We got married in India in 2002 – ...
  A: The minimum income requirement is $18,387 as per http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-864p.pdf I ...
H4 to H1B conversion7/11/2011
  Q: Please help me with the process of conversion from H4 to H1.I am on H4 right now and I am looking ...
  A: Allow about 3 to 4 months for H4 approval. If H1B is filed through premium processing, and H4 is ...
Marriage based Green card on VWP7/11/2011
  Q: I am a US citizen living in Australia since 2003 with my husband. We got married in India in 2002 – ...
  A: An open intention to immigrate to the U.S. is not consistent with entry into the U.S. on the visa ...
Regarding I 130 Immigration issue7/10/2011
  Q: i am from pakistan working in gulf, i have a valid b1 visa for usa till feb 2015.my sister (us ...
  A: It typically takes about 10 years for the priority date to be current in the F4 category: ...
H1B Transfer and Extension at same time7/10/2011
  Q: I am currently working with Company A and my H1b petition is going to expire in Sept 2011. Recently ...
  A: There is no limit to the number of companies that can file an H1B petition for you. You can work for ...
L1 to H1B Transfer7/8/2011
  Q: I am Currently in US on L1 with Co. A. First time to US. No previous H1. Co. B wants to file my H1 ...
  A: If you depart the U.S. when a change of status application is pending with the USCIS, the petition ...
L1 to H1B Transfer7/7/2011
  Q: I am Currently in US on L1 with Co. A. First time to US. No previous H1. Co. B wants to file my H1 ...
  A: When someone is violating their visa status, they can be removed from the U.S. if they are ...
h1c visa expired, i140 approved-attending graduate school7/7/2011
  Q: My H1c visa expires on the 9th july. I have an approved i 140 with a PD of August 2009. I approached ...
  A: You will start accruing unlawful presence in the U.S. from the date that your visa (or I-94) ...
H1b visa waiting time7/7/2011
  Q: Following are the questions I have regarding waiting time for H1B visa. Background:I am working in ...
  A: Please allow about 3 to 4 months on average for a decision from the USCIS after H1B petition is ...
h1c visa expired, i140 approved-attending graduate school7/6/2011
  Q: My H1c visa expires on the 9th july. I have an approved i 140 with a PD of August 2009. I approached ...
  A: I am assuming that your I-485 (adjustment of status application) has not been filed since your ...
F1 yesterday, now H1B job, options?7/3/2011
  Q: I am Rahul from India. I am planning to pursue my Masters starting Fall 2011, in US. I have 3 years ...
  A: Your F1 status begins immediately upon landing in the U.S. If you have a preconceived plan on ...
F1 yesterday, now H1B job, options?7/3/2011
  Q: I am Rahul from India. I am planning to pursue my Masters starting Fall 2011, in US. I have 3 years ...
  A: If you enter the U.S. on F1 visa stamp, then your intention should be to study. You should attend ...
h1b/h3 visa process7/1/2011
  Q: I am Mir Akber working as a cook job training with J1 visa for 1year, at hotel Florida,USA. visa ...
  A: H1B is suitable only for jobs that require a relevant degree to perform the job, such as Food & ...
H1B and green card7/1/2011
  Q: Greetings, my question is simple, I am currently on OPT, my employer was able to sponsor me under ...
  A: Correct, your employer can sponsor you. There is no minimum amount of time that you must be in H1B ...
H1B and green card7/1/2011
  Q: Greetings, my question is simple, I am currently on OPT, my employer was able to sponsor me under ...
  A: The green card process is totally dependent upon the employer. The employer can start the process ...
h1b/h3 visa process7/1/2011
  Q: I am Mir Akber working as a cook job training with J1 visa for 1year, at hotel Florida,USA. visa ...
  A: It appears that you have the equivalent of a four-year U.S. bachelor's degree based on your 3 year ...
Renewal of green card or citizenship?7/1/2011
  Q: I am a citizen. My wife's green card (10 years) will expire in a few months. USA is home for our ...
  A: If the green card will be expiring in less than 180 days prior to filing naturalization application, ...
H1B approval and date of filing6/30/2011
  Q: my employer has filed my case for H1B in June where as my friends case is filed in April so when ...
  A: If your friend is not in the U.S., after marriage she can apply for H4 visa stamp directly at a U.S. ...
Applying for I-140/I-485 while COS from H1B to F1 pending?6/30/2011
  Q: i am currently working at a H-1 job. because i wish to start school soon and receive graduate ...
  A: The change of status to F1 application should be approved by the USCIS since an immigrant petition ...
H1B approval and date of filing6/29/2011
  Q: my employer has filed my case for H1B in June where as my friends case is filed in April so when ...
  A: It typically takes about 3 months for approval of H1B petition by the USCIS after filing. Since the ...
B1/B2 to H4 Conversion6/28/2011
  Q: I have a question regarding my wife's visa conversion from B1/B2 to H4. I am currently on my F1-OPT ...
  A: In order to avoid fraudulent entry issues in the future, I recommend waiting for at least 60 days ...
H1B-F2 visa6/26/2011
  Q: I am laid off my current job today, which is a surprise to me. My husbaand is on F1 visa. Can I ...
  A: I assume that your husband will work on H1B status on Dec. 01, 2011 since he will be maintaining F1 ...
H1B-F2 visa6/26/2011
  Q: I am laid off my current job today, which is a surprise to me. My husbaand is on F1 visa. Can I ...
  A: You will not be subject to the visa cap since you earlier held H1B status. Thus, if you find ...
H1B-F2 visa6/25/2011
  Q: I am laid off my current job today, which is a surprise to me. My husbaand is on F1 visa. Can I ...
  A: Although there is no formal grace period applicable in termination of employment in H1B status, in ...
180 day portability rule and I-1406/23/2011
  Q: is it true that there is a new rule about the 180 day portability rule in such a way that it would ...
  A: The USCIS advises that it be notified by a letter signed by the new employer indicating that it is ...
180 day portability rule and I-1406/23/2011
  Q: is it true that there is a new rule about the 180 day portability rule in such a way that it would ...
  A: The general rule remains that I-140 should be approved, and I-485 pending for at least 180 days, ...
Query:-H4 to H1 conversion6/23/2011
  Q: Please help me with the process of conversion from H4 to H1.I am on H4 right now and I am looking ...
  A: As you are likely to be subject to the visa cap, the H1B petition approval notice will have a start ...
F2 visa of wife while husband on OPT6/22/2011
  Q: I am currently working on OPT and has been working since last one year. My OPT is going to expire in ...
  A: As it can easily take 3 or 4 months for approval of an application to change status to F2, if your ...
Naturalization and public assistance6/22/2011
  Q: I am a legal permanent resident. My yearly income is way below the minimum (I am a widow). I am ...
  A: If you are purposely underreporting your income in order to minimize tax burden, then this could be ...
I-9 form Employment eligibility form6/21/2011
  Q: I have approved I-797 from my previous employer and it has got expired on june 17nth 2011. Meanwhile ...
  A: See the example below: ...
I-9 form Employment eligibility form6/21/2011
  Q: I have approved I-797 from my previous employer and it has got expired on june 17nth 2011. Meanwhile ...
  A: Please see this excerpt from: ...
I-9 form Employment eligibility form6/21/2011
  Q: I have approved I-797 from my previous employer and it has got expired on june 17nth 2011. Meanwhile ...
  A: You are able to legally be employed by the new employer, as you were maintaining H1B status through ...
Domestic Travel while I-94 extension is Pending6/20/2011
  Q: I have a question about Identity proof for Domestic Travel in US. My Visa and I-94 had expired in ...
  A: I recommend obtaining copy of the receipt notice (Form I-797) as evidence that extension of status ...
H4 and EAD and opening business6/20/2011
  Q: I am in the USA on an H4 visa. My wife is working on an H1B and has had green card approval with a ...
  A: Your and your wife's adjustment of status application (along with EAD application) can be filed only ...
F2 to H1B6/19/2011
  Q: I am currently working on F1 visa and my fiance would be coming to US on F2 this year. Can we apply ...
  A: If your wife receives a job offer in the U.S., and the employer is willing to file an H1B petition ...
visitor visa query6/19/2011
  Q: ..sir my student visa will be going to expire in July,2011 and have also done with my course. Now ...
  A: Your parents will apply directly at the nearest U.S. Consulate for B2 visa stamp: ...
Spouse of Green Card holder6/18/2011
  Q: My son is a Green card holder and he is going to marry in Feb 2012 with an Indian girl who has no ...
  A: Applying for F1 visa stamp requires an intention of completing the study program. Not having any ...
Spouse of Green Card holder6/18/2011
  Q: My son is a Green card holder and he is going to marry in Feb 2012 with an Indian girl who has no ...
  A: Student (F visa) or visitor visa (B visa) status does not allow for intention to immigrate to the ...
J1/J2 to H1B/H46/16/2011
  Q: I hold a J1 visa and planning to apply for a H1B visa next April without leaving the US, not planing ...
  A: In order to change status from J1 to H1B, you should not be subject to the 2 year home country ...
H1B Part Time6/14/2011
  Q: I was a full time employee and now I switched to a part time consultant. I made the switch about a ...
  A: An amended H1B petition should be filed as soon as possible. Alternatively (and this is the better ...
B1 I-94 but applying for extension of my H-1B6/13/2011
  Q: I travelled for first time to US in Jan 2008 on B1 and was purely for business and stayed only for ...
  A: As you are aware, you are currently in B1 status. Your employer can file for change of status from ...
L2 to H1B Change of Status6/12/2011
  Q: I entered the US on an L2 Visa in Feb 2011. In April 2011 an employer filed for H1B change of status ...
  A: The H1B petition is approvable. However, the USCIS may or may not grant extension of H1B status ...
L2 to H1B Change of Status6/12/2011
  Q: I entered the US on an L2 Visa in Feb 2011. In April 2011 an employer filed for H1B change of status ...
  A: If the H1B petition approval notice (Form I-797) indicates that you were also granted change of ...
Can I file for a H-1B now?6/10/2011
  Q: I have abt 12 years of exp, was in US for last 1 year on L1-A which is valid till 2013. About to ...
  A: An H1B petition can be filed up to 180 days before the start of the fiscal year of the government, ...
L2 visa application without social marriage6/10/2011
  Q: Me and my husband are working in the same company.I got my marriage registered on 28th of Feb 2011. ...
  A: As the marriage is not a "secret" marriage (there were important witnesses to the marriage such as ...
EB3 priority date6/8/2011
  Q: My Priority date is January 4th 2010. And I am in EB3 Hong Kong. How long do you think the waiting ...
  A: As per current visa bulletin (June, 2011): http://travel.state.gov/visa/bulletin/bulletin_1360.html ...
AR-11 application6/8/2011
  Q: My priority date is current this month. Our lawyers asked if we filed AR-11 previously when we moved ...
  A: Since I-485 receipt notice has the old address, you should call 800-375-5283 and update address. You ...
AR-11 application6/8/2011
  Q: My priority date is current this month. Our lawyers asked if we filed AR-11 previously when we moved ...
  A: You can call the USCIS at 800-375-5283 to see if AR-11 was filed, but in any event the fact that the ...
Naturalization6/7/2011
  Q: My father has had green card from the 1990s but has only resided in the USA for the past 5 or 6 ...
  A: Filing tax returns is required only if it is otherwise required by the IRS. If tax returns were ...
H1B Loss of pay6/6/2011
  Q: As a followup of the answer,I would like to know whether can I be under loss of pay for sometime, ...
  A: If your employment is terminated, there is a maximum of 10-day grace period. Thus, even if the H1B ...
H1B transfer and Loss of Pay6/6/2011
  Q: I am working for Company A and I have got good offer in Company B. My visa has been approved with ...
  A: In order to maintain H1B status, there is a maximum 10-day grace period between termination of ...
H4 Visa6/5/2011
  Q: My wife is in US with her approved H1-B visa and I am in India and working in a company of which I ...
  A: If you can show that your spouse is maintaining H1B status, then you should be issued H4 visa stamp. ...
Naturalization6/4/2011
  Q: My father has had green card from the 1990s but has only resided in the USA for the past 5 or 6 ...
  A: It should be fine, if in the five years immediately preceding the filing of the naturalization ...
U.S. residency options6/4/2011
  Q: My boyfriend has a EU passport he would like to know if he can travel to Canada and get US residency ...
  A: U.S. residency would normally be based either on family sponsorship (such as marriage to a U.S. ...
how long a USA citizen can stay out of country6/4/2011
  Q: I am a naturalized USA citizen (became citizen in 2010 January). Since June 2010, I am out of USA on ...
  A: There is no action required. You can remain an unlimited amount of time outside the U.S. as you are ...
required documents to support "employer and employee relationship"6/4/2011
  Q: I read that now uscis requires more documents to prove " employer and employee relationship" in H1B ...
  A: In our professional experience, unless there has been an RFE (request for evidence) issued by the ...
H1B extension and I-94 expiring6/4/2011
  Q: Ajay, Recently I went to India and I got new I-94 which is expiring on June 17nth and H-1b Visa too ...
  A: Since you are legally in the U.S. in H1B status, as long as the H1B extension is filed prior to your ...
H4 visa holders and AOS/I-765 pending: travel restrictions?6/2/2011
  Q: My spouse and I are valid H visa holders until July 2012 (I am a professor on a H1B visa, and he is ...
  A: Both you and your husband can travel and enter the U.S. on your unexpired respective H1B/H4 visa ...
I94 Expired, L-1B Extn denied, old L-1B Visa valid for another 4 months6/1/2011
  Q: I am working for a company in L-1B visa. My visa is valid till Sep 2011, my I-94 expired in May. My ...
  A: As your I-94 has already expired (and extension has been denied by the USCIS), the visa in your ...
H1B transfer, I-140 approved6/1/2011
  Q: Ajay, I got lay off on 5/31/2011. My 6th year of H1B is going to finish on 2/24/2012. My I-94 have ...
  A: As it appears that the company which sponsored you for I-140 is going to revoke its I-140 petition ...
L1B Validity if not used for 16 months5/28/2011
  Q: I have got L1B(blanket) valid for next 2 years however the same is not used for 16 months since it ...
  A: It is still valid to enter the U.S. In order to avoid difficulties at the port-of-entry, however, it ...
I94 Expired, L-1B Extn denied, old L-1B Visa valid for another 4 months5/28/2011
  Q: I am working for a company in L-1B visa. My visa is valid till Sep 2011, my I-94 expired in May. My ...
  A: If your I-94 has already expired, then you must depart the U.S. upon learning of the denial of L1B ...
Fiance or Spouse Visa5/27/2011
  Q: Which petition would be faster? Fiance or Spouse petition? My fiance and I have been together for 3 ...
  A: The spousal petition is now about as fast as the K3 petition process. Thus, the I-130 filing by ...
H1b visa approved after L1b blanket denied?5/27/2011
  Q: Sir, I came to India on 1st feb 2011 and attended went for visa extension stamping on feb 22, ...
  A: L1B is independent of H1B. Therefore, as long as your information stated on the H1B petition does ...
Green card category information5/26/2011
  Q: I have a total of 7 years of experience in Engineering. I am currently on L1-B visa in US since 3 ...
  A: Please note that you would be totally dependent upon the employer to start the green card process ...
H1B reactivation5/26/2011
  Q: I got H1B visa in 2008 with validity from Oct 2008 till Sept 2011. For some personal reason i didn't ...
  A: The USCIS will make no distinction between the original employer filing and a different employer ...
My children in F2 visa status traveling5/26/2011
  Q: We came under a tourist visa and here I decided to change my status to be able to study. I actually ...
  A: The Consulate normally will not issue a dependent visa stamp (e.g., F2 visa stamp) to a family ...
F1 employment & marriage to U.S. citizen5/25/2011
  Q: I have a F1 visa and just graduated and supposed to be getting my OPT card next month. my girlfriend ...
  A: You will receive an EAD (employment authorization document) based on marriage to a U.S. citizen ...
US Visa5/25/2011
  Q: I'm currently working with a software major. My husband is currently onsite in the US and I was ...
  A: Yes, you can obtain L2 visa stamp at a U.S. Consulate, but the Consulate may then cancel your ...
Priority Date Current5/23/2011
  Q: I just like to ask if something is wrong with my pending application. Here are the details: Category ...
  A: Your I-485 will be approved very soon. It typically takes between 4 and 10 months for I-485 to be ...
H4 - H1B - H45/23/2011
  Q: In Jan 2009 I entered in USA on H4 visa. In April 2009 filed for H1B through employer A. Since H4 ...
  A: A new H1B petition must be filed by the employer requesting change of status from H4 to H1B; an ...
H4 - H1B - H45/23/2011
  Q: In Jan 2009 I entered in USA on H4 visa. In April 2009 filed for H1B through employer A. Since H4 ...
  A: You will not be subject to the visa cap when the employer files an H1B petition for you. Thus, the ...
H4 - H1B - H45/23/2011
  Q: In Jan 2009 I entered in USA on H4 visa. In April 2009 filed for H1B through employer A. Since H4 ...
  A: As the latest action by USCIS is change of status to H4, you are currently in H4 status, which does ...
H1B reactivation5/21/2011
  Q: I got H1B visa in 2008 with validity from Oct 2008 till Sept 2011. For some personal reason i didn't ...
  A: As you are not currently in H1B status, you should wait until H1B petition granting you change of ...
L1B resignation, employer liability re. return travel5/20/2011
  Q: I am currently in USA working for an IT organisation. I have a L1B visa. To pursue other ...
  A: As you are voluntarily resigning from the L1B employer, the employer is not responsible for return ...
I-140 Priority Date Porting5/20/2011
  Q: I have an approved I-140 from my old company with PD 2004. I left them in 2007 and joined my new ...
  A: You should be able to port the earlier priority date based stated on I-140 approval notice even if ...
H1B stamping in another country5/20/2011
  Q: I have a approved petition. Its start date is 13-April-2011. It seems I should got for stamping ...
  A: As you are currently residing in Sweden, you can apply for an H1B visa stamp at a U.S. Consulate in ...
Travel when Priority Date is current5/19/2011
  Q: My priority date becomes current on June 1st. I have travel plans set for the the end of the year ...
  A: The purpose of advance parole document is to prevent I-485 denial due to abandonment, so there is no ...
Travel Concern while on F15/19/2011
  Q: I have H1 B visa, my wife has a F1 visa. My EB-2 I-140 has been approved, and recently I also ...
  A: I agree with your current attorney. As F visa status does not allow for intention to immigrate to ...
Travel when Priority Date is current5/18/2011
  Q: My priority date becomes current on June 1st. I have travel plans set for the the end of the year ...
  A: Your AP document should be used when boarding a flight back to the United States. Upon arrival at ...
MOTHERS VISA AND H4 TO STUDENT VISA5/17/2011
  Q: please i want to ask the best way to apply for my mother to come and help with her first grand ...
  A: H4 status is not applicable to parents. Thus, your mother will need to apply for visitor visa (B2) ...
H4 to F1 from Canada5/16/2011
  Q: I have just received my H4 status approval 4 days back. I need to join a university on 1st June and ...
  A: You can apply for F1 visa stamp in Canada. However, if the U.S. Consulate in Canada where you apply ...
Pregnant UK citizen by my US boyfriend5/15/2011
  Q: I'm wondering if you could give me some answers. I'm from the UK and I've been with my US boyfriend ...
  A: The K1 visa should be issued, as you and your boyfriend have every intention of marrying each other ...
Form I-8645/15/2011
  Q: I live in New York and have a wonderful nanny who is from Jamaica. She is currently in the process ...
  A: If you sign the Affidavit of Support, if the immigrant sponsored in this affidavit does receive one ...
H1B stamping in another country5/14/2011
  Q: I have a approved petition. Its start date is 13-April-2011. It seems I should got for stamping ...
  A: You must be residing in Sweden in order to apply at a U.S. Consulate in Sweden for H1B visa stamp. ...
EB2 dependent application5/12/2011
  Q: I am currenly on a H1, my husband is on an EAD, with the June bulletin my husband's application date ...
  A: Yes, you can leave your H1B employer after issuance of I-485 receipt notice. You would be able to ...
EB2 dependent application5/12/2011
  Q: I am currenly on a H1, my husband is on an EAD, with the June bulletin my husband's application date ...
  A: You can file your adjustment of status application (also known as AOS, or I-485 application) in ...
l1 to f2 change of status5/11/2011
  Q: I am planning to convert from L1 to F2 visa( my wife is on f1). I checked online and it says that ...
  A: It typically takes close to 3 months for approval of application granting change of status. When ...
H1B Marriage5/11/2011
  Q: I am a Canadian citizen currently living and working in teh U.S. on a TN Visa which has been ...
  A: After marriage, your wife can change to H4 status, as the dependent of an H1B visa status holder. ...
DS160 Form Help5/10/2011
  Q: My L1 Blanket visa was not clearly approvable in feb 2011. The VO given me 221(g) white form in ...
  A: You can answer "no" since you were not actually refused a visa. You should clearly disclose the ...
H1B to Green Card via Marriage5/10/2011
  Q: First off, thank you very much for assisting me with this query. I am getting married to my fiance ...
  A: After marriage, all sponsorship paperwork should be filed concurrently with the USCIS: I-130, I-485, ...
F1 & F2 to H45/9/2011
  Q: how can we change our F1 and F2 visas to H4? Do we need to hire a lawyer or we can just directly go ...
  A: H4 status is granted to a dependent (spouse, and/or children under 21) of the H1B principal ...
Overstay outside US On Green Card5/9/2011
  Q: Arora, My Parents have a Green Card since 2001 and is expiring 10/2011. They were in & out until ...
  A: Unfortunately, your parents have automatically abandoned their lawful permanent resident status by ...
Marrying ex-wife5/7/2011
  Q: I became a USC through marriage and is now divorced and I want to marry my ex-wife (prior to my ...
  A: If you divorce and remarry within 5 years of obtaining resident status on the basis of marriage to a ...
I-130 and Consular Processing?5/5/2011
  Q: My wife and I were married a little over a month after she entered on a visitor visa. She needs to ...
  A: If the Consulate refuses to issue an immigrant visa, there is less recourse for appeal. Therefore, ...
Perm Priority Date5/3/2011
  Q: I have a question regarding my PERM. My PERM was filed on Oct 2008 and we still do not have an ...
  A: Processing times are here and can be tracked by clicking on "Perm Processing Times" tab: ...
Consular process for marriage to U.S. citizen5/2/2011
  Q: I am mexican woman and got married with a US citizen in US in 2010 when I was visiting him (we had a ...
  A: It is a longer process at the Consulate, but it is actually somewhat less expensive. However, you ...
J1 visa holder marring USC5/2/2011
  Q: I am a J1 visa holder doing my medical residency training and subject to the 2 year home residence ...
  A: As J visa status does not allow for intention to immigrate to the U.S., the USCIS is unlikely to ...
H1b transfer from Non profit to profit5/1/2011
  Q: I have a non profit H1b(still working for the university). I need to take a transfer to a profit ...
  A: If you will continue to work for both the non-profit as well as for the for-profit company ...
I 485 pending PD 02 2004 EB34/30/2011
  Q: I got I140 approved in 2008 I485 pending pd is 02 2004 EB3. My daughter is 29yrs US citizen can she ...
  A: Yes, your daughter can file I-130 petition for you. As parents of U.S. citizens are considered ...
L2 Visa Application4/29/2011
  Q: Arora, I am a fellow Nittany Lion and have a question concerning my/future spouse's visa situation. ...
  A: Any additional documents with either or both of your names to the same address is helpful in showing ...
Consular process for marriage to U.S. citizen4/29/2011
  Q: I am mexican woman and got married with a US citizen in US in 2010 when I was visiting him (we had a ...
  A: Since you are already marrried to a U.S. citizen, and seem to have a clearly formed intent at time ...
Green Card Lottery4/29/2011
  Q: How do I apply for Green Card lottery? there are so many spammers out there and I want to be sure I ...
  A: The entry registration period for DV-2012 is now closed. The online registration for DV-2012 began ...
H1B reactivation4/28/2011
  Q: I got H1B visa in 2008 with validity from Oct 2008 till Sept 2011. For some personal reason i didn't ...
  A: In order to activate your H1B status (through the original H1B employer), you have two choices: ...
Perm Priority Date4/28/2011
  Q: I have a question regarding my PERM. My PERM was filed on Oct 2008 and we still do not have an ...
  A: Unless there has been an audit of the PERM application, it should have been certified (or denied) at ...
H1B transfer4/27/2011
  Q: I have my H1 filed with current employer and the status is Initial review since. I have got ...
  A: Multiple companies can file an H1B petition for you. Your current employer will not be aware of ...
L2 Visa Application4/27/2011
  Q: Arora, I am a fellow Nittany Lion and have a question concerning my/future spouse's visa situation. ...
  A: As appointment for visa stamping of spouse can take place only after marriage, and as your objective ...
L1B rejected 221(g), Not Clearly Approvable4/26/2011
  Q: L1B got rejected with 221(g), white feedback form and comments Not Clearly approvable Hello Sir, I ...
  A: I recommend working for at least one year on a proprietary technology developed by the company ...
B1/B2 to H4 visa4/26/2011
  Q: I currently have an H1B visa valid until September 2012. My fiance just arrived here in the US last ...
  A: There will be no presumption of fraudulent entry to the U.S. if you and your fiance wait at least 60 ...
Re-scheduling AOS interview4/26/2011
  Q: I have received a notice for my adjustment of status interview. I got married to a USC and hence I ...
  A: The interview notice should provide instructions for adjourning the interview, such as calling the ...
B2 TO H1B4/25/2011
  Q: I am an EU citizen with 10 year multiple entry b1/b2 visa who entered the US on B2 status valid for ...
  A: It is generally OK to file change of status application 60 days or more after entry to the U.S. ...
EB2 - spouse change of status4/25/2011
  Q: I have few queries regarding EB-2 category application by Indian citizens. [A] My husband is on H1B ...
  A: H visa status allows intention to immigrate to the U.S. even though it is a nonimmigrant visa ...
J1 vs. H1 Visa4/25/2011
  Q: I have received an offer from two different states if the US. Unfortunately, they are offering two ...
  A: All else being equal, H1B is preferred over J1. H1B status can be extended as needed for 6 years ...
GC application query4/23/2011
  Q: Ajay Arora, I have a question regarding my green card application. I have done my Masters in US and ...
  A: It can take 5 or 6 months to prepare PERM application (also known as "labor certification") before ...
EB2 - spouse change of status4/21/2011
  Q: I have few queries regarding EB-2 category application by Indian citizens. [A] My husband is on H1B ...
  A: There will be no problem changing status from F1 to H1B if you find an employer willing to file an ...
I20 and Sponsor4/20/2011
  Q: I am currently studying on an H4 visa. I am in talks with my professor for assistantship and might ...
  A: If I-20 is issued and you have intention of being a student, you should not apply for H4 visa stamp ...
F1 visa and I-130 Petition4/20/2011
  Q: i came in the us in 2005 on a f1 visa. prior to my arrival in the us my American citizen had filed ...
  A: The I-130 petition should still be approved in the 4th family preference category when the priority ...
H1B transfer4/20/2011
  Q: I worked for a non-profit organization from Jan 2009 to Nov 2010. I got to know I would be laid off ...
  A: The worst case scenario is that the H1B petition is approved, but extension of H1B status is not ...
Marriage with a U.S citizen4/19/2011
  Q: Ajay K. Arora, I have a sister who is studying in the States under the F-1 visa, which is expiring ...
  A: Upon marriage, all sponsorship paperwork is filed concurrently with the USCIS: ...
I-130 form within the U.S. or from Canada?4/16/2011
  Q: I am a US citizen living in Canada with my Canadian wife. We own property in Florida and wish to ...
  A: It is possible but unlikely that the I-130 will be approved within 6 months. Also note that I-485 ...
I-130 form within the U.S. or from Canada?4/16/2011
  Q: I am a US citizen living in Canada with my Canadian wife. We own property in Florida and wish to ...
  A: Your wife, as a Canadian citizen, can enter the U.S. without any visa. However, she cannot have an ...
H1B - 2 RFEs4/16/2011
  Q: Completed 6 yrs H1b, I-140 approved, I-94 expired in march. Applied for extension with current ...
  A: You are required to discontinue employment with the client if the current employer H1B petition is ...
Spousal sponsorship based on marriage4/15/2011
  Q: I have lived in US now for almost 10 years, my last entry was on May 1998 with a turist visa, ...
  A: In order to be sponsored by your husband and adjust status in the U.S., you must be able to provide ...
H1B - 2 RFEs4/15/2011
  Q: Completed 6 yrs H1b, I-140 approved, I-94 expired in march. Applied for extension with current ...
  A: You can legally work for the client based on its filing of H1B petition. However, the USCIS will not ...
Regarding GC process4/15/2011
  Q: Iam on H1B visa which has validity till 18-Feb-2012 (this is 6th year completion). below are some ...
  A: You must be offered the prevailing wage as per ...
adjustment of status in F3 category4/15/2011
  Q: My parents are US citizens in California,they are willing to sponsor me and my husband and provide ...
  A: You will fall in the 3rd family preference category (married child sponsored by U.S. citizen ...
Automatic Revalidation of H1B visa4/14/2011
  Q: My h1b visa got expired in July 2010 and the I-94 given at Port of Entry is expired. My petition ...
  A: Based on the facts in your email, it is OK to travel to Canada for 30 days or less and enter the ...
Tourist visa and I-130 filed4/14/2011
  Q: Refused visa once on basis of Spouse being a green card holder. I-130 just approved. First Marriage ...
  A: As visitor visa category does not allow for intention to immigrate to the U.S., the Consulate is ...
Application for H4 Visa Late?4/14/2011
  Q: My husband has been working in the US under an H-1B visa for about a month already. He left me (his ...
  A: You can apply for H4 visa stamp from the U.S. Consulate anytime prior to expiration of the validity ...
H4 to F14/13/2011
  Q: . I am on H4 visa and have been admitted for a masters program. My husbands I 40 has been approved ...
  A: If you answer "yes" the I-539 will almost surely be denied. If you answer "no" (on the basis that ...
H4 to F14/13/2011
  Q: . I am on H4 visa and have been admitted for a masters program. My husbands I 40 has been approved ...
  A: The USCIS is unlikely to approve change of status to F1 application as you have an intention to ...
L2 and EAD4/13/2011
  Q: From your answer I have a question. If you can help me out with this one as well. My company ...
  A: Filing for EAD immediately after entry on L2 visa does not constitute fraudulent entry. Filing for ...
I485 interview and no response4/12/2011
  Q: how are you? How long does it usually take to get the result after the interview? It has been almost ...
  A: The priority date must be current in the month when I-485 will be approved. The fact that it was ...
Relocation while H1B extension filed4/12/2011
  Q: My H1B extension was filed for city C1 and client CL1 in last week of Feb. However after filing for ...
  A: There is no particular benefit to upgrading to premium, as you are able to be legally employed based ...
Applying for L2 and EAD4/12/2011
  Q: My husband is in US on L1B VISA. My company also applied L1B but VO marked my documents "Not Clearly ...
  A: As criteria for issuance of L2 visa stamp is that your spouse has been issued L1 visa status, the ...
h4 visa4/11/2011
  Q: my mom is working in US and we will be applying for an h4 visa i know that we need pictures of my ...
  A: As there is an adequate explanation (flood damage), do not worry about the absence of wedding ...
H1B transfer - RFE4/11/2011
  Q: First I would like to thanks this site for giving opportunity to post questions. Coming to ...
  A: Yes, Co. C can file H1B petition for you. However, the USCIS will not both approve Co. C's H1B ...
H1B transfer, RFE & 6 year limit4/9/2011
  Q: I am currently working in a university A and have received an offer from a hospital B. Hospital B ...
  A: In case I-140 is not approved by the time of deadline to respond to RFE, I recommend that you ...
LCA Query4/8/2011
  Q: Ajay K. Arora, I had a question regarding an LCA query and would appreciate any help. My LCA has ...
  A: An LCA can be valid for up to 3 years, but you cannot be employed beyond expiration date on H1B ...
H1B cap after 10 years in E status?4/8/2011
  Q: I first obtained H1B status in 1998 and renewed it in 2001. A few months into my second H1B period ...
  A: I stand by my initial answer, but what complicates your situation is that you were never absent from ...
H1B cap after 10 years in E status?4/8/2011
  Q: I first obtained H1B status in 1998 and renewed it in 2001. A few months into my second H1B period ...
  A: As your H1B status expired more than 6 years ago, you will be subject to the visa cap. Thus, a ...
H1B Business Analyst category4/8/2011
  Q: If my employer files a H1B visa for me in the of Business Analyst category will I be able to take up ...
  A: H1B status is employer specific, meaning that you can be employed by an an employer only if it ...
L2 Visa applicant present employment4/7/2011
  Q: My husband is having L1 visa and currently in US.I'm planning to apply for L2, right now I am ...
  A: As of the date that the DS-160 is being completed, you are employed, so you should provide the ...
L2 Visa applicant present employment4/7/2011
  Q: My husband is having L1 visa and currently in US.I'm planning to apply for L2, right now I am ...
  A: You are not required to resign from your current employer. Issuance of L2 visa stamp by the U.S. ...
green card status for spouse4/5/2011
  Q: I have few questions that hopefully you can assist me with. Allow me to extend my thanks in advance. ...
  A: Based on your marriage, you are automatically included in your husband's employer sponsorship case. ...
L1 Status after marrying US Citizen4/4/2011
  Q: Good morning Ajay, I am a L1 Blanket Visa holder with Valid Visa till Aug 2012. I am here for my ...
  A: Upon marriage to a U.S. citizen, you can maintain underlying L1 visa status while the marriage ...
H1b Cap4/3/2011
  Q: Greetings, I head the H1b cap opened a few days ago. However my company said they won't be able to ...
  A: Your company can file an H1B petition now. However, the requested start date noted on the H1B ...
OPT/H1B4/3/2011
  Q: Greetings, I got a job that want me to start on June 1st; I already applied for OPT and waiting ...
  A: I recommend that the employer file an H1B petition for you on a timely basis, so that your H1B ...
Visitor visa after I-130 filing4/2/2011
  Q: I am a US Citizen and already filed I-130 for my brothers and Sisters. I have received the notice ...
  A: Unfortunately, the visitor visa category (B1 or B2 visa) does not allow for intention to immigrate ...
Relocation while H1B extension filed4/1/2011
  Q: My H1B extension was filed for city C1 and client CL1 in last week of Feb. However after filing for ...
  A: If there is an RFE, your employer should be ready to submit response to the RFE by attaching ...
H1B visa and credentials evaluation3/30/2011
  Q: I am about to apply for H1 visa and one of my fried told me to get my degrees verified by a company ...
  A: You can do a search engine query for companies which provide credentials evaluation equating a ...
Canadian PR Cardholder & H1B Visa3/30/2011
  Q: If a person working in USA on H1B gets Canadian PR Card, can he continue to work on H1B status or it ...
  A: Yes, you can continue to work on H1B status. There is no T1 status for employment in the U.S. You ...
reentry visa3/29/2011
  Q: My husband has a valid green card to 2012 , he left USA eight years ago to Iraq , he didn't apply ...
  A: Your husband has abandoned his lawful permanent resident status by being outside of the U.S. for ...
Moving to home country3/29/2011
  Q: Mr. Arora, I'm currently working on an H1-B visa and have a couple of years to go. If I wish to go ...
  A: There is no problem in departing the U.S. You should turn in your I-94 to the airline when departing ...
student visa stamping with existing B1/B2 3/28/2011
  Q: when both parents are green card holders and only sister is a citizen, if the brother having B1/B2 ...
  A: As you have visited the U.S. previously multiple times without any apparent violation of immigration ...
I485 interview and no response3/26/2011
  Q: how are you? How long does it usually take to get the result after the interview? It has been almost ...
  A: The I-485 should have been approved by this time. It is possible that there has been visa ...
error on green card3/26/2011
  Q: Can I travel internationally if theirs an error on my green card
  A: It depends on the error...if it is a simple typographical error (such as a letter of an alphabet ...
Marriage to U.S. citizen and sponsorship3/25/2011
  Q: I came to the US in 2009 on F1 visa, I did well in my first semester and I was on the deans list. I ...
  A: There is no specific time frame to file AOS. However, it can complicate matters if you happen to get ...
Marriage to U.S. citizen and sponsorship3/25/2011
  Q: I came to the US in 2009 on F1 visa, I did well in my first semester and I was on the deans list. I ...
  A: Assuming that your wife divorced the earlier spouse before she married you, there should be no ...
Change of Status from F-1 to H-13/25/2011
  Q: I came to U.S on L-1 on Feb 2005 and then converted to H-1 on Dec 2007 and the total six years CAP ...
  A: You are not eligible for extensions beyond six years, as PERM denial (even if subsequently appealed) ...
Time on H1B1 count toward H1B six year limit?3/25/2011
  Q: I am currently on the regular H1B visa which has a six year limit. This is my 5th year of working in ...
  A: As you must be able to demonstrate that you do not intend to reside or work permanently in the U.S., ...
H1 Bridge transfer case3/24/2011
  Q: Completed 6 yrs of H1B on 21st March 2011. I-140 approved. Had filed for extension with current ...
  A: Client company can file H1B petition requesting extension of H1B status, and you can be on the ...
Time on H1B1 count toward H1B six year limit?3/24/2011
  Q: I am currently on the regular H1B visa which has a six year limit. This is my 5th year of working in ...
  A: Unfortunately, any time spent in H1B1 or H1B visa classification counts towards the 6 year aggregate ...
L1B and green card3/23/2011
  Q: my husband is travelling to us frequently on l1b visa. currently he is in india. the visa will ...
  A: As L visa status allows for intention to immigrate to the U.S., the company can start the green card ...
H4 for my spouse3/21/2011
  Q: Me and my wife will be going for visa interview soon, my wife is still working in India and i have ...
  A: A letter of the type mentioned in your email may be helpful if an application is made for a visitor ...
L2 visa EAD3/21/2011
  Q: I understand that need to apply for EAD to start working on L2 visa. I am L1A visa holder and my ...
  A: Yes, an applicant can depart the U.S. after filing EAD application, and the EAD application should ...
H4 for my spouse3/21/2011
  Q: Me and my wife will be going for visa interview soon, my wife is still working in India and i have ...
  A: Issuance of H4 visa stamp by a U.S. Consulate allows for travel to the U.S. by the dependent H1B ...
Starting LLC/LLP or company on H1B3/20/2011
  Q: If an individual came to the US on an H4 visa. Can an individual change from H4 visa to H1B visa? ...
  A: You can be a passive investor in a company, but being actively involved in day to day management of ...
L2 visa EAD3/18/2011
  Q: I understand that need to apply for EAD to start working on L2 visa. I am L1A visa holder and my ...
  A: L2 application must be signed by your husband and can only be filed when the applicant is physically ...
H1B premium processing3/17/2011
  Q: US company A is ready to apply my H1B premium processing in April 2011 for the year 2012. With H1B ...
  A: I am assuming that you are not currently in H1B status. As you are subject to the visa cap, your ...
h1b to niw petition to J13/16/2011
  Q: Question is still complex? My friend is on H1b visa 4th year. He has applied for NIW EB2 for ...
  A: As the J visa category (along with B visitor and F student) visa categories does not allow for ...
L1- H1 COS Denial3/15/2011
  Q: My L1-H1 COS has been denied. I am still working for my L1 employer and have my L1 visa valid until ...
  A: As you and your family are maintaining underlying L1/L2 visa status, there is no problem with L1/L2 ...
H1B Approval notice withdrawn before change of status date. Is it cap counted?3/15/2011
  Q: I was on a F1 when my H1 approval notice came through. Was laid off before effective change of ...
  A: As the petition was revoked prior to effective approval date, you will be subject to the visa cap ...
I-130 and priority dates3/15/2011
  Q: well, assume my priority date is 10 october 2010 and when i check the USCIS visa bulletin and by the ...
  A: The date stated on the state department visa bulletin ...
H4 Visa3/14/2011
  Q: I am currently on L1B visa with my employer and my wife's employer is processing her H1-B visa as ...
  A: When the U.S. Consulate issues you H4 visa stamp in your passport, the Consulate will likely cancel ...
Time in H1B1 visa count towards 6 years on H1B?3/14/2011
  Q: I am a Singaporean citizen. In my first 3 years on my first job, I was under the H1-B1 visa for ...
  A: You will be subject to aggregate limit of six years. Thus, when changing status to H1B, the time ...
H4 Visa3/14/2011
  Q: I am currently on L1B visa with my employer and my wife's employer is processing her H1-B visa as ...
  A: As long as you have maintained your L1B status (by continuing to be employed by your L1B employer, ...
PERM Employment Issue3/14/2011
  Q: I work as a Computer Science Instructor at a public, magnet, math/sci school in Virginia. My PERM(MS ...
  A: Your employer is misinformed, as the relevant time period is six months within the filing of PERM. ...
H4-H1-H4-H13/14/2011
  Q: I was on H4 and my H1B got approved in oct 2007 .After 9months i found project and worked for ...
  A: You will not be required to provide paystubs from the period when you were in H1B visa status. The ...
green card W2 or 10993/13/2011
  Q: I JUST GOT MY PERMANENT RESIDENT CARD ( EMPLOYMENT BASED ). I NEVER WORKED FOR MY SPONSOR BEFORE ...
  A: The employer sponsorship process requires an intention of full-time, permanent employment with the ...
H4-H1-H4-H13/13/2011
  Q: I was on H4 and my H1B got approved in oct 2007 .After 9months i found project and worked for ...
  A: As you are currently on H4 status, when a company files an H1B petition for you requesting change of ...
f4 petition how to reopen3/13/2011
  Q: In yr. 2006 my family got f4 petition approved and i send my wife and chldren to us after getting ...
  A: As you did not obtain an immigrant visa in 2006, that particular immigrant petition has been ...
L1A and Green card3/11/2011
  Q: I have L1A visa valid till 2014 and I am coming to US next month. I would like to know when can my ...
  A: As long as the U.S. company has been doing business for at least one year, an immigrant petition ...
Hold both H1B and L1 together?3/10/2011
  Q: I was on L2 spouse visa. My husband's L1 visa expires on May and a new H1B visa got filed and ...
  A: In order to change from L1 to H1B in the future based on his current H1B approval notice, he will ...
Hold both H1B and L1 together?3/10/2011
  Q: I was on L2 spouse visa. My husband's L1 visa expires on May and a new H1B visa got filed and ...
  A: An individual can hold only one status at a time in the U.S. Since it appears that your husband's ...
Stay in US before getting H1B approved?3/9/2011
  Q: I'm currently on L2 dependent visa on my husband's L1A. I have an EAD and recently I got a job here ...
  A: Since your employer is exempt from the visa cap, it can file H1B petition anytime. You are not ...
Stay in US before getting H1B approved?3/9/2011
  Q: I'm currently on L2 dependent visa on my husband's L1A. I have an EAD and recently I got a job here ...
  A: You can stay in L2 visa status in the U.S. even if your husband is not physically present as long as ...
i-485 adding spouse3/9/2011
  Q: I have applied for I-485 in EB2 category. If I get married before I-485 is approved can I add my ...
  A: Yes, if you marry prior to your I-485 approval your spouse will be included in your green card ...
Green Card Filing Question3/8/2011
  Q: I am on my 6th year of H1 residing in US. My Visa will expire in Sept 2011. Can i apply for my Green ...
  A: In order to extend H1B status beyond six years, your employer must start the green card process ...
Reg L1-H1B COS3/7/2011
  Q: I am currently on L1 in USA through an X employer and I have an H1B approval which was applied in ...
  A: If H1B petition is approved granting you change of status, you will automatically be in H1B status ...
L2 and EAD and H1B3/7/2011
  Q: I am working on L1-B visa in U.S for the past 18 months. I got maried recently and I am trying to ...
  A: EAD application will be filed with the USCIS by your wife when she is in the U.S. There is no ...
H1B to green card via marriage3/6/2011
  Q: My company is filing for my H1B this year and it will come into effect on Oct 1, 2011. But I if I ...
  A: Sponsorship through marriage to a U.S. citizen can be done anytime, and will not interfere with H1B ...
removal from the U.S.3/6/2011
  Q: I came in US in 2002 on K-1 visa and my fiance changed her mind. I overstayed illegally in US and ...
  A: Entry on K1 visa and failure to marry the U.S. citizen within 90 days of entry to the U.S. fiance ...
Can H1B be sponserd by Non profit org ?3/4/2011
  Q: I came to US with H4 visa . I would like to file an H1b to pursue my career. Am volunteering as web ...
  A: Your employer has to file an H1B petition with the USCIS requesting change of your status from H4 to ...
Visit from U.S to India with H1B3/4/2011
  Q: I am in US on H4. Suppose a company files H1B visa for me for 2011. As per the rules I will be ...
  A: If you depart the U.S. after H1B petition is approved by the USCIS, but prior to H1B taking effect ...
Green Card Options3/2/2011
  Q: I and my wife are Green Card holders for 2 years. My son (4 years old) in a US citizen. I have to ...
  A: If you want to maintain your green card, I recommend that you lease or have a mortgage on a home in ...
H4 Change Of Status3/1/2011
  Q: Sir, I came US (from India) in Feb-2009 in L1 visa (I-94 valid date is Nov-2011). My wife and kids ...
  A: As H4 application cannot be filed through premium processing (unless accompanied by H1B petition ...
Apply for L2 visa while 221(g) pending for H1B stamp?3/1/2011
  Q: I had applied for H1-B visa and was given a 221(g) blue form with the comment "Wait for decision ...
  A: I recommend contacting the Consulate to request withdrawal of the application for H1B visa stamping ...
H1B and not joining employer3/1/2011
  Q: I am working for Company A in India, who filed my H1-B visa and it has been approved and stamped ...
  A: Co. B can file H1B petition for you. Upon approval by the USCIS, you should apply for new H1B visa ...
H1B and not joining employer2/28/2011
  Q: I am working for Company A in India, who filed my H1-B visa and it has been approved and stamped ...
  A: You cannot travel to the U.S. on your H1B visa stamp unless the purpose of your entry will be ...
L1B rejected with 221(g), feedback form and comments Not Clearly approvable2/27/2011
  Q: L1B got rejected with 221(g), white feedback form and comments Not Clearly approvable Hello Sir, I ...
  A: There have been many L1B denials of visa stamping at U.S. Consulates, as the L visa category is not ...
H1-B Wage Level and RFE2/25/2011
  Q: I have been working under H1-B with my current employer since 2003 and my job description has not ...
  A: H1B reflects your current job, and PERM is permanent, full-time employment in the future. You are ...
Impact of relocation on GC process2/25/2011
  Q: I am working as Full Time Employee on H1. I also have a GC process and PERM and 140 have been ...
  A: Since the new location of your worksite is within the MSA, a new LCA is not required to be filed ...
H1B while Reinstating F12/24/2011
  Q: I have to apply for Reinstatment of my student F 1 visa because my school shut down...But at the ...
  A: For reinstatement, please see the DSO (also known as international student advisor) at your ...
K3 PROCESSING TIME2/24/2011
  Q: I AM TOLD THAT K3 IS TALKING AS LONG, AND MAY BE LONGER THAN I130 FOR MY WIFE, JUST GOT MY I130 ...
  A: If the K3 process is started with the USCIS but both I-129F and I-130 are approved, the National ...
Academic H1B - Industry H1B Transfer2/23/2011
  Q: I am currently holding a H1B from an academic institution and have been offered a position in ...
  A: Yes, your assumptions are correct. Since your current H1B was filed by a visa cap-exempt ...
Applying for H1B while in India2/23/2011
  Q: My L1B visa expired on Aug 18th 2010, and i'm in India right now. Now, I wish to apply for H1b on ...
  A: There is no time restriction in applying for visa stamping. Of course, if you decide to apply for ...
name change2/23/2011
  Q: I married a canadian citizen who change her last name to mine and she is back waiting for ...
  A: The marriage certificate (which normally states both the maiden name and the new surname) in ...
245i - Marriage to US Citizen2/22/2011
  Q: I entered this country when I was 11 with a tourist visa in 1993. However, my passport was then lost ...
  A: As you are grandfathered under sec. 245(i), it is OK if you cannot prove legal entry to the U.S. ...
Applying for H1B while in India2/22/2011
  Q: My L1B visa expired on Aug 18th 2010, and i'm in India right now. Now, I wish to apply for H1b on ...
  A: The probability of H1B petition approval by USCIS is not based on whether the beneficiary is ...
L1 to H12/19/2011
  Q: I had applied for H1 in 2007 through employer A, when I was in India and had got an approved ...
  A: In our experience if the new H1B employer attaches copy of previous H1B approval notice (even though ...
L1 to H12/19/2011
  Q: I had applied for H1 in 2007 through employer A, when I was in India and had got an approved ...
  A: As you were never in H1B status, you will be subject to the visa cap when Employer B files an H1B ...
Visa and EAD renewal2/18/2011
  Q: I am currently on a L2 visa and I have an EAD due to which I am currently working as a permanent ...
  A: The I-539 will have a different receipt number than the I-129 as it is technically a different ...
H1 and F1 related2/18/2011
  Q: My name is Preeti and my husband is on H1B in USA working for a consulting firm. His company has ...
  A: I assume that your husband's I-140 has been approved but his I-485 has not yet been filed. Thus, it ...
Visa and EAD renewal2/18/2011
  Q: I am currently on a L2 visa and I have an EAD due to which I am currently working as a permanent ...
  A: The I-539 receipt notice already submitted with the EAD application should be adequate for EAD ...
H1 and F1 related2/18/2011
  Q: My name is Preeti and my husband is on H1B in USA working for a consulting firm. His company has ...
  A: The USCIS will not grant your husband change of status as F visa status is not compatible with ...
F2 To H1B : US Visa Change Process2/17/2011
  Q: My wife is currently on a dependent US visa (F2), and she just got a job offer from a non-profit ...
  A: Your wife is dependent upon her employer filing an H1B petition with the USCIS. If the organization ...
H4 to H1B2/17/2011
  Q: If an individual came to the US on an H4 visa. Can an individual change from H4 visa to H1B visa? ...
  A: There is no problem in changing from H4 to H1B within the U.S. We recommend waiting at least 30 to ...
Chronic & disabling health issues and family sponsorship2/16/2011
  Q: I am a single, middle aged woman suffering chronic medical issues which of late have become ...
  A: The answer (a very lengthy processing time in the 4th family preference category) is the same ...
H1B Extension -RFE- Can I transfer H1B2/16/2011
  Q: My H1B I-94 expired Sept-2010. Extension was applied in July 2010. Project ended Dec-2010. I ...
  A: Yes, another company can file H1B petition for you while your RFE response is pending with the ...
Blanket L1 - A kept pending2/16/2011
  Q: I attended interview for L1-A stamping on 2nd Feb 2011. My petition wsa filed under Blanket ...
  A: It appears that you will not truly a manager or executive in the U.S., and client placement in the ...
Chronic & disabling health issues and family sponsorship2/16/2011
  Q: I am a single, middle aged woman suffering chronic medical issues which of late have become ...
  A: Unfortunately, there is no hardship exception to family sponsorship in the 4th family preference ...
Real Estate - Employment Law2/14/2011
  Q: We are a Canadian Real Estate Company and we have a U.S. affiliate - which is an entire separate ...
  A: As Canadian citizens, entry can be made without a visa: ...
Marriage during OPT ( application of GC)2/14/2011
  Q: I am currently on OPT. My OPT expires on 9/20/2011. I am an Indian citizen. I am planning to marry ...
  A: Your parents can sign an affidavit and it should be notarized (signed in front of a notary public). ...
Marriage during OPT ( application of GC)2/14/2011
  Q: I am currently on OPT. My OPT expires on 9/20/2011. I am an Indian citizen. I am planning to marry ...
  A: Yes, you can continue working on OPT until you are issued EAD based on marriage sponsorship, and ...
Marriage during OPT ( application of GC)2/14/2011
  Q: I am currently on OPT. My OPT expires on 9/20/2011. I am an Indian citizen. I am planning to marry ...
  A: After marriage to a U.S. citizen, you can be sponsored anytime: www.h1b1.com/Uscitizen.htm You will ...
H1B along with F2 - Some Questions2/13/2011
  Q: I am a PhD student on F1 visa and my wife has a dependent F2 visa (valid till 2013) and has visited ...
  A: Since her F2 was not canceled by the Consulate, she can enter on F2 visa status by showing F2 visa ...
L2 visa holder travel2/12/2011
  Q: Can L2 visa holder travel to US alone for first time while L1 is already in US? What are the ...
  A: Yes, you can travel alone on unexpired L2 visa stamp in your passport to join your L1 spouse. ...
termination while on O-1 visa2/11/2011
  Q: I've been on O-1 visa (extraordinary ability in the sciences) for a short 6 months but will have my ...
  A: Yes, you can reuse copy of the same experience letters, esp. as the USCIS does not require original ...
H 4 visa2/11/2011
  Q: I have been employed in US since last 2 years. (H1 visa). I came to India and got maried in Dec. ...
  A: No, he is not required to carry copy of the receipt, but it does not hurt to carry evidence that you ...
H 4 visa2/11/2011
  Q: I have been employed in US since last 2 years. (H1 visa). I came to India and got maried in Dec. ...
  A: Yes, your husband can enter on existing H4 visa stamp as you are maintaining H1B status even though ...
H1B while overseas2/11/2011
  Q: I current work for a company in the US on a H1B visa. This visa expires in Nov 2012 (can be extended ...
  A: You can come back to the U.S. on existing H1B visa if the purpose of your entry will be to work in ...
visa waiver program2/10/2011
  Q: Kevin
  A: Entry on visa waiver program does not allow for extension of status or change of status within the ...
Re-entering the US as a permanent resident2/10/2011
  Q: Me and my fiance are currently going through the fiance visa process and I was wondering whether ...
  A: After the wedding, performed no more than 90 days after entry to the U.S. on fiance visa, the ...
F1 to GC2/9/2011
  Q: I am a student on F1 visa. I will be graduating this may. I have a full time offer from a company. ...
  A: As F1 visa status does not allow for intention to immigrate to the U.S., the recommended course of ...
H1B visa processing and travel2/9/2011
  Q: While in U.S, if a H1-B is filed for me can I visit India during the time it is getting processed?
  A: If you travel outside the U.S. while H1B petition is being adjudicated by the USCIS, the petition is ...
Can re-enter on same I-94 (L1B)2/8/2011
  Q: I am Canadian and have L1B Visa(got in 2009) to US from MNC company and my L1B is valid till Jan ...
  A: As a Canadian citizen, you should be able to enter the U.S. by showing either L1B approval notice ...
L1B Visa not refused & kept pending under 221(g)2/8/2011
  Q: My employer had applied for L1 visa under blanket petition and subsequently i appeared for Visa ...
  A: I stand by my earlier assessment, but there is no harm in the company filing L1 individual petition. ...
L1 to H1B post visa cap over situation2/6/2011
  Q: I have an interesting scenario post the date of visa filing for 2010. I am employed with company A ...
  A: The straightforward option you have described in your email is best. Even if Co. B files H1B ...
I-130 Status Change; Visa Date Retrogression2/6/2011
  Q: I filed I-130 petition for my son in Nov, 2005. At the time my son was under 21 years old and was ...
  A: Your son still has to attend the scheduled interview irrespective of whether the priority date is ...
Converting visit visa to student visa2/5/2011
  Q: My brother (36yr) has a 10 yr multiple entry B1/B2 visa and has visited 3 times in the past. Now he ...
  A: As a practical matter, it is difficult to successfully change from visitor to F1 student status ...
Family sponsor file status2/4/2011
  Q: which year file is running for family based immigrant visa
  A: This depends on your country of chargeability as well as the family preference category and priority ...
Naturalization2/3/2011
  Q: First let me thank you for taking the time to review my inquiry. My green card expires this March ...
  A: Unfortunately, you must renew your green card even if the naturalization application is filed prior ...
US tourist visa or H4 visa for wife2/3/2011
  Q: I currently work in US under H1B visa. My visa is getting expired in April. I got married in last ...
  A: There is no H4 application to be filed with the USCIS as your wife is not currently in the U.S. She ...
COS and H1B visa cap quota2/1/2011
  Q: I am planning to apply for H1, currently i am on L1. a company who is willing to sponsor h1 ...
  A: The H1B visa cap for fiscal year 2011 has been reached. Thus, the earliest that the H1B petition can ...
F1 VISA....SPONSERSHIP ISSUES1/31/2011
  Q: My uncle is an US citizen for the last 25yrs,so if he sponsers me for my education,will it affect my ...
  A: As issuance of B2 visa stamp by the Consulate also requires showing nonimmigrant intent, the odds of ...
F1 VISA....SPONSERSHIP ISSUES1/30/2011
  Q: My uncle is an US citizen for the last 25yrs,so if he sponsers me for my education,will it affect my ...
  A: Your uncle can support your F1 visa application at the Consulate by completing affidavit of support. ...
US visa for foreign friend1/30/2011
  Q: I have a question for which I can find no information. I am a male US citizen by birth. I am retired ...
  A: Your friend will need to apply for a B2 visitor visa directly at a U.S. Consulate in Malaysia. You ...
work permit renewal1/30/2011
  Q: my name is dipak ive got my work permit through labor certification, i had put my work permit in ...
  A: File a new EAD (employment authorization application) with the USCIS. However, unless you have ...
I-485 and H1B/H41/28/2011
  Q: I am currently on H1B status, my wife and daughter on H4 and my son is a US citizen. Our I-485 is ...
  A: All I-485's will still be approved if the new employer is offering you permanent, full-time ...
I-130/I-485/I-94 for parents1/28/2011
  Q: I am a US citizen and submitted I-130 for my parents. They are here in the US right now but their ...
  A: Yes, as parents of U.S. citizens are considered immediate relatives, I-485 can be filed concurrently ...
L1 Visa Rejection , Can get L2 Visa if spouse has L1.1/28/2011
  Q: My husband and myself are working in the same company .our company is applied for L1 visa for both ...
  A: Your husband can apply for L2 visa stamp based on issuance of L1 visa to you. The L2 visa stamp only ...
F1 to H4 to H1 (requesting consular notification)1/28/2011
  Q: Firstly, I want to know what "requesting consular notification" means. Secondly, I am in India right ...
  A: If the H1B petition was received by the USCIS on Jan. 25, it is within the visa cap. If it was ...
DS 2019 FORM1/28/2011
  Q: Im in USA on a B1/B2 Visa. If I get a job offer with J1 Visa sponsorship, can I work on DS2019 form ...
  A: You need J1 status to work, as issuance of Form DS-2019 by the sponsor is insufficient. Thus, the ...
employer wanting to hire applicant1/27/2011
  Q: I would like to hire a person that has received his I-765, Application for Employment Authorization ...
  A: To legally employ this person, he or she should have actual possession of the EAD (employment ...
L1 to H1B1/27/2011
  Q: I came to US in 2006 on L1A through employer A. I got my H1B done in 2007 through employer B. I ...
  A: As you had H1B approval within the past six years, even if you did not technically hold H1B status, ...
F-1 employment regulation1/27/2011
  Q: My husband is an American citizen and he is applying for my green card. We need to include my income ...
  A: F1 student status allows for on-campus employment 20 hours per week. You should speak with the DSO ...
Marriage--Witness as Magistrate's Staff members1/26/2011
  Q: I and my fiancee are planning to get married in court (civil marriage) but we dont have anyone to ...
  A: It is OK to have any witness, as the issuance of marriage certificates indicates a valid marriage. ...
H1-B married to US Citizen1/24/2011
  Q: I have been in USA on H1-B, I just switched my job and waiting for H1-B Transfer approval. I and my ...
  A: It is easiest for a bride to change name at time of marriage. Then all sponsorship paperwork will be ...
F2 to H1B1/24/2011
  Q: I am a Ph.D. student and will be graduating soon. My wife came to US on F2. She wants to work and we ...
  A: H1B petition filing requires the support of an employer in the U.S. Probability of success depends ...
adjustment of status student visa1/24/2011
  Q: my son studies in USA and got bachelor mech engineering and is studying MBA at the moment. He has ...
  A: In order to obtain permanent resident status in the U.S., normally your son must be sponsored by a ...
Regaining green card1/24/2011
  Q: I voluntarily abandoned my permanent residence card/green card a few years back, as I was living ...
  A: Your son can live in the U.S. anytime without any restrictions, but he can sponsor you only when he ...
F1 inquiry1/24/2011
  Q: I have done my Maters in USA and graduated in 2009 with 3.75 GPA and returned back to my Home ...
  A: Since your intention at time of entry to the U.S. will not be studies with the university that you ...
Opening a business on O-11/23/2011
  Q: I'm a composer on O-1 visa, I work for the media company that sponsors my status, I was wondering if ...
  A: O-1 visa status is employer specific. Thus, you can be legally employed only by your O-1 employer. ...
H1-H4-H11/21/2011
  Q: My H1-B Approved in Oct 2007. I was on bench for 9 months and after that I found project and worked ...
  A: The USCIS will not expect you to submit your pay stubs to change status from H4 to H1B even though ...
US Citizen sponsoring parents currently on EAD1/21/2011
  Q: Arora, Let me first thank you for taking the time to answer my question. I'm a permanent resident, ...
  A: Once you are a U.S. citizen, you can sponsor your parents: www.h1b1.com/sponsor.htm As they are ...
H1-B married to US Citizen1/21/2011
  Q: I have been in USA on H1-B, I just switched my job and waiting for H1-B Transfer approval. I and my ...
  A: You can be legally married in any state, and it makes no difference regarding sponsorship, and in ...
i-8641/21/2011
  Q: My Company recently filed for my H1B and it got approved. I just got married with my fiance who is a ...
  A: Your wife should accurately complete the I-864 including actual current residence for you and your ...
Tourist Visa and Pregnant1/20/2011
  Q: I am on a tourist visa in the US. I found out that I am pregnant. Can I give birth here in the US? ...
  A: When you give birth in the U.S., your child will automatically be a U.S. citizen. His or her birth ...
L1 to H1B Tricky situation.1/20/2011
  Q: I am currently on L1 in US for company A and supposed to go back in March/April 2010. I am talking ...
  A: If H1B is filed before the cap is reached, you can continue to remain legally in the U.S. However, ...
L1 to H1 transfer1/20/2011
  Q: Currently I am working on L1 in US. My current employer is paying me per diem and also complete ...
  A: There are two choices to work for the H1B employer: Either the H1B employer file I-129 again with ...
L1 to H1B Tricky situation.1/20/2011
  Q: I am currently on L1 in US for company A and supposed to go back in March/April 2010. I am talking ...
  A: Whether H1B petition is accepted within the visa cap depends on date of filing, not on date of ...
Wrong end date on H4 approval1/20/2011
  Q: 1. Changed from F1 to H1B in 2008 - end date 5/31/2011. 2. Filed I-539 for wife and kids for COS ...
  A: Based on our experience, the USCIS will issue same end date for all applicants on the I-539. I hope ...
K1 visa and Dominican divorce1/20/2011
  Q: I am an unmarried U.S. citizen and my fiance who is an Indian citizen just got his divorce from his ...
  A: I am assuming that your fiance's former wife is a Dominican citizen, or else resides in the ...
L1A and I-140 and I-4851/19/2011
  Q: I am on L1A and have not enetered the US yet. What is a better option - 1) Filing the I-140 now ...
  A: Premium processing is not available for I-140 in the EB1 multinational executive or manager ...
OPT1/19/2011
  Q: can I start my green card process from OPT w/o going through H1b? I am STEM and will be getting my ...
  A: As OPT is part of F1 student status, and as this status does not allow for intention to immigrate to ...
H1b Tricky Situation1/19/2011
  Q: Greetings, I graduate on May 7th (getting my PhD in Engineering) and I am on F1 visa. I got an ...
  A: The regular cap applies when the master's is reached; the regular cap is open at this time. It ...
H1b Tricky Situation1/18/2011
  Q: Greetings, I graduate on May 7th (getting my PhD in Engineering) and I am on F1 visa. I got an ...
  A: An H1B petition can be filed by your employer requesting change of status from F1 to H1B. You are ...
Change of Passport1/18/2011
  Q: My L1A petition is currently in process and I recently got married. If I change my passport to ...
  A: Marriage will have no impact on your L1A petition. If you obtain a new passport prior to applying ...
L2 visa reinterview1/17/2011
  Q: My wife and I both work for the same organization. Our company applied for an L1 visa for me and an ...
  A: The U.S. Consulate should have issued your wife a list of any documentation that she should carry ...
H1B petition denial; filing L1A blanket1/16/2011
  Q: My H1B petition was denied by the USCIS. Not visa stamping. I am yet to receive reason for the ...
  A: It is important in L1A cases that the U.S. company filing L1A petition clearly state and provide ...
H1B extension and green card.1/16/2011
  Q: My H1B expire on 01/11/2012 and my family's H4 expire on 09/26/2011, which is earlier than mine. I ...
  A: Your family should file H4 extension prior to 09/26/11. I recommend that your family file the H4 ...
H1B to L2 transfer1/15/2011
  Q: I am currently on L1A and my wife is on H1B but in a different location. We are currently looking ...
  A: If application to change status to L2 is filed with the USCIS, your wife will automatically be in L2 ...
Student Visa1/15/2011
  Q: "My Sb1 visas was denied by US Embassy in Paris they took my Green card away. Can I applyied for ...
  A: Yes, you can apply for F1 visa stamp at the U.S. Consulate once you are admitted to university or ...
Incorrect date of birth in passport1/13/2011
  Q: My husband got I 140 approved and we have to now file I 485. However my date of birth in passport is ...
  A: As the state department visa bulletin is published monthly, and there can be retrogression of visa ...
H4 to L1 conversion1/13/2011
  Q: I have recently got married and have both valid H-4 and L-1 on my passport. I entered US in December ...
  A: Yes, you can go to Canada or Mexico or other country and when entering the U.S. please sure to ...
L1 to H1B1/13/2011
  Q: I am currently on L1 visa which is valid till 2012. My company have applied for my H1 which is ...
  A: Yes, if your H1B approval notice granting change of status takes effect in the future, and you plan ...
H1B transfer without starting first job and COS to H41/12/2011
  Q: My wife got a job but she wants to find a new job near my work. Her H1B got approved and got visa ...
  A: The application to change status to H4 should be filed prior to Feb. 27, 2011, as the I-94 ...
H1B Transfer1/12/2011
  Q: Ajay K. Arora, I am currently working for Company A on an H1B visa. I have been offered a position ...
  A: It has been received by the USCIS, but it does not necessarily mean that it has been "filed". For ...
H4 to H1 conversion1/12/2011
  Q: I am an employee of an Indian MNC company and would be travelling soon with my husband to US on a H4 ...
  A: An H1B petition can be filed by your employer requesting change of status from H4 to H1B. When ...
H1B petition denial; filing L1A blanket1/12/2011
  Q: My H1B petition was denied by the USCIS. Not visa stamping. I am yet to receive reason for the ...
  A: The H1B denial by the USCIS should not negatively impact L1A approval by the USCIS as each petition ...
L1A1/12/2011
  Q: 1) My L1A petition was approved and I went for visa stamping to Chennai. The officer said all ...
  A: It is quite common for the Consulate to request additional documents prior to issuing the L1A visa ...
H1B petition Transfer1/12/2011
  Q: My previous employer filed an H1b petition for me and it got approved , I have I797 with me but date ...
  A: Your employer, or an attorney who has the authorization of the employer, must notify the USCIS to ...
L2 to L1B - physically return to home country for stamp?1/12/2011
  Q: I had an L2 Visa stamp in my passport from the UK on the back of my wife's L1 Visa about a year ago. ...
  A: You do not require L1B visa stamp in passport if you continue to remain in the U.S. and were granted ...
L1B to Greencard1/11/2011
  Q: My husband's currently on L1B visa with a company which is ready to file his Greencard. My husband ...
  A: Your husband will not be able to extend L1B status beyond an aggregate of 5 years even if the green ...
Moving to the USA as spouse of U.S. citizen1/10/2011
  Q: , I'm married to a U.S. citizen and we currently live in the UK. I'm aware that in order to move to ...
  A: Your wife will I-130 petition with the U.S. Consulate in London since she is currently residing in ...
us immigration1/7/2011
  Q: i am a bangladeshi citizen and my brother would like to petitioned me,how long does it take to ...
  A: Your U.S. citizen brother would file an immigrant petition for you with the USCIS in the 4th family ...
Changing Visa Status to F11/6/2011
  Q: I am presently on H4 visa and am a Masters student with a partial tuition waiver.I want to change my ...
  A: Yes, if the application to change status to F1 is denied, you will continue to maintain H4 status. ...
H1B Transfer1/5/2011
  Q: Ajay K. Arora, I am currently working for Company A on an H1B visa. I have been offered a position ...
  A: If Co. B filed its H1B petition prior to termination of your employment by Co. A, you can take ...
Maintain F-2 Status1/4/2011
  Q: My daughter and I got a F-2 visa in August 2010 last year while my wife received F-1. I traveled ...
  A: I assume that your wife is already present in the U.S. studying full-time. Your wife is not ...
Maintain F-2 Status1/4/2011
  Q: My daughter and I got a F-2 visa in August 2010 last year while my wife received F-1. I traveled ...
  A: As long as the principal F1 beneficiary (in this case your wife) is a full-time student and ...
sibling sponsorship1/4/2011
  Q: I am a US citizen and have filed for immigration for my adult unmarried brother. My parents have ...
  A: Your sponsorship is in the 4th family preference category (F4). If a parent sponsors as a green card ...
Marrying someone under the visa waiver program1/3/2011
  Q: My fiance is from England and she entered the US on a Visa Waiver but overstayed. I am in the Army ...
  A: Since she entered the U.S. legally, even if she subsequently overstayed, and even if she entered on ...
H4 to F1 with husband in I- 1401/3/2011
  Q: I am presently on H4 visa and am a Masters student with a partial tuition waiver.I want to change my ...
  A: You have an intention to immigrate to the U.S., and thus there is a possibility that the USCIS will ...
L1 ext. and H1B filing simultaneously12/30/2010
  Q: My L1B visa (and I-94) validity is till June 29, 2010. My current employer is going to process L1 ...
  A: I believe in your email that you intended to state that your L1 is expiring June 29, 2011 (not ...
H1B + Spouse + i-765 + Travel12/30/2010
  Q: My Company recently filed for my H1B and it got approved. I just got married with my fiance who is a ...
  A: You have listed all forms that you and your wife will file in the earlier email. There are no other ...
H1B + Spouse + i-765 + Travel12/30/2010
  Q: My Company recently filed for my H1B and it got approved. I just got married with my fiance who is a ...
  A: You are not required to file I-765, as EAD is not required for employment if you continue to be ...
business on J1 visa12/29/2010
  Q: I am on J1 visa and working/will continue to work for a university. I would like to parallel start ...
  A: J1 visa status is employer specific, and thus you can be employed only by the university. In ...
Income bracket to sponsor an alien12/28/2010
  Q: regarding the amount of income a petitioner needs to make in order to be eligible to sponsor an ...
  A: In our experience, the latest (current) tax return and W2 is what will be evaluated, and thus it is ...
Visting my boyfriend on my B1/B2 visa12/26/2010
  Q: I am mexican and live in Mexico. I am in a fairly new relationship with an american guy. I have a 10 ...
  A: In general, it is better to have short trips into the U.S. Longer trips and too much time spent in ...
marriage on H1B12/26/2010
  Q: I have an h1b with my current employer and an I-140 from a previous employer. My current employer is ...
  A: As long as you are married by the time your priority date is current, your spouse will be able to ...
Is my case closed for good?12/26/2010
  Q: some years ago 12 to be exact my parents petitioned me and my brother for a green card I was 15 at ...
  A: Unfortunately, due to the denial of an immigrant visa by the U.S. Consulate there is no benefit ...
Lost naturalization cert.12/24/2010
  Q: My wife moved from Canada to the US in the early 70's. This was before we were married. She says she ...
  A: Your wife should file Form N565 for replacement naturalization certificate with the USCIS if ...
F1 visa and traveling12/24/2010
  Q: Hey... I'm an international student in U.S from India. I came here in AuG 2008 and have never ...
  A: As long as you have maintained your student status by being a full-time student, and as long as you ...
H1B transfer without starting first job12/23/2010
  Q: My wife got a job but she wants to find a new job near my work. Her H1B got approved and got visa ...
  A: Your wife should not enter on H1B visa stamp (assuming that she applies for and receives H1B visa ...
L1 to H1 conversion12/22/2010
  Q: my husband has recently got his L1 stamped thru complany A which is now valid for three years and we ...
  A: My recommendation is to enter the U.S. and for your husband to start working for the L1 employer. ...
Sponsering Parents visa12/20/2010
  Q: I want to sponsor visitor's visa for my parents. Me and my wife both are working in USA(on L1 Visa). ...
  A: You can fill out one I-134 for your parents, and your wife can fill out another I-134 independently. ...
EAD (L2) to H4 status12/20/2010
  Q: I am currently working on L1 and my wife working on L2 (EAD). Her EAD (My L1 and her L2), all the ...
  A: Your wife can work for H1B employer only upon approval of H1B petition by USCIS granting her change ...
Visa for son of ill Vietnam war veteran12/19/2010
  Q: My father, who is an American citizen, served in the U.S Air force for 8 years and did a tour of ...
  A: Unfortunately, you will have to wait for the priority date to be current in the F1 family preference ...
canadian citizen petitioned by us citizen sister12/19/2010
  Q: im a canadian citizen and my sister would like to petitioned me,how long does it take to process my ...
  A: Your sister will file an immigrant petition for you in the 4th family preference category: ...
L1-B : First Name Issue12/16/2010
  Q: My self Mohit Agrawal from India. Passport : First Name Middle Name Last Name MOHIT ...
  A: It will not be a problem, since the other information on the documents (such as date of birth, or ...
EAD (L2) to H4 status12/16/2010
  Q: I am currently working on L1 and my wife working on L2 (EAD). Her EAD (My L1 and her L2), all the ...
  A: Your H1B has surely been approved as well, since the USCIS would not have granted H4 status to your ...
lost EAD card12/16/2010
  Q: I am on J-2 visa now and want to apply for work authorization, while filling the (i-765) form there ...
  A: The new I-765 application should still be approved and you should be issued new EAD. Add any ...
L1B Blanket rejected, will filing L1B individual Help?12/14/2010
  Q: I recently appeared for a L1B Blanket visa at the US consulate & the visa was denied stating "Not ...
  A: The likely reason for visa refusal is not being able to establish specialized knowledge beyond that ...
L1B Blanket rejected, will filing L1B individual Help?12/14/2010
  Q: I recently appeared for a L1B Blanket visa at the US consulate & the visa was denied stating "Not ...
  A: An L1 individual will not help. If you have the equivalent of a four-year U.S. bachelor's degree, ...
SSN for L2 visa holders12/13/2010
  Q: Can L2 visa holders apply for SSN without EAD? If yes, are L2 visa holders with SSN and without EAD ...
  A: You should apply for EAD, and once it is obtained you can go to the local social security office and ...
Marriage to U.S. citizen12/13/2010
  Q: Sir, My daughter is Indian, she wants to marry an US citizen.. Please let me know what kind of visa ...
  A: I am assuming that your daughter is currently in India. If your daughter is engaged to a U.S. ...
L1 to H1 COS12/12/2010
  Q: I am on L1 with company A which is getting expired on 1st Feb 2011. Company B has filed my L1 to H1 ...
  A: You cannot be legally employed by Co. B until H1B petition is approved by the USCIS granting you ...
US work visa for employee of an NGO12/10/2010
  Q: I am a Canadian citizen who has accepted an associate director position with a US non-profit ...
  A: H1B is the best option, as TN is only for very limited set of occupations. If you are offered ...
I 130 approved and priority date current12/10/2010
  Q: My priority date is July 22nd 2010. I received the approval notice on Nov 30 2010. I would like to ...
  A: Your priority date in the F2A category is current for the month of December. Additional information ...
H1B violation of status and diversity visa lottery12/10/2010
  Q: I had a F-1 visa and working as a teaching assistant in the university. A company offered me a job, ...
  A: There has been violation of status, and thus adjustment of status is not possible. However, you can ...
Visa waiver extension12/9/2010
  Q: I am a US citizen living in NY and I met my boyfriend while traveling in Belgium. He is now with me ...
  A: It appears that entry was made on the visa waiver program. If so, extension of stay is not possible ...
H1B Transfer Query12/9/2010
  Q: Ajay, First of all, you are doing a wonderful job. I am in midst of an H1-B transfer. I left my ...
  A: There is only a 10-day grace period starting the date that employment was terminated. Outside this ...
Visitor visa12/9/2010
  Q: i have been in a relationship with my boyfriend who is an american citizen and based in detroit ...
  A: You should contact the nearest U.S. Consulate and apply for B2 visa stamp to enter the U.S. Entry on ...
H1B Transfer Query12/9/2010
  Q: Ajay, First of all, you are doing a wonderful job. I am in midst of an H1-B transfer. I left my ...
  A: As you are within the 10-day grace period applicable to H1B visa status, when the USCIS approves the ...
L2 to H1B visa12/8/2010
  Q: I am on L2 spouse visa. I came to US on oct 7 2010 and my EAD was filed on oct 28. My husband's L1 ...
  A: You will no longer hold L2 status, and your EAD will be invalid, when your spouse's H1B petition is ...
Moms' Green Card - I 824 or I 48512/8/2010
  Q: I applied for green card for my mom when she was here. Her I 130 got approved as soon as she left to ...
  A: I assume that your mother has an unexpired visitor visa to enter the U.S. She should not enter on ...
adjustment of status for my wife12/7/2010
  Q: my wife and i have been married for two years and I am eligible to apply for citizenship as of ...
  A: An immigrant petition (also known as I-130 petition) should be filed for your wife if you have not ...
For L2 visa is NOC/Leave letter required from Current Employer for L2 visa processing12/6/2010
  Q: My wife got a L1-B visa and has traveled to US last month.I work for a US company and hold a B1 ...
  A: Employment is authorized in L2 visa status only when you also have EAD (employment authorization ...
Married on a F1 visa12/5/2010
  Q: I'm a F1 visa holder doing a 4 year long BA (am now only on my first year), and me and my boyfriend ...
  A: I mean sponsorship as in your spouse will file paperwork with the USCIS allowing you to become a ...
No A# on the I-140 Receipt12/3/2010
  Q: My I-140 receipt notice does not have a A#. Should my employer contact the USCIS? Thank you! ...
  A: I may have misinterpreted your question earlier. I misunderstood your question to be that there are ...
H-1B ranking and grades12/1/2010
  Q: I was wondering if having average grades and ranking would lead to a denial from USCIS for the H-1B ...
  A: H1B requires only completion of the equivalent of a four-year U.S. bachelor's degree. There is no ...
Married on a F1 visa12/1/2010
  Q: I'm a F1 visa holder doing a 4 year long BA (am now only on my first year), and me and my boyfriend ...
  A: There is no problem in getting legally married, but if you marry either a U.S. citizen or permanent ...
L1 and L2 visa together?11/30/2010
  Q: My husband is currently in US on L1-B visa which ends on Dec 15 , 2010. But he has a valid I-94 with ...
  A: As you can hold only one status at a time in the U.S., you will no longer hold L1B visa status when ...
Additional travel documents along with my Green Card?11/27/2010
  Q: I am Indian Citizen with an Indian Passport. In the past few years I have received the Green card ...
  A: You need only your green card and passport, and there is no problem if you passport has an H1B ...
marrying a US citizen11/25/2010
  Q: as a canadian if I were to marry an american what would the immigration process be like if I were to ...
  A: Upon marriage, your U.S. citizen spouse would file an immigrant petition for you, and after several ...
permanent resident and reentry permit11/25/2010
  Q: I'm really confuse. I'm a permanent resident. I was told i was not allowed to be outside the USA for ...
  A: As the time outside has been one year or more without reentry permit, you will be considered to have ...
dual intention on L1 visa11/24/2010
  Q: I have L1 visa status in USA, as I know this kind of visa assumes dual intention. Who and how can ...
  A: Please talk to your L1 employer about filing an I-140 immigrant petition for you. See ...
F3 family preference category11/24/2010
  Q: sir, my parents have u.s citizen. they have applied i-130 visa for me in june 2007. iam married and ...
  A: The family preference category is F3 as married child of U.S. citizen. At this time as per the State ...
H1-H4-H111/24/2010
  Q: I was on H1-B Visa working with company A. My employment ended on Sep 30. Few days before ...
  A: If you are granted change of status from H4 to H1B (so that the H1B approval notice has a new I-94 ...
H1-H4-H111/24/2010
  Q: I was on H1-B Visa working with company A. My employment ended on Sep 30. Few days before ...
  A: You cannot be employed by Co. B until H1B petition filed by Co. B is approved granting you change of ...
L1 to H1 Transfer11/23/2010
  Q: I came in US 6 months back on L1. I got an employer who filed H1 for me and during Transition of L1 ...
  A: It would have been OK to remain legally in the U.S. if the H1B petition requesting change of status ...
Traveling Overseas while LPR11/23/2010
  Q: I hope this email will find you in great health and spirit. I like to ask you about citizenship and ...
  A: Since you appear to have a valid reason for staying abroad between six months and one year, the ...
B2/B1 to H4 status11/22/2010
  Q: I am currently in US for the past 3 months on B1/B2 visa. Due to some unforeseen circumstances my ...
  A: Allow about 3 months for the change of status to be approved. However, you can remain legally in the ...
B2/B1 to H4 status11/22/2010
  Q: I am currently in US for the past 3 months on B1/B2 visa. Due to some unforeseen circumstances my ...
  A: You can change status from B1/B2 to H4 without any problem as your spouse is maintaining his H1B ...
I-13011/22/2010
  Q: I have two questions: 1. I got 130I approved, and F2B is in process. How long will it take for me ...
  A: How long it takes for a GC in the F2B category is based on the priority date (when the I-130 ...
H4 Visa for Step Daughter11/22/2010
  Q: I have my H1B approved and intend to go for stamping soon. i would like to clarify what documents ...
  A: There will be no problem with your step-daughter being issued an H4 visa at the U.S. Consulate in ...
L1 visa and extension of status11/20/2010
  Q: L1 Visa extension. Hi Ajay, I have an L1 Visa that expires the 19 January 2011. Last year I was ...
  A: It is OK for you to enter the U.S. prior to Jan. 19, 2011 and you can continue to remain legally in ...
L1 visa and extension of status11/19/2010
  Q: L1 Visa extension. Hi Ajay, I have an L1 Visa that expires the 19 January 2011. Last year I was ...
  A: After coming back to the U.S. on 4th January, please have your employer file an L1 petition with the ...
I-130 Status Change11/19/2010
  Q: I filed I-130 petition for my son in Nov, 2005. At the time my son was under 21 years old and was ...
  A: As your son is now automatically in the family first preference category (F1), if the priority date ...
245i11/19/2010
  Q: I am a U.S. citizen, and the guy I want to marry has 245(i) approved.His father applied for it and ...
  A: Yes, since your fiance is grandfathered under sec. 245(i), if you marry each other than you can ...
L1B rejection and options11/18/2010
  Q: My L1B got rejected with this reason- "Your blanket L-1 is not clearly approvable under section 8 ...
  A: Due to visa cap issues (nobody can predict when the visa cap will be reached) please have your ...
F2 Visa Transfer to H1B11/18/2010
  Q: I am a PhD student on F1 visa and my wife has a F2 visa. He has visited USA once, but currently is ...
  A: When the Consulate issues your wife H1B visa stamp, they will generally cancel the existing F2 visa ...
L2 TO H1B WITHOUT EAD11/18/2010
  Q: I wanted to know if I can still apply for H1B from L2 visa. I have no work permit and have not ...
  A: You cannot revoke or withdraw the H1B petition...only the company which filed the H1B petition can ...
F1 and PERM and H411/18/2010
  Q: I am currently on my OPT. My husband is in H1B and his company filed for his PERM on Oct 2010.Is ...
  A: It is OK for you to continue on F1 status at this time. However, when PERM is certified and your ...
1-751 interview without spouse11/17/2010
  Q: "I came into the us with a finance visa got married within 30day and was given a conditional green ...
  A: You should go to the interview, as otherwise the I-751 (petition to remove the conditions on ...
L1B rejection and options11/16/2010
  Q: My L1B got rejected with this reason- "Your blanket L-1 is not clearly approvable under section 8 ...
  A: Your employer will file H1B petition with the USCIS requesting change of status from B1 to H1B. ...
L1 Visa holder marrying US citizen11/16/2010
  Q: Good morning ajay, i am a L1 Blanket Visa holder with Valid Visa till Jan 2013. I am here for my ...
  A: After marriage, you can be sponsored by your U.S. citizen spouse and receive resident status ("Green ...
applied for gc ...been waiting11/16/2010
  Q: I applied for (for petition & adjustment- I 130 & I485) and went for an interview September of ...
  A: As you responded to the NOID on a timely basis, your case should be OK, but it is a good idea both ...
H1B11/16/2010
  Q: I’m L1B visa and my spouse is in L2-EAD and we both are currently working for 2 IT companies in NYC. ...
  A: When the H1B petition is approved granting you change of status to H1B, then your spouse will no ...
H1B TO L211/15/2010
  Q: I have recently got my H1B [from L2] for 6 months. I have to travel to my home country in feb. 1. My ...
  A: If your H1B petition is approved granting you change of status, then you are already in H1B status, ...
Spouse not applying for GC11/15/2010
  Q: You said you didn't understand the question. My question was- what will be the problems in the ...
  A: It appears that you are sponsored by either a U.S. citizen parent or sibling, and are covered under ...
Permanent leave with green card11/15/2010
  Q: I am a Hungarian citizen. I have lived in the US for 10 years and received my permanent green card ...
  A: It appears that your rentry permit has expired, and it also appears as well that you are not ...
L1B rejection and options11/14/2010
  Q: My L1B got rejected with this reason- "Your blanket L-1 is not clearly approvable under section 8 ...
  A: H1B can be filed immediately by your employer with the USCIS. Upon approval of the H1B petition, you ...
B1/B2 visa and marriage to USC11/13/2010
  Q: my son in law (as of Aug.2010) is in us from Jam on a B1/B2 visa due to expire in Feb 2011. He is ...
  A: If the I-130 along with I-485 (adjustment of status application) are filed concurrently, your son in ...
Spouse not applying for GC11/13/2010
  Q: You said you didn't understand the question. My question was- what will be the problems in the ...
  A: If your spouse is the principal beneficiary of an approved immigrant petition (such as I-130 or ...
Petition to remove conditional green card11/13/2010
  Q: I am a us citizen and my husband got to the states in 2008 with the conditional green card. We ...
  A: As a failure to respond to a RFE (request for evidence) based on your explanation is not a defense, ...
F1 student - work11/12/2010
  Q: my friend is here on an F1 visa. she wasn't able to pay for her tution fee so opted for employment ...
  A: Bona fide marriage to a U.S. citizen will result in issuance of EAD (employment authorization ...
adjustment of status based on marriage11/12/2010
  Q: i am a student from kenya with an F1 status i entered the country with a b1 visa and while visiting ...
  A: Based on marriage to a U.S. citizen, all sponsorship paperwork can be filed concurrently: ...
H1B visa stamping11/11/2010
  Q: Just to give a brief background - I was on H1B through my previous employer from Oct 2008 till May ...
  A: As you have unexpired H1B visa stamp in passport, and the purpose of your entry the next time you ...
adjustment of status for out of status brother11/11/2010
  Q: good evening, my question is as follow: I am a US citizen and had petition my brother in june 2002, ...
  A: Your brother cannot adjust status in the U.S. since he is not maintaining nonimmigrant visa status ...
Petitioning adult child11/11/2010
  Q: I have a few questions on how to petition my adult unmarried child and his 3 children. I am ...
  A: Only one I-130 petition is required for your unmarried child. His 3 children are automatically ...
H1B and EAD11/10/2010
  Q: my wife (a previous F2 visa holder) was offered a job and her employer sponsored her H1B visa. After ...
  A: If the I-797 (H1B approval notice) granted her change of status, then your wife is automatically in ...
COS from H1B to F111/10/2010
  Q: Ajay Arora, I am planning to change my visa status from H1B to F1 for pursuing my MBA on a fulltime ...
  A: It can take several months for the USCIS to approve the change of status from H1B to F1 application. ...
Citizenship- under 2111/10/2010
  Q: My father is about to become a naturalized US Citizen, after having his green card for 5 years. ...
  A: If you are under 18, you are included in your father's naturalization application. If you are 18 or ...
OPT and B211/7/2010
  Q: My opt expires on jan 2011. I want to join another degree program but the program does not start ...
  A: Your husband will be included in your B2 application. The probability is quite high that the ...
OPT11/7/2010
  Q: My opt expires on jan 2011. I want to join another degree program but the program does not start ...
  A: As there is only a 60-day grace period to remain legally in the U.S. after OPT expiration, you ...
Volunteer work11/7/2010
  Q: I am on M1 visa, i would like to know that can i work as volunteer.
  A: You can volunteer for activities which are not normally compensated such as charitable ...
interview for an i-751 without my husband11/4/2010
  Q: i came to the states with a k-1 visa,got married and was given a conditional green card which ...
  A: There is no choice but to appear for the interview. It can be explained to the interviewing officer ...
B2 visa to F1 visa11/4/2010
  Q: I currently have a colleague who has just been issued an I-20 to attened school over in the USA. He ...
  A: Attending school is not allowed in B visa status, and changing status from B2 to F1 student visa ...
Marriage to USC and green card11/4/2010
  Q: Is the applications and the entire process for someone to get their greencard through marriage with ...
  A: Sponsorship through marriage to a U.S. citizen is a procedurally intensive immigration matter which ...
Employer change of Address11/2/2010
  Q: I am on H1b and Green card in process. My office has recently moved to a new address, a few blocks ...
  A: The employer completes the LCA, as it can be signed only by the petitioner. The period of intended ...
EAD Card for new job10/31/2010
  Q: I have recently filed AOS based on my marriage to a US citizen, along with the I-765 for a new EAD. ...
  A: Yes, you can use your existing EAD to work anywhere. However, if the previously filed Adjustment of ...
L1 to H1B...can I stay in US until H1B decision?10/29/2010
  Q: My L1 extension denied, and my current company applied for H1B with Change of Status form L1 to H1 ...
  A: If you depart the U.S., the H1B petition is approvable, but you will not be granted change of ...
Green Card expired-Am i Illegal?10/29/2010
  Q: I actually have 2 questions which I will try to make short and to the point. The first one is: I ...
  A: You are not illegal. You are still a permanent resident even though your green card has expired. ...
h1b and green card lottery10/26/2010
  Q: Can you enter the diversity lottery after a h1b petition has been filed for you? Conversely, can you ...
  A: It is OK to file H1B before or after applying in the diversity visa lottery program, or vice-versa. ...
sponsorship by U.S. citizen spouse10/26/2010
  Q: i come to this country 8 years ago, i had a visa as a turist, but i never come back to my country, ...
  A: The I-130 is the immigrant petition. In most cases, the I-130 is filed first, and upon approval and ...
H1B transfer without pay stubs10/26/2010
  Q: I am on H1B visa with one of the employer. He has not paid me since Jan 2010. Now I have got a full ...
  A: Your new employer will need to file H1B transfer petition without recent pay stubs from your current ...
H1 transfer for dependent10/26/2010
  Q: I have my H1b visa in the process of transfer from one place to another. I'm already started to work ...
  A: The USCIS will deny the application to extend your daughter's H4 status (Form I-539) based on ...
H1B Extension when I-94 expired10/25/2010
  Q: I've been with my current employer since 2004 and they have applied for my labor cert for my ...
  A: It is best to suspend your employment (remove yourself from payroll), and have your employer convert ...
NVC letter after I-130 approved10/24/2010
  Q: I entered US legally on a tourist visa, but overstayed and currently out of status. My husband who ...
  A: As you are planning on adjusting status in the U.S. after your husband becomes a U.S. citizen (you ...
Amending N40010/24/2010
  Q: I filled out my amount of trips and total days out of country in the last 5 years on my N 400 form ...
  A: When you receive the N400 receipt notice (Form I-797) from the USCIS within 2 to 3 weeks after ...
visitor visa10/24/2010
  Q: My stepson has a 10 year tourist visa for visits from Mexico to the US. He is with us in the US now ...
  A: There is no definite answer, but every entry requires answering questions from the immigration ...
tourist visa / Marriage to GC holder10/23/2010
  Q: I am from the Ukraine, have tourist visa, expires in 12/10. if i marry my fiance who is a green card ...
  A: After marriage, your wife can file an immigrant petition for you. If the priority date becomes ...
place of interview for immigration visa10/23/2010
  Q: I am an Indian national. My daughter wishes to file an application in USA FOR MY GREEN CARD. I at ...
  A: If your daughter is a U.S. citizen, she can file an immigrant petition for you with the USCIS: ...
Previous Out-of-Status Issues10/22/2010
  Q: Arora, Thanks a lot for your time! My H1-B with Employer_A started in April 2003. Prior to that, ...
  A: You did not have any unauthorized stay (retroactively speaking). See page 6 of ...
L2 to H1B visa transfer10/22/2010
  Q: My husband is on L1 Visa from 2008. I came to US in 2009 on L2 (dependent Visa). I got my EAD and I ...
  A: The H1B petition should specify the start date. Thus, if petition is filed on Oct. 22, 2010 ...
L2 to H1B visa transfer10/22/2010
  Q: My husband is on L1 Visa from 2008. I came to US in 2009 on L2 (dependent Visa). I got my EAD and I ...
  A: If the USCIS approves the H1B petition granting you change of status, then you will automatically be ...
visa waiver entry10/22/2010
  Q: I am a perm resident able to take cotizenship in april 2011 my wife is a us citizen...my biological ...
  A: There is no exception to the rule which prohibits extension of stay in the U.S. for someone entering ...
Previous Out-of-Status Issues10/22/2010
  Q: Arora, Thanks a lot for your time! My H1-B with Employer_A started in April 2003. Prior to that, ...
  A: As the USCIS granted you extension of status, any previous technical violation will not cause ...
Birth in the US for L1B holder10/21/2010
  Q: Both my wife and I are Canadian citizens. I am an L1B holder, but my wife is not nor does she ...
  A: There is no residency requirement. As the L2 visa stamp is multiple-entry, your wife can enter the ...
H1B &Marriage10/20/2010
  Q: Fremont, CA I have been terminated for my H-1B visa about 1week ago. My boyfriend (US citizen) ...
  A: It is OK to have a simple civil ceremony and for the sponsorship paperwork to be filed based on ...
H4 to H1B change of status10/20/2010
  Q: 1.When H1B/H4 Extension is approved, will we get the I-94 number same as the previous I-94 number? ...
  A: H4 application can be withdrawn by the applicant by sending a letter to the USCIS requesting ...
H4 to H1B change of status10/20/2010
  Q: 1.When H1B/H4 Extension is approved, will we get the I-94 number same as the previous I-94 number? ...
  A: The I-94 number in extension cases will be the same I-94 number that you currently possess. The ...
Visitor Visa sponsorship question10/20/2010
  Q: I am planning to apply for a B2 visa to visit my sister in the US for Christmas. She is a USC (as of ...
  A: I recommend that your sister file I-134 for you. To this she can attach copy of her latest federal ...
h1 to h410/20/2010
  Q: My wife has applied for cos from h1 to h4 . this was done within 2 weeks of her leaving the job ( ...
  A: If it is OK for you to travel, I recommend applying for H4 visa stamp at any U.S. Consulate in ...
h1 to h410/19/2010
  Q: My wife has applied for cos from h1 to h4 . this was done within 2 weeks of her leaving the job ( ...
  A: Grace period is 10 calendar days, not 10 business days. In addition, because of paystub discrepancy, ...
U.S. citizenship and physical presence10/18/2010
  Q: I am a green card holder from last 13 years. I was admitted to medical school in india in the year ...
  A: You are not eligible for citizenship at this time as you have not been physically present in the ...
GC through employer sponsorship10/17/2010
  Q: Good Morning. I completed MBA(Health care Management) and presently I am on H1B visa for the last ...
  A: As you have a master's degree from the U.S. (or equivalent), the PERM process (also known as labor ...
H4 for working spouse10/16/2010
  Q: Ajay My wife currently works on EAD (based on pending 485).I recently changed from status from L1 ...
  A: Yes, your wife will be eligible for H4 visa stamp at a U.S. Consulate in India based on the fact ...
H1B or TN?10/16/2010
  Q: While I am currently an M1 visa holder studying Shiatsu, my devoted work as a Yoga teacher has been ...
  A: Based on a combination of your degrees and employment experience, you appear qualified. I do not ...
h1 to h410/15/2010
  Q: My wife has applied for cos from h1 to h4 . this was done within 2 weeks of her leaving the job ( ...
  A: The Vermont Service Center (VSC) is taking 4 to 5 months (actually closer to 5 months) to grant ...
Marriage to USC while on B2 visa10/15/2010
  Q: My fiance has proposed to me while I am in the US on a B2 visa. He is a US citizen. We want to get ...
  A: Yes, it is normally safe to be married and for sponsorship paperwork to be filed if both events ...
B1/2 to H1B10/15/2010
  Q: I was previously on a F1 visa that expires in 2013 but my I20 has lapsed since I am not currently ...
  A: As the intention of your entry will be to visit rather than study, you cannot enter the U.S. on ...
Deportation through revocation of GC10/15/2010
  Q: I'm a greencard holder since 3 years. I got my green through my uncle who sponsored my dad. Can he ...
  A: Since the sponsorship has been successfully completed and you are now a lawful permanent resident ...
permit to work in usa10/15/2010
  Q: i am currently living in the usa and i have a b1 and b2 visa. i would like work in this country as ...
  A: In almost all cases you cannot be employed without a job offer. The U.S. employer will complete the ...
Inviting my Aunt to the U.S.10/14/2010
  Q: I'm a naturalize citizen. I would like to invite my aunt to come visit me and my family here in the ...
  A: Your Aunt should apply for a B2 visa stamp at the nearest U.S. Consulate. The following website is ...
h1b to h410/13/2010
  Q: Arora, My wife came to usa in sep2008 on h1b visa.since then her employer did not give ...
  A: Your wife was violating her H1B status by not being employed as per agreed upon terms stated in the ...
Visa for Chinese woman (fiance)10/13/2010
  Q: I am taking a trip soon to China to meet a woman, and if all goes well, she may wish to come to the ...
  A: A good site for learning more about fiance visa (K1) for the purpose of travel to the U.S. for ...
Marriage to USC10/13/2010
  Q: I need your advice about immigration. I am a U.S citizen, I married to a Canadian in 1991. I moved ...
  A: The process to sponsor the spouse of a U.S. citizen involves the filing of quite a few petitions and ...
Apply L2 EAD and L1 Visa together10/13/2010
  Q: I just needed one more clarification. Can my husband come to US on L2 Visa and apply for EAD and at ...
  A: Your husband cannot enter on L2 visa status since your L1 status has apparently expired in April, ...
I-130 petition for spouse by permanent resident10/12/2010
  Q: I am green card holder and filed the petition I 130 for my spouse in july 2010. when i check the ...
  A: Although the priority date is current, the USCIS can still take several months for processing the ...
L2 stamped if I have filed my H1B?10/12/2010
  Q: I am in India and my current employer here has filed my H1B.My husband is in US on L1 and I am ...
  A: There will be no problem being issued L2 visa stamp at the Consulate, and you can apply for L2 visa ...
Both valid L2 and L1 visa simultaneously?10/12/2010
  Q: I currently have an L2 visa and my Company is applying for an L1 for me.If my L1 visa gets approved. ...
  A: As you can hold only one status at a time, the latest action by USCIS determines the status that you ...
L2 to L1b for Spouse10/10/2010
  Q: ....I currently have an L1 Visa and am planning for an L2 Visa stamping for my husband. We both work ...
  A: There is no problem if you husband travels to the U.S. on L2 visa stamp and then his U.S. employer ...
H1B and green card lottery10/10/2010
  Q: The company I'm working for is planning to apply an H1b visa for me in the coming months. ...
  A: The green card lottery is totally independent of the H visa category. In addition, H visa category ...
H-1B visa stamping10/7/2010
  Q: I received H-1B approval notice with the validity from 1st October 2010 to March 2013. Right now I ...
  A: If you are in the U.S. and H1B approval states that you were granted change of status, then you are ...
I-140 (Advanced Degree Requirement) EB2 filing10/6/2010
  Q: Arora, Thank you for reading my message. My PERM was certified with a MS + 0 years of experience ...
  A: You are fortunate that there was no RFE at PERM stage. Now that PERM has been certified, I-140 ...
How to retain my green card in my case?10/4/2010
  Q: I’m Egyptian guy who work in Saudi Arabia , I got a green card through DV in 2009, traveled to USA ...
  A: When entering the U.S. in July, 2011 try to carry evidence of a residence in the U.S. such as filing ...
f2b question10/3/2010
  Q: im an f2b case and i recently passed my interview and got my immigrant visa. my problem is i got my ...
  A: As the baby was not yet born as of the date that the Department of State forms were completed, and ...
L1A work location10/3/2010
  Q: Can one on L1A work from client premises since the team that he supervises is located at the client ...
  A: The L1A category does not have restrictions regarding location of employment. If your duties and ...
L1A denied10/2/2010
  Q: I was suggested to file for H1 or L1 A (individual) by visa officer. Will the rejection have any ...
  A: As long as you have bachelor's or above, and the job requires the same type of degree to adequately ...
L1A denied10/2/2010
  Q: I was suggested to file for H1 or L1 A (individual) by visa officer. Will the rejection have any ...
  A: The visa stamp refusal by the Consulate should not affect USCIS approval of subsequently filed L1A ...
L1A denied10/2/2010
  Q: I was suggested to file for H1 or L1 A (individual) by visa officer. Will the rejection have any ...
  A: L1A visa stamp by a U.S. Consulate is unlikely to be issued for L1A individual if it was denied ...
h1b-M1-Eb210/1/2010
  Q: h1b petitioned denied before, applied for M1 to maintain status before i-94 will expire, currently a ...
  A: If you find a company willing to file PERM (labor certification) in EB2 category, then it is OK for ...
Transfer from H4 to H1b10/1/2010
  Q: Helllo, I need your opinion on how to proceed with this particular situation. My husband's H1b is ...
  A: You must be maintaining valid nonimmigrant visa status at the time an extension or change of status ...
H1B-H4-H1B9/30/2010
  Q: My wife is on H1B visa with Employer A and we've applied for her H4 recently since her H1B will be ...
  A: If her employment has not been terminated by Employer A, and the revocation letter not sent to USCIS ...
h1b-M1-Eb29/30/2010
  Q: h1b petitioned denied before, applied for M1 to maintain status before i-94 will expire, currently a ...
  A: Since M1 status requires a nonimmigrant intent, I recommend that the green card process through the ...
First Name Space problem9/29/2010
  Q: My first name in Rajnikant but in my passport it is Rajni Kant .So will it be cause of concern for ...
  A: To avoid future problems, you should obtain amended passport with corrected name, or a new passport ...
L1 to H1 and multiple H19/29/2010
  Q: I am currently in US on L1 with Company A. Another company B filed my H1 petition and it got ...
  A: If you were granted "change of status" through Co. C, then you can continue working in L1 status ...
Affidavit of support RFE after filing I4859/28/2010
  Q: I am a PHD student in F1 status married to a US citizen and have filed I485/I130. My husband does ...
  A: Yes, if you do not have OPT or CPT, please submit letter from the DSO verifying that you are ...
H1B denied9/28/2010
  Q: I had an approved H1b filed by the company a but then the contract was voided because of economic ...
  A: You have been officially violating your nonimmigrant visa status since Co. B's H1B petition was ...
L2 TO H1B WITHOUT EAD9/27/2010
  Q: I wanted to know if I can still apply for H1B from L2 visa. I have no work permit and have not ...
  A: You are not required to have EAD in order to maintain L2 visa status. It is important for H1B ...
H1B-H4-H1B9/27/2010
  Q: My wife is on H1B visa with Employer A and we've applied for her H4 recently since her H1B will be ...
  A: Since H1B portability does not apply (due to termination of employment through Employer A), ...
H4 to F1 visa9/27/2010
  Q: I am currently on H4 visa and doing my masters here in United States. I will be completing my 30 ...
  A: An application to change status to F1 (Form I-539) should be filed with the USCIS. You should ...
Inviting parents for Graduation Ceremony9/27/2010
  Q: I am going to graduate in Dec 2010. I want to invite may parents and my sister(21+) for may ...
  A: Your parents and sister will apply directly at the nearest U.S. Consulate for B2 visitor visa. The ...
H1B-H4-H1B9/27/2010
  Q: My wife is on H1B visa with Employer A and we've applied for her H4 recently since her H1B will be ...
  A: If H1B through Employer B is filed after termination of employment through Employer A (and while ...
L1A REJECTION--OPTIONS?9/27/2010
  Q: I had applied for L1A visa under blanket petition. My visa was rejected on 20th Sep 2010 b,coz I had ...
  A: If L1A was denied, there is a good possibility of L1B denial as well. I recommend a different visa ...
I-130 and priority dates9/25/2010
  Q: My father filed my f2b papers on the 21Sep2006 how fast is the papers processing & how long more ...
  A: According to the latest visa bulletin, the visa availability date is current for petitions filed on ...
I-130 filing and priority dates9/25/2010
  Q: My father filed my papers on the 21Sep2006 how fast is the papers processing & how long more before ...
  A: The length of time that it takes the priority date to become current depends on whether your age, ...
I-8649/24/2010
  Q: We send the I-864 with the I-485 together, but we received the mail from USCIS saying to provide ...
  A: Yes, if you have not sent the response, go ahead and mail new I-864 through another person as well. ...
245i9/24/2010
  Q: My brother petition (under 245i) is current this month but they never sent us the approval notice. ...
  A: I suggest that another person who is either a U.S. citizen or permanent resident also file I-864, ...
F-1 student and marriage to U.S. citizen9/23/2010
  Q: I just got married to my wife whom is a student with a F-1 visa. We got married in June of this ...
  A: If all sponsorship paperwork such as petition for alien relative, adjustment of status, etc. are ...
F1 Marriage question9/23/2010
  Q: My brother is here in us doing his phd.He was married before applying for f1 visa.He declared his ...
  A: If your brother was not legally married as per Indian law when applying for F1 visa at the ...
Missing OPT EAD Card9/22/2010
  Q: I have graduated from my university in December 2008, and I completed one year with my OPT, had ...
  A: Please apply for replacement EAD by coordinating with the DSO (also known as international student ...
I-130 approved ..what next ?9/22/2010
  Q: My brother applied (for sister) I-130 in June, 2002 and it was approved in Oct, 2009. What is the ...
  A: It is not possible to predict visa movement on a monthly basis. You should check the visa bulletin ...
Indian Embassy9/21/2010
  Q: Ajay, I have already asked u a question regarding a space in my first name. I have approached ...
  A: As India is a sovereign country, any guidelines of its representative The Indian Embassy are not ...
GREEN CARD FOR MY DAD9/21/2010
  Q: My Mom and dad used to visit us here every 6 months. Now that they can't travel due to old age, ...
  A: It appears that your Dad and abandoned his LPR (lawful permanent resident) status. Assuming that you ...
Multiple H1B9/21/2010
  Q: Can an individual have multiple H1B s, if so who will run his/her pay roll. Thanks ANSWER: Hi, H1B ...
  A: If you will work for the second employer concurrently with the original employer, the second ...
COS to H19/21/2010
  Q: I got my L1 stamped on 30 Oct 2007 and also applied for H1 during April 2008 when I was in India. On ...
  A: You cannot request "extension of H1B status" since you are not currently in H1B status, but there is ...
Immigration visa-US in F4 but not immigrating9/21/2010
  Q: My brother-in law has filed petition in 1999 and immigration file has already open but question is ...
  A: You can request the petitioner to send letter to the USCIS revoking the I-130 petition. Also, if ...
Multiple H1B9/20/2010
  Q: Can an individual have multiple H1B s, if so who will run his/her pay roll. Thanks
  A: H1B status is employer specific. Thus, you can work for an employer only if the employer has ...
I-130 for spouse9/20/2010
  Q: i am uscitizen how do i process for my wife in india and howlong it will take after i file
  A: An I-130 petition should be properly prepared and filed for your wife: ...
I-130 filed and priority date current in F4 category9/18/2010
  Q: my brother has filed I-130 on April 30th 2001 and received receipt # wac-01-258-50723 after 4 years ...
  A: I assume that you are presently in the U.S. If so, adjustment of status application can be filed now ...
I-130 denial9/18/2010
  Q: I filed for my sister in 2005, who resides in INDIA . I received letter to submit evidence. I ...
  A: Yes, another I-130 should be filed. However, you will not be able to maintain the earlier priority ...
Amending Passport9/17/2010
  Q: I need a piece of advice, if possible. Here is the situation: Today I went for my second H-1B ...
  A: Revising the passport is the easier option. Contact the nearest consulate of your home country, ...
I-130 filed and applying for B1/B29/17/2010
  Q: CAN THE WIFE OF A JAMAICAN (MAN) HUSBAND BE FILED FOR WITHOUT HIM ASSISTING OR SIGNING ANY ...
  A: Visitor visa status does not allow for intention to immigrate to the U.S. Thus, normally the ...
processing time and priority dates9/16/2010
  Q: i was looking at the uscis.gov webster and i was surprised to see that processing time for the kids ...
  A: Children 21 or over of permanent residents is F2B category. And siblings of U.S. citizen is F4 ...
F1 change of status9/16/2010
  Q: My friend has a pending B2-F1 COS application. She does not know if this application will go ...
  A: You are correct in your assumption that if your friend physically departs the U.S. the change of ...
F2 visa and pregnancy9/16/2010
  Q: Greetings to you Sir! My husband is on F1 visa and I got my F2 visa till 2012. I went to stay with ...
  A: If your husband is maintaining his F1 status (he is a full-time student, for example), then there ...
I-130 multiple filings9/15/2010
  Q: I have a question regarding to my case ( immigration to US) . In 2008 my sister , who is a citizen ...
  A: It's optional to inform the USCIS about the newer petition when responding to RFE about the original ...
Planning on getting married9/15/2010
  Q: Hello can you please help me im a Us Citizen currently living in Ecuador for the past year and a ...
  A: A visitor visa is not appropriate, as it does not allow for intention to immigrate to the U.S. or to ...
I-130 multiple filings9/15/2010
  Q: I have a question regarding to my case ( immigration to US) . In 2008 my sister , who is a citizen ...
  A: The USCIS has issued an RFE (request for evidence) on the sponsorship through your sister in the F4 ...
Conditional Resident9/14/2010
  Q: I am having a two years green card expired in 1994, what is the right process to be be renewed or ...
  A: It appears that you have a conditional resident card valid for 2 years based on marriage to a U.S. ...
H1B Approved & COS Denied9/14/2010
  Q: I am currently on OPT Extension which is valid until 01/11/2011. I recently applied for H1. I got an ...
  A: Since the H1B approval notice (Form I-797) states that change of status (COS) was not granted, you ...
H1C Visa expiring9/14/2010
  Q: My H1c visa will expire on Feb.11,2011 with I-140 approved(PD Jan.13,2006).Is there any option for ...
  A: In order to remain legally in the U.S., you must maintain nonimmigrant visa status (such as H1C) at ...
H1B and employer9/14/2010
  Q: My employer have some questions regarding h1-b. I would really appreciate if you could answer them. ...
  A: The position of Accountant is a specialty occupation, and $20/hour is within the prevailing wage in ...
H1B and employer9/14/2010
  Q: My employer have some questions regarding h1-b. I would really appreciate if you could answer them. ...
  A: H1B can be filed for part-time job as long as the position still requires a relevant bachelor's ...
I-485A9/14/2010
  Q: I am in the US on a student visa. I am here for less than a year. I am 20yrs. I am married to a US ...
  A: As you have entered the U.S. legally and are married to a U.S. citizen, all sponsorship paperwork ...
visitors visa for my wedding9/13/2010
  Q: my fiance and I would like her mother to be here for our wedding, the problem is that she is in the ...
  A: Your future mother-in-law should apply at the nearest U.S. Consulate for a visitor visa. It can take ...
H-1B - premium processing and stamping9/12/2010
  Q: In case of first H1, if one can only start job on Oct 01 then what is the advantage of premium ...
  A: We can prepare TN petition as well. If the H1B petition is filed before the visa cap is reached, it ...
H-1B - premium processing and stamping9/12/2010
  Q: In case of first H1, if one can only start job on Oct 01 then what is the advantage of premium ...
  A: As you will be subject to the visa cap, H1B should be filed soon, but we cannot put an earlier start ...
H-1B - premium processing and stamping9/12/2010
  Q: In case of first H1, if one can only start job on Oct 01 then what is the advantage of premium ...
  A: There is no particular advantage in filing through premium processing, since inclusion within the ...
J-1 not subject to sec 212e married US Citizen9/11/2010
  Q: I am filing for my wife, i130 and i485 now. I just saw on here visa bearer is not subject to section ...
  A: Filing Form I-131 is optional, but in any event even with issuance of advance parole document ...
J-1 not subject to sec 212e married US Citizen9/11/2010
  Q: I am filing for my wife, i130 and i485 now. I just saw on here visa bearer is not subject to section ...
  A: Yes, there is no problem with sponsorship even though there has been violation of status due to a ...
J-1 not subject to sec 212e married US Citizen9/11/2010
  Q: I am filing for my wife, i130 and i485 now. I just saw on here visa bearer is not subject to section ...
  A: I am assuming that you are a U.S. citizen. Since your wife initially entered the U.S. legally, and ...
Deferred prosecution for retail theft/Immigration issues9/10/2010
  Q: I have been given a ticket at a mall for an accidental nonbilling of an item.There was no,arrest or ...
  A: Since you were never arrested, this appears to only be an administrative matter. I do recommend that ...
L1 to H1B Change of Status9/9/2010
  Q: I’m currently on L1 for a company A and another company B is going to sponsor H1B for me with COS ...
  A: You can hold only one nonimmigrant visa status in the U.S. at one time, and if the H1B through Co. B ...
Changing employers on H1-B after I-140 is approved9/9/2010
  Q: I am on an extended H1-B (7th year) and my I-140 has been approved (priority date Jan 2009). With no ...
  A: If you change employers through the new employer filing an H1B petition with the USCIS requesting ...
Changing employers on H1-B after I-140 is approved9/8/2010
  Q: I am on an extended H1-B (7th year) and my I-140 has been approved (priority date Jan 2009). With no ...
  A: If you change employers, the sponsoring employer will probably revoke the I-140 petition, likely ...
F1 married to H1 applying for Greencard9/7/2010
  Q: I am studying with my F1 visa. I recently got married and my husband has H1 visa. Now, his ...
  A: Please speak with the DSO (also known as international student advisor) at your university to renew ...
H4 to B19/6/2010
  Q: I am in USA on a H4 visa, Can i change it to B1 visa if i want to do a small business. If YES, how ...
  A: B1 status, like the H4, does not allow for employment. Thus, although anyone in any status can be an ...
H1B COS and Visa Appointment9/6/2010
  Q: I hope this message finds you well. I have a question about H1B and your advice is much ...
  A: As you were granted change of status to H1B effective Oct. 01 as per the H1B approval notice (Form ...
adjustment of status while illegal9/5/2010
  Q: We came with a work visa TN and then H1B (husband's visa) our visa expired in 2004, and we stay, my ...
  A: Your husband's mother can file an immigrant petition for her son and family in the F3 category. ...
H4 to H1B9/3/2010
  Q: My wife, currently on H4, is traveling to India from Sept 12th to Nov 13th 2010. She has got an ...
  A: If an H1B petition is filed when the beneficiary is not presently in the U.S. at time of filing (or ...
$500 Fraud Prevention Fee9/3/2010
  Q: do I need to pay the $500 Fraud Prevention and Detection fee when I apply for my H1-B visa at the ...
  A: The employer filing the H1B petition is responsible for this fee, and it would have already been ...
L-2 travel without L-1?9/3/2010
  Q: Arora, If you have any experience or knowledge on my question please respond since I desperately ...
  A: I was under the impression that your husband has an unexpired visa stamp. Please note that an L1 ...
U.S. citizen married to Canadian9/2/2010
  Q: i am citizen who got married with USA citizen in USA.we are going to fill out all necessary ...
  A: All sponsorship paperwork should be filed concurrently with the USCIS such as I-130, I-485, I-765, ...
K1 Two Year Meeting Requirement9/2/2010
  Q: My fiance and I are looking at the K1 visa process because we plan to be married next year, I am ...
  A: Perhaps you used your credit card to pay for the trip or related expenses, or perhaps you exchanged ...
I-94 no EOS note and marriage to USC9/1/2010
  Q: I came on a tourist visa and overstayed. Now I am married to US citizen. On my I 94 there is a note ...
  A: Since adjustment of status (AOS) is different than EOS, it is OK for you to be sponsored and adjust ...
Fiancee Affidavit of Support?8/31/2010
  Q: I am currently engaged to a US citizen, but I am a UK citizen, we're hoping to be married next year ...
  A: If your fiancee is residing with her parents, they can file I-864A and all incomes can be combined ...
L1B versus H1B8/30/2010
  Q: I had recently gone to USA ON L1 to work for American branch of Company ABC. At the immigration , ...
  A: L1 does not generally allow for working at client site even though you will still remain on Company ...
Naturalization and marriage to US citizen8/29/2010
  Q: I am preparing paper work for naturalization. I married to US citizen and according to a guide ...
  A: In our experience, irrespective of the instructions on the N400 application, there is no actual ...
L1 to H1 COS - 20118/28/2010
  Q: I am currently in US on L1 and have an approved H1B petition with COS effective from Oct 1 2010. Is ...
  A: You will automatically be in H1B status on Oct. 1, 2010 and will no longer be in L1 status. The ...
I-130 and I-485 after I-94 expiration8/27/2010
  Q: Came to US under Visa Waiver Program in August of 2004 to met my natural birth mother and sister. I ...
  A: Either your mother or sister can file I-130 petition for you. Information about family sponsorship ...
L1 A Visa ' Not Clearly Approvable' - Reapplying on L1B8/26/2010
  Q: I recently appeared for L1A visa (blanket petition) at Delhi Consulate. I already have travelled to ...
  A: Information about the L1B category is here: ...
Re entry in USA on B2 visa8/26/2010
  Q: My Mother was issued a USA visa in Feb 2007 and came to USA in Apr 07 and we applied for a extension ...
  A: Spending so much time in the U.S. in visitor visa status can result in more detailed questions at ...
Advance Parole8/26/2010
  Q: Good morning. We are pending for approval of I-485 since July 2007. We are waiting for visa ...
  A: Advance parole is always issued without any problems whatsoever based on pending I-485...there does ...
F1 married to permanent resident8/25/2010
  Q: i am an f1 student whose visa hasn't expired. I fell in love and got married to a permaent resident, ...
  A: Your spouse can sponsor you in the F2A category by filing the appropriate petition with the USCIS. ...
Sponsoring parents8/25/2010
  Q: I am a green card hold and want to apply for my parents (who have working visa). Can I do it now or ...
  A: You must be a U.S. citizen to sponsor parents: www.h1b1.com/sponsor.htm You must file affidavit of ...
Marriage to U.S. citizen8/24/2010
  Q: oh she has a 5 yr old boy to wt her.
  A: Your wife and stepchild can adjust status in the U.S. without having to depart the U.S. based on ...
International Student and immigration8/24/2010
  Q: Arora. I am currently an international student on an F-1 Visa. My question is: Can I apply for a ...
  A: F1 status does not allow for intention to immigrate to the U.S. You cannot be sponsored by your ...
L1B to H1B--change of status8/24/2010
  Q: I have few H1 questions if you could answer and shed some light.Here is the scenario. 1.I applied ...
  A: I realize that you never were in H1B status earlier (you only had H1B approval, and no further ...
Marriage to U.S. citizen8/23/2010
  Q: ive got a question,if my girlfriend come from england to the usa wt only a passport and we got ...
  A: Upon marriage all sponsorship paperwork can be filed concurrently and your wife can adjust status in ...
Affidavit of Support8/23/2010
  Q: I've been doing a lot of research online regarding sponsoring an alien after filing petition for ...
  A: Part-time job may be enough if you earn enough income. The following is helpful: ...
L1B to H1B--change of status8/23/2010
  Q: I have few H1 questions if you could answer and shed some light.Here is the scenario. 1.I applied ...
  A: H1B status is employer specific. XYZ will file new H1B petition requesting change of status from L1B ...
L1B to H1B--change of status8/23/2010
  Q: I have few H1 questions if you could answer and shed some light.Here is the scenario. 1.I applied ...
  A: As you are currently in L1B status, XYZ will file H1B petition for you requesting change of status ...
L1B Extension Stamping8/20/2010
  Q: My L1B visa extension got approved by USCIS in August. I need to go to India for a vacation in ...
  A: If you follow the Consulate's instructions and take documentation as per appointment notice issued ...
Traveling on OPT8/19/2010
  Q: Arora, I have recently completed my MBA, and I am on my OPT status in US. My EAD runs till June ...
  A: It is safe to travel since you are maintaining your F1 status and have not violated this status in ...
L1 Visa after B1 Visa rejection8/19/2010
  Q: My B1 Visa got rejected in May'10, the Visa counsellor did not provide me any reason & now I have ...
  A: When the USCIS approves the L1 petition, the Consulate is likely to issue the L1 visa stamp in order ...
Different names on green card and passport8/17/2010
  Q: My case was actually held up for a couple of days after the interview before it was approved, as my ...
  A: You cannot enter on advance parole document since I-485 has been approved. If you travel prior to ...
B1 Visa for me and Visitor visa for my family8/17/2010
  Q: I am travelling to US on a business visit for 2 weeks. I wish to take my spouse and my kid along ...
  A: You can apply for B1 and your family can apply for B2 visas simultaneously. There is no particular ...
H4 and L1 Visa8/16/2010
  Q: My wife holds H4 visa and L1 visa. She is now in US in her H4 Visa. If her employer wants her back ...
  A: She should depart the U.S. and enter using unexpired L1 visa stamp so that she is issued an I-94 at ...
H1 application while I-539 cos H4 pending8/16/2010
  Q: I was on H-1 and got laid off on Friday. I filed for COS to H4 online on the same day and got the ...
  A: You are legally in the U.S. However, as you are no longer currently maintaining H1B status, you ...
L1A clock reset8/16/2010
  Q: I left USA on 31st Jan 2010 after staying there for 5 years (on L1A). Now I do not plan to go back ...
  A: You can visit for short periods, typically about a month or less without any problems. If you visit ...
I-130 filled and been approved8/15/2010
  Q: Over the last 2 years i have visited the USA around 5 times using the vwp, in march 2009 my mother ...
  A: As any visitor to the U.S. you may be asked about the purpose of your entry to the U.S. and whether ...
I-130 filled and been approved8/14/2010
  Q: Over the last 2 years i have visited the USA around 5 times using the vwp, in march 2009 my mother ...
  A: The visa waiver program does not allow for intention to immigrate to the U.S. Thus, you could be ...
F1 violation of status8/14/2010
  Q: i graduated with my masters back in 2007. I received my OPT and then i applied for a second masters ...
  A: In order to extend or change nonimmmigrant visa status within the U.S., you would need to be ...
priority date8/14/2010
  Q: what is the priority date are being processed right now?i belong to f2b category,,and my priority ...
  A: For the month of September, 2010, which is the latest visa bulletin available at ...
E-filing8/13/2010
  Q: Would you recommend using E-filing with USCIS? I have heard horror stories where the documents sent ...
  A: There is no advantage in e-filing, as the supporting documents have to be mailed in any event. It is ...
Marriage to permanent resident8/13/2010
  Q: my daughter got a marriage proposal with a guy staying in usa and he is ready to get greencard ...
  A: If the bridegroom's adjustment of status application is approved before he is able to marry (in ...
J1 program termination8/13/2010
  Q: Good day, I am a student and I have a J1 Visa for my internship that is good until October 25 2010, ...
  A: Since maintaining J1 status is dependent upon program continuation as per your Form DS-2019, you are ...
H1B latest date to file8/11/2010
  Q: My opt will expire on Jan 11, 2011. I was wondering what is the latest date h1-b( assuming the ...
  A: Since nobody can predict when the visa cap will be reached, it is a good idea to file H1B petition ...
married to an immigrant but separated8/11/2010
  Q: I have been married for 5 years now but have been separated for about 2yrs. I signed paperwork for ...
  A: If you are not in a bonafide marriage, you should not sponsor your spouse. I recommend contacting ...
H1B to H48/11/2010
  Q: I am currently on H1B visa and plan to quit my job by October since I will be getting married and ...
  A: H1B visa status requires employment with the H1B employer. However, there is a 10-day grace period ...
245i8/10/2010
  Q: My brother petition (under 245i) is current this month but they never sent us the approval notice. ...
  A: You do not need a formal letter from the NVC, as the consular processing abroad initiated through ...
marrying before or after citizenship application8/10/2010
  Q: I am now a legal permanent resident and will apply for citizenship soon. I would like to get married ...
  A: You can get married anytime. However, as you are about to apply for naturalization soon, there is no ...
Can L2 work when L1 applicant is abroad8/10/2010
  Q: Say I am a L1 visa holder and my spouse gets an L2. After 6 months my company asks me to move back ...
  A: The L2 spouse can continue to reside legally in the U.S. even if the L1 spouse spends much of his or ...
J-1 Married to US Citizen8/9/2010
  Q: I am a J-1 student not subject to two-year rule. I have the intention of getting married to a US ...
  A: Since you are not subject to the 2-year home country requirement, after marriage all sponsorship ...
RE-entry US with Green card8/9/2010
  Q: Arora here is my case and i hope you can help me. I'm a green card holder since 2008. i live in US ...
  A: You may indeed be questioned about whether you have abandoned your residence in the U.S. and thus ...
I-140 Questions8/8/2010
  Q: Arora, Please forgive me for the endless series of questions in my follow-up. I completely ...
  A: "Enough to pay salary" is a better response than $0.00. The position should not be a new position, ...
I-485 approved--priority date is current8/8/2010
  Q: My case is simple and similar to many others. EB2 category, I-140 is approved in 2006, I-485 was ...
  A: If your address has not changed (or if you have notified USCIS if it has) no action is required. The ...
I-140 Questions8/8/2010
  Q: Arora, Thanks a lot for your time and also for answering my previous questions about my PERM!! ...
  A: Since the employer is not a for-profit company, document such as annual budget is sufficient to show ...
H1B specialty occupation8/8/2010
  Q: I`m a mortgage underwriter working with a BPO in india.Got an offer from a US bank to underwrite for ...
  A: Most positions in mortgage underwriting do not require at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant ...
F1 married to H1 applying for Greencard8/8/2010
  Q: I am studying with my F1 visa. I recently got married and my husband has H1 visa. Now, his ...
  A: You are automatically included in your husband's GC process without any action required on your ...
Tourist visa8/7/2010
  Q: I am currently holding a B2 visa and would like to enroll in certificate programs like ...
  A: The USCIS discourages changing status from visitor to F1 student status within the U.S. In order to ...
Marriage to U.S. Citizen8/6/2010
  Q: I need some answers on legally being in the United States. Here's my story. My wife and myself got ...
  A: You entered on B2 visa, but you were issued I-94 at time of entry to the U.S. This is a white card ...
L1A to Green card8/5/2010
  Q: I work as a Project manager for a big company in L1A visa in us. I am interested in applying for ...
  A: Your L1A employer can file I-140 Petition for Immigrant Worker for you in the EB1 category. The EB1 ...
Marriage to U.S. Citizen8/4/2010
  Q: I need some answers on legally being in the United States. Here's my story. My wife and myself got ...
  A: Yes, those are the forms filed concurrently with the USCIS, but there are also supporting documents ...
Birth in the US for L1B holder8/4/2010
  Q: Both my wife and I are Canadian citizens. I am an L1B holder, but my wife is not nor does she ...
  A: At time of your wife's entry to the U.S. she will ask the immigration inspector for L2 stamp in her ...
245i and citizenship (naturalization)8/4/2010
  Q: I got my green card with the 245-I application, My ex husband was the applicant and I obtained thrum ...
  A: As you have been a permanent resident for 5 years, you are eligible to apply for naturalization even ...
245i8/3/2010
  Q: My brother petition (under 245i) is current this month but they never sent us the approval notice. ...
  A: If the priority date is current for the 4th family preference category, I-485 should be filed with ...
L1 A Rejected, now applying H1B8/2/2010
  Q: I was in US for past 2.5 years with L1B, I came to india at End of April 2010. My company applied ...
  A: You should be familiar with the contents of the H1B petition filed by the USCIS such as job title, ...
Social Security8/2/2010
  Q: my H1B petition has been approved and I am scheduled for an interview at the US consulatate in my ...
  A: The probability of the Consulate issuing the H1B visa stamp is much higher than for B1/B2 (tourist) ...
L1 A Rejected, now applying H1B7/31/2010
  Q: I was in US for past 2.5 years with L1B, I came to india at End of April 2010. My company applied ...
  A: L1A is for managers and executives, whereas L1B status is for "specialized knowledge" workers only. ...
Changing visa status B1/B2 to F17/31/2010
  Q: During the period 1994-98 I was an international student in the US; graduated with a bachelor degree ...
  A: As the USCIS no longer recommends changing status from visitor to student, my advice is to apply to ...
L1B Blanket rejected and applying for L1B Individual7/31/2010
  Q: My employer had applied for L1 visa under blanket petition and I was refused Visa on Jul-2010 under ...
  A: I recommend that your employer file H1B petition for you. If the employer files another L1B, the ...
Starting a US corporation7/30/2010
  Q: Is it legal for a foreign national on a student visa to start a US corporation and get paid through ...
  A: Anyone in any status can be an investor in a company. However, you cannot be employed (and this ...
J1 visa status to F17/29/2010
  Q: I would like to enquire regarding the non-immigrant visa.I am from Malaysia.I was under the YES ...
  A: I agree with you that since the requirement is aggregate, you do not have to be continuously ...
J1 visa status to F17/29/2010
  Q: I would like to enquire regarding the non-immigrant visa.I am from Malaysia.I was under the YES ...
  A: You can apply for F1 visa at the U.S. Consulate even though you are subject to the 2-year home ...
convert L1b to L1A7/29/2010
  Q: I have an L1B which expires in 50 days from now. My company (TCS) wants to file an L1A. Is it ...
  A: Since L1A requires employment as manager or executive for at least one year during the past 3 years, ...
discrepancy in Surname & given name7/28/2010
  Q: My full name is Kamal Sham Kumar & in my Passport issued by Govt of India Surname column is blank ...
  A: FNU stands for first name unavailable, and is quite common designation where there is no clear ...
CapGap and Employer Change7/27/2010
  Q: I am on my OPT, scheduled to end Aug 24. My current employer has filed for H1B and it is approved. ...
  A: You can work for any employer under cap-gap provisions of OPT until Oct. 01 as long as the employer ...
F2A converted to F1 family preference category7/27/2010
  Q: good day boss Ajay, i was refused to get a f2a visa last week by the us embassy here in manila, the ...
  A: It appears that the petitioner became a U.S. citizen since the initial I-130 petition filing. That ...
4th family sponsorship category and priority dates7/27/2010
  Q: my sister's petition for me and my family for 1-130 f4 category has just been approved,what is the ...
  A: The priority date (when the I-130 petition was initially filed with the USCIS, formerly the INS) ...
F2 or F1 to H1B7/26/2010
  Q: My husband is going to go to US on F1 for an MBA in FALL 2011. I have already done a MS from US in ...
  A: If you find a suitable job offer in the U.S. where the employer is willing to file an H1B petition ...
H1B 7th Year Extension7/25/2010
  Q: Ajay, I have the following question with regards to my H1B Visa. I am currently on the 3rd year of ...
  A: The GC process is independent of your current nonimmigrant visa status. Since H visa status allows ...
Marriage sponsorship procedure7/25/2010
  Q: I married my wife last month while she was on a tourist visa. It was a spur of the moment thing. She ...
  A: Yes, the I-130 can be filed even while she is in the U.S. Incidentally, she can also adjust status ...
Marriage sponsorship procedure7/25/2010
  Q: I married my wife last month while she was on a tourist visa. It was a spur of the moment thing. She ...
  A: Yes, the NVC will submit instructions as to the appointment procedure with the U.S. Consulate and ...
Marriage to U.S. Citizen7/23/2010
  Q: I am remarrying my ex-husband who is an Indian Citizen, I am US citizen. However, I am planning on ...
  A: If you divorced your first husband, and then obtained U.S. citizenship through marriage to your new ...
H4 to H1 transfer7/23/2010
  Q: My son is currently US on H4 since 2007 when he joined MBA program. Prior to that he worked in US ...
  A: Your son is not subject to the visa cap since he held H1B status within the past six years. He can ...
H1B for real estate position?7/23/2010
  Q: I did my B. Arch in India and then completed my masters in architecture in US. After that I worked ...
  A: H1B petition requires filing for a specialty occupation, i.e., an occupation which requires the ...
F1 Visa and LLC with offshoring7/22/2010
  Q: A friend and I are planning to register one of our website/ideas as an LLC as it involves buying and ...
  A: Anyone in any status can own a company in the U.S. and be a passive investor, etc. However, F1 ...
Visa for mother in law7/22/2010
  Q: I need to find out how to bring my Russian mother in law to the USA for a visit. Here is a little ...
  A: Since it is extremely unlikely that the U.S. Consulate in Russia will issue a visitor visa to your ...
H4 to H1B (while H4 is under extension)7/22/2010
  Q: I'm currently On H4 status and it is filed for extension along with my spouse's H1-B.Recently i got ...
  A: There is no problem in changing status from H4 to H1B if the I-94 in connection with H4 has not yet ...
H4 extension while H1B transfer to another employer7/21/2010
  Q: I want to know the procedure for H4 extension/transfer for my wife. I am i an situation that my ...
  A: H4 application is signed by the dependent, and it can be submitted concurrently with the H1B ...
H1B Approval and Proof7/21/2010
  Q: I currently live and work as a contractor in the US under a E-2 visa. I'm due to be come an ...
  A: If the H1B approval notice (Form I-797) states that you have been granted "change of status", then ...
F-1 Student and employment7/21/2010
  Q: I am currently an F-1 student and do not have any off campus work authorization. I was wondering if ...
  A: It is OK to be an investor in a company. However, you should not be involved in day-to-day ...
CSPA7/21/2010
  Q: Does the CSPA allows us to substract the time taken in processing the I-130 petition filed by our ...
  A: Your interpretation is correct. For example, if you are 22 years old, and the time taken to process ...
H1b extension and transfer7/19/2010
  Q: My H1b Visa is Filed at USICS. I have the file number also. 1. Can I change employer before my H1B ...
  A: First scenario: Co. B can file H1B petition requesting extension of your status. It is best if this ...
K1 or K37/19/2010
  Q: Attorney Ajay, Thanks for your answer to my earlier question. I have two more questions 1. My ...
  A: I would recommend K1. A formal engagement is not required, as long as there is an intention to marry ...
H1 transfer approved without I-947/16/2010
  Q: I am working for company A, I applied for H1 transfer through company B.I submitted all the required ...
  A: Since grant of extension of status (EOS) requires that you have been in the U.S. when Co. B filed ...
Follow to join visa for spouse7/15/2010
  Q: I was granted an employment based visa (EB3) last year, a few months after i had gotten married. ...
  A: I recommend that I-824 http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-824.pdf be filed with the USCIS and upon ...
I-140 priority date current and I-4857/14/2010
  Q: I had approval on my I140 on May 30/2006 and in July/2007 I sent my I485(it was current date back on ...
  A: EAD allows you to work anywhere. However, I recommend that you also continue to work for the ...
H1B visa transfer7/14/2010
  Q: I am on H1b visa . My visa is going to expire.I need to transfer my visa and i have pending ...
  A: H1B petition through Co. B can be filed anytime (whether you are in the U.S. or not) and it should ...
L1 to J27/14/2010
  Q: I am presently in the US working for a company X on L1B visa and my spouse is in the US on J1 visa. ...
  A: To change status from L1B to J2 within the U.S., Form I-539 must be properly filed with the USCIS: ...
Employers change of address7/14/2010
  Q: My Employer moved to a different address in the same city and state, Where as my LCA and I-129 ...
  A: Since your place of employment is in the same metropolitan area, a new LCA and amended H1B petition ...
H1B visa transfer7/13/2010
  Q: I am on H1b visa . My visa is going to expire.I need to transfer my visa and i have pending ...
  A: To be granted extension of status by the USCIS within the U.S., you would need to submit recent pay ...
I-7977/13/2010
  Q: hi i just receive a I-797 notice of action and i need to know what does it mean?
  A: The I-797 is issued by the USCIS on the basis of the filing of a petition or application. It is ...
Adjustment of Status7/12/2010
  Q: My wife (US citizen) and I have been married for about 6 months now. I came to the US on an F-1 visa ...
  A: Your marriage remains legal and valid even if you reside in separate countries. K1 visa category is ...
Visitor visa status extension7/12/2010
  Q: When I entered America having B1 visa for on the job training, I was allowed to stay for 3months. ...
  A: You are able to remain legally in the U.S. until Nov. 18, since the application was filed prior to ...
Mother-in-Law Visa Options7/12/2010
  Q: My wife is near completing her 2-year conditional Green Card to permanent Green Card Process and has ...
  A: Since your wife can sponsor a parent only when she becomes a U.S. citizen, the mother should apply ...
I-140 priority date current and I-4857/12/2010
  Q: I had approval on my I140 on May 30/2006 and in July/2007 I sent my I485(it was current date back on ...
  A: As the priority date (PD) was current only for one month in July, 2007, the USCIS allowed filing of ...
I-140 priority date current and I-4857/11/2010
  Q: I had approval on my I140 on May 30/2006 and in July/2007 I sent my I485(it was current date back on ...
  A: The I-485 will be automatically approved only if the priority date is current. Further information ...
Change of Status from H1B to F17/10/2010
  Q: I am in USA on h1b visa but i don't have any project so my payroll is not running from past 4-5 ...
  A: In order to change from one nonimmigrant status to another within the U.S., you need to show that ...
F1 to GC marriage to US Citizen7/10/2010
  Q: I entered US under F1 visa. I have been here for four years and got married to US citizen and we ...
  A: You are currently in F1 student status, but you will be violating this status if you discontinue ...
GC through student visa7/10/2010
  Q: I would like to know if a student visa after course completion can apply for the green card or if ...
  A: If you are sponsored by an employer in the U.S. for PERM as per www.h1b1.com/laborcert.htm you will ...
Fiance visa and marriage7/9/2010
  Q: Normally, how long does it take for fiance visa to be granted? I understand that applicant and the ...
  A: Allow several months for the I-129F petition filed by the U.S. citizen fiance to be approved by the ...
Renewed H1B valid but no visa stamp7/9/2010
  Q: My situation is that I have worked in the US for 2 yrs and while my stay in the US I changed my ...
  A: As the new employer is not requesting extension of status when filing H1B petition, recent pay stubs ...
H1B from J1 and change of status7/9/2010
  Q: I'm on J1 visa which expires on 23rd July & I got the waiver too.I got H1B visa sponsor but my que. ...
  A: Since there is normally only a 30-day grace period in J1 status, and since I am assuming that the ...
visitor visa for my spouse7/8/2010
  Q: I'm a U.S. citizen currently living and working in Honduras. I am planning to get married to a ...
  A: U.S. Consulates will typically issue a visitor visa if the applicant has not evinced an intention to ...
H1 B transfer while outside USA7/8/2010
  Q: I have a H1 B right now with company A and company B has given be a better offer, so I would like to ...
  A: Co. B can file H1B for you irrespective of whether or not you are in the U.S. at time of filing or ...
Renewed H1B valid but no visa stamp7/8/2010
  Q: My situation is that I have worked in the US for 2 yrs and while my stay in the US I changed my ...
  A: The new employer should file H1B petition for you. Upon approval by the USCIS, you should apply for ...
immigration sec. 245(i)7/7/2010
  Q: iam us citizen and i have filed pitition for my brother back in 2003 we have recieved priority date ...
  A: If your brother will file adjustment of status under sec. 245(i) based on the F4 petition that you ...
immigration sec. 245(i)7/7/2010
  Q: iam us citizen and i have filed pitition for my brother back in 2003 we have recieved priority date ...
  A: Since it appears that either an application for labor certification or immigrant petition was filed ...
K-1 Divorce7/6/2010
  Q: My friend came to this country 9 years ago with her son as K-1 and K-2. They got the social security ...
  A: Your friend would have been required to marry her fiance within 90 days of entry to the U.S., and ...
Husband's status7/5/2010
  Q: I have been with my husband for 8 1/2 years and been married for 5 years, we have two kids together, ...
  A: Unfortunately, since your husband entered the U.S. illegally, he will be unable to adjust status in ...
Question about PERM7/3/2010
  Q: Arora, Thank you for reading my message!! Also, thank you for answering my previous query about, ...
  A: In general, it is best to keep the qualifying requirements to a minimum in order to make the ...
H Visa limit for 6 years7/2/2010
  Q: My wife was on H1B visa for more than 6 years (she dropped out of the green card process and ...
  A: The general rule is that an individual can spend 6 years in H1B status plus 6 years in H4 staus. ...
Immigration visa or green card through family7/1/2010
  Q: I am 29 years old married, having husband and two kids elder son is 7 yrs and younger son is 1 years ...
  A: If your brother is a U.S. citizen, he can sponsor you and your spouse/children in the 4th family ...
Prevailing Wage, PERM and I-1407/1/2010
  Q: Arora, Thanks a lot for reading my message!! The prevailing wage for my PERM had a validity period ...
  A: You can rely on the prevailing wage. Since the offered wage is not a lesser amount than the ...
PERM transfer to different location6/29/2010
  Q: I am working in a hospital. My perm has been approved. My I 140 has not been filed yet. Can I ...
  A: The recruitment for U.S. workers that was conducted as part of PERM preparation was conducted for a ...
cross chargeability6/29/2010
  Q: My brother is US citizen. I am about to marry a Japanese girl. Can I use cross chargeability? How ...
  A: Yes, cross-chargeability will apply in employer sponsorship case as well once you are married. EB2 ...
cross chargeability6/29/2010
  Q: My brother is US citizen. I am about to marry a Japanese girl. Can I use cross chargeability? How ...
  A: Yes, cross-chargeability will work. However, the visa availability date in the 4th family preference ...
H4 Visa6/29/2010
  Q: Our Marriage was a Court Marriage and we do not have Marriage Photos or Invite. But we do have the ...
  A: Marriage certificate is required as evidence of legal marriage. Marriage photos and marriage ...
EAD (contd)6/28/2010
  Q: Arora, (again!) I've been told my previous question was too long to be answered by the service. So ...
  A: Correct, there is no practical way to obtain work permit before you start job hunting. You require ...
EAD6/27/2010
  Q: Arora, (again!) I've been told my previous question was too long to be answered by the service. So ...
  A: Employment authorization in the context of your email is obtained through the filing by the U.S. ...
H1B transfer issue6/27/2010
  Q: i have working on h1b with compant A. i got a job offer from company B ( a consulting company) for a ...
  A: Co. B has no valid claim against you, and thus is extremely unlikely to file a lawsuit. Also note ...
L1 to B16/25/2010
  Q: I'm currently in US on L1b.My employer just confirmed that i'll have to move back to India, as ...
  A: You can change status from L1B to B2 (visitor visa status). It is important for the change of status ...
H1B visa for real estate agent6/23/2010
  Q: I am currently in my OPT that will expire in 7 Oct, and I am applying for an H1B visa as a marketing ...
  A: H1B regulations state that the offered position be a specialty occupation requiring completion of a ...
Family based immigration6/22/2010
  Q: My mother who is a citizen filed I130 for me in 2003. I entered US in 2002 using H1 visa. My H1 visa ...
  A: As your mother sponsored you after April 30, 2001, you are not covered under sec. 245(i). Thus, you ...
4th family sponsorship category6/21/2010
  Q: My brother has been living in America for 4 years and he will get the American nationality within ...
  A: Once your brother is a U.S. citizen, he can sponsor you (along with your family) in the 4th family ...
J1 canidate in USA6/21/2010
  Q: i have a canidate whose visa is going to expire in sept can you help to stay back there thanks
  A: If you are not subject to the two-year home country requirement, you can change status to visitor ...
Marriage to U.S. Citizen6/20/2010
  Q: Can a person that came to the United Stated legally on a visa, but stayed after it expired, (thus ...
  A: Yes, since you initially entered the U.S. legally (even though I-94 has expired), all sponsorship ...
H1B transfer in parallel6/19/2010
  Q: I am working for mechanical consulting firm A and they placed me in one of their client. I got offer ...
  A: As you are still currently employed by Co. A., Co. C should file H1B petition for you before Co. A ...
H-1B transfer and withdraw I-4856/19/2010
  Q: Arora, My husband's employer filed for green card under EB1 (OR) category. I-140 got approved and ...
  A: If the employer that filed the EB1 petition is still offering your husband permanent employment upon ...
H1B to F1 to I1406/18/2010
  Q: came as a student in July 2000 and spent 4 years doing my BS from PSU. Have been in job since June ...
  A: I-140 must be filed within 180 days of certification of PERM (also known as application for labor ...
L1 to H1 visa6/18/2010
  Q: I am currently in USA on L1B visa for Company A. I got an employment offer from company B, but they ...
  A: Co. B would file H1B petition for you. Your signature is not required anywhere on the H1B petition ...
Extension of I946/17/2010
  Q: I am on H4 visa accompanying my husband who's on H1. His I94 as well as visa is valid upto September ...
  A: An application to extend your H4 status should be filed with the USCIS prior to expiration of your ...
adjustment of status6/17/2010
  Q: my girlfriend entered USA from Colombia a few years ago on a fiancee visa. She married her US ...
  A: Even though your fiance initially married the original sponsor of the fiance(e) petition within 90 ...
J2 to H4 to H1B6/15/2010
  Q: I am currently on J2 visa that will expired on june 30th 2010. I already have my H4 starting from ...
  A: Once EAD expires on June 30, you cannot be employed again until Oct. 01, when H1B status takes ...
Fiancee Visa6/15/2010
  Q: I am a Canadian citizen and engaged to an American citizen. I have previously lived in the U.S. ...
  A: Your earlier stay in the U.S. will be no impact on the fiancee visa process. Once the K1 petition ...
US Citizen divorcing Permanent Resident6/13/2010
  Q: I am a Naturalized US Citizen and sponsored my husband when I was a permanent resident in 2003. He ...
  A: If you divorce, your husband would now need to wait 5 years after obtaining permanent resident ...
L1 Visa6/12/2010
  Q: My employer is for an L1 Visa for me. Im married 2 years back and i am applied for divorce on Mutual ...
  A: If your name legally changes after divorce and/or marriage, I recommend that you obtain a notation ...
Family Based Petition stauts change6/11/2010
  Q: My question is related to Family based petition for sibling. My wife is USC and she want to bring ...
  A: Your wife can sponsor now in F4 family category. Either parent, when a U.S. citizen, can sponsor in ...
Family Based Petition change6/11/2010
  Q: My question is related to Family based petition for sibling. My wife is USC and she want to bring ...
  A: Your wife can sponsor her siblings in the F4 category. Similarly, her parents can sponsor their ...
OPT & H-1B after Master's degree6/9/2010
  Q: Ajay K. Arora, I am in H-1B status (extended once, but never gone out of US after my bachelor's) ...
  A: You will obtain new OPT after graduating from master's course of study. However, as a general rule ...
EB1 ET Greencard6/9/2010
  Q: Greetings! My husband and I used to work in the US on H-1B Visa’s and our GC was also filed through ...
  A: The EAD application is signed and filed by the applicant who either entered the U.S. on L2 visa ...
EB1 ET Greencard6/9/2010
  Q: Greetings! My husband and I used to work in the US on H-1B Visa’s and our GC was also filed through ...
  A: The EB1 can be filed directly by the employer without any requirement to file L1. After approval of ...
L1 to H1 and GC6/8/2010
  Q: I am currently in L1 visa (currently running 5.5 yr out of 7 yrs). I had filed H1 visa in 2008 and ...
  A: You can activate H1B status by applying for H1B visa stamp at a U.S. Consulate in your home country ...
Green card through parents6/7/2010
  Q: Mr. Arora, I am 23 years old, graduated from college in the US this year, and I am currently still ...
  A: Since your parents are green card holders, they can sponsor you in the 2nd family preference ...
Green card6/7/2010
  Q: We moved from Northern Ireland to California in March. My husband has a job with a company here and ...
  A: There is no problem if you apply for DV (green card) lottery. Indeed, both you and your husband can ...
Re-entering U.S after staying abroad for 1 year6/7/2010
  Q: My mom-in-law is 79 years old. she is Green card holder. She went to India on 5/26/2009. She wants ...
  A: I am assuming that your mother-in-law does not have re-entry permit. Thus, unless she has a ...
U.S. Citizen sponsoring Parent6/6/2010
  Q: I've been an US Citizen since 2001. I'm looking to apply for a green card for my mom who's ...
  A: Since your parent is not currently in the U.S., you can only an I-130 petition with the USCIS at ...
H1B transfer in parallel6/4/2010
  Q: I am working for mechanical consulting firm A and they placed me in one of their client. I got offer ...
  A: If there is an RFE received by Co. B., then copy of the RFE is adequate notice that Co. B's H1B ...
H1B specialty occupation6/4/2010
  Q: I have a US masters degree in Accounting. If I got a job as a QA Analyst can the company apply for ...
  A: If the company states that the minimum requirement is a master's degree, then the prevailing wage is ...
H1B to L2 visa change6/3/2010
  Q: I am currently holding H1B visa and planning to quit job. My husband is in L1 visa, and I want to go ...
  A: Application to change status from H1B to L2 should be filed while you are still maintaining H1B ...
L1 VISA INDIVIDUAL(PREMIUM) REJECTED6/3/2010
  Q: My L1 VISA INDIVIDUAL(PREMIUM) REJECTED yesterday. the reason they gave me is I lack Project ...
  A: Your company can file L1A or L1B petition again with the USCIS anytime. The USCIS application fees ...
F1 to H1-B6/3/2010
  Q: Good night, This is a synopsis of my current situation: -- I completed my Undergraduate studies in ...
  A: The restaurant can file H1B petition for you, but the effective start date on the H1B approval ...
I-130 Petition6/2/2010
  Q: my mother who is a us citizen petition my sister who is over 21 yrs old and married, does she really ...
  A: Your mother has filed for your sister in the 3rd family preference category. Information about ...
H1b quota questions6/2/2010
  Q: 1.I understand that , H1b fresh consular petition or change of status from L1b to H1b can be applied ...
  A: The H1B petition can be filed requesting change of status even after Oct. 01, 2010 if the visa cap ...
H4>H1 221(G) ADM. PROCESSING>H46/1/2010
  Q: My last H4 visa was stamped till April 2010. But I have extension filed by my husband's employer ...
  A: It should be OK to apply for H4 visa stamp at the Consulate. Incidentally, please note that H4 ...
Can an F1 visa holder maintain his status after marrying a US citizen?6/1/2010
  Q: I am a US citizen. My fiancee is in the US on an F1 visa from Iran and has been studying here for ...
  A: Normally the immigrant petition and adjustment of status application (along with other applications ...
Adjustment of Status5/29/2010
  Q: My wife (US citizen) and I have been married for about 6 months now. I came to the US on an F-1 visa ...
  A: I suppose that you have EAD (employment authorization document) based on OPT or otherwise as result ...
RE-entry in B1 visa5/26/2010
  Q: Im came to US a month ago in B1 Visa initiated by my company and my I94 expires on July 20 and my ...
  A: You appear to have a multiple entry visa. Thus, if you depart the U.S. you can enter again on your ...
Criminal record / green card aplication5/26/2010
  Q: My girlfriend ( she is a U.S citizen ) and I ( claudio ) are making plans to get married and then ...
  A: As long as the U.S. citizen spouse is not in jail at this time (and thus unable to attend marriage ...
H1B approval date/flying back5/25/2010
  Q: 1.If my employer applies for H1b in premium processing, is it possible that the H1b effective date ...
  A: Since your L1B status expires prior to October 01, 2010, the USCIS will approve the H1B petition but ...
Renewal of expired L1 Status5/25/2010
  Q: I visited US in 2001 on B1-B2 visa with my family. Changed status to L1A to me and L2 for my family ...
  A: There is a maximum of seven years allowed in L1A status. The seven year clock starts again if one ...
U.S. citizen child sponsor Parent?5/25/2010
  Q: My sister is an unmarried non-immigrant currently residing outside US. She has a 7yr old daughter ...
  A: A U.S. citizen child can sponsor a parent when the child is 21 years of age or older. Information ...
H1B approval date/flying back5/25/2010
  Q: 1.If my employer applies for H1b in premium processing, is it possible that the H1b effective date ...
  A: Yes, you should depart the U.S. when your L1B status expires, since H1B status will not take effect ...
H1B approval date5/25/2010
  Q: 1.If my employer applies for H1b in premium processing, is it possible that the H1b effective date ...
  A: The start date on H1B approval notice will still be October 01, unless (although this is unlikely ...
Expired Green Card5/24/2010
  Q: My grandmother's green card and visa expired while she was out of the country. The reason why she ...
  A: If your grandmother is a permanent resident (green card holder), then normally any absence from the ...
L1B I-94 expiring in 4 months5/24/2010
  Q: My L1-B is valid till Jun 2011. However, my I-94 is due to expire in Sep 2010. I have the following ...
  A: Yes, you must depart the U.S. within 10 days if the I-94 expired and then the extension was denied. ...
Travel and Work5/24/2010
  Q: my petition for H1-b has been approved. Here's my situation: My husband and kids are on F-1 and F2 ...
  A: Yes, our law firm can prepare F2 to H4 application so that the dependent receives H4 status from the ...
Travel and Work5/24/2010
  Q: my petition for H1-b has been approved. Here's my situation: My husband and kids are on F-1 and F2 ...
  A: OK, since you already have unexpired B2 visa stamp in passport, go ahead and enter on existing B2 ...
Travel and Work5/24/2010
  Q: my petition for H1-b has been approved. Here's my situation: My husband and kids are on F-1 and F2 ...
  A: I recommend applying for F2 visa stamp at the nearest U.S. Consulate in your home country to enable ...
Marriage to U.S. Citizen5/24/2010
  Q: I am basically from India and from the last 8 Yrs I m residing in US and I have the US Citizenship. ...
  A: The K3 petition should be filed with the USCIS after marriage takes place as per your plans in ...
L1B I-94 expiring in 4 months5/23/2010
  Q: My L1-B is valid till Jun 2011. However, my I-94 is due to expire in Sep 2010. I have the following ...
  A: In order to remain legally in the U.S. after Sep. 2010, your company would either need to file L1B ...
EB3 to EB25/22/2010
  Q: Is there an option to upgrade the processing from EB3 to EB2 category provided we get some high ...
  A: EB3 cannot be changed to EB2 after PERM (also known as application for labor certification) is filed ...
Marriage sponsorship5/21/2010
  Q: She started her immigration process about a week ago and so far she has filled these applications: ...
  A: If the sponsoring spouse is a U.S. citizen, all applications and petitions should be filed ...
H1B stamping process after I-94 expiry5/21/2010
  Q: I'm on L1-B currently, but my I-94 is due to expire in July, 2010. A potential employer is ready to ...
  A: Due to visa cap, the employment start date on H1B approval notice issued by the USCIS will be ...
H1B Transfer when entry on B15/20/2010
  Q: Ajay, Firstly let me apprise you of my current H1-b situation. My H1-b petition was approved as of ...
  A: You are currently in B1 status, since your entry to the U.S. in B1 visa status is the "latest ...
L1 to H1 transfer questions5/20/2010
  Q: 1.Can we do L1 to H1 transfer, i.e. get a new I - 94, instead of having to go to india for stamping ...
  A: Yes, you can change status from L1 to H1B. When granted change of status by the USCIS, you will not ...
Student status after I-485 filed5/20/2010
  Q: I have an approved I140, EAD, Advance Parole and a pending I-485 that I received when I used to work ...
  A: You must be in the U.S. for advance parole to be extended. And it is true that F1 visa stamp is ...
Student status after I-485 filed5/19/2010
  Q: I have an approved I140, EAD, Advance Parole and a pending I-485 that I received when I used to work ...
  A: The green card process is not stopped (unless the employer has revoked the I-140 petition) simply ...
Aged out derivative beneficiary of approved I-1305/19/2010
  Q: My mother petitioned my sister and her children via I-130 in DEC 1991. The I-130 was approved in FEB ...
  A: Since he appears to have aged out, a separate I-130 is needed. He will be grandfathered, but he will ...
Aged out derivative beneficiary of approved I-1305/19/2010
  Q: My mother petitioned my sister and her children via I-130 in DEC 1991. The I-130 was approved in FEB ...
  A: Since the I-130 was approved in 3 months, it is unlikely that this derivative beneficiary was less ...
I-485 vs consular processing5/18/2010
  Q: first of all thank you for your time My I-140 for future employment(company B) got approved. i am ...
  A: H visa status allows for intention to immigrate to the U.S., so the Consulate should issue you the ...
US citizen petition brother5/18/2010
  Q: I am a US citizen and I have petition my brother back in 2002, we have received a priority date ...
  A: Since you filed for your brother after April 30, 2001, he is not covered under Sec. 245(i) and thus ...
N-400 Travel abroad while legal resident5/18/2010
  Q: I am helping my wife fill in the N-400. We have traveled abroad a lot on various vacations in the ...
  A: The time spent abroad is important if any single absence was 180 days or over, as lengthy absences ...
re-entering the U.S.5/18/2010
  Q: My ex-husband was forced to leave the U.S. while we were married and attempting to obtain a spousal ...
  A: Even if your husband has an unexpired visitor visa stamp in the passport which predates his bar to ...
re-entering the U.S.5/18/2010
  Q: My ex-husband was forced to leave the U.S. while we were married and attempting to obtain a spousal ...
  A: Your husband may be subject to the 3-year or 10-year bar to entry to the U.S. based on being out of ...
Australian F1 marrying US citizen5/18/2010
  Q: I'm an Australian, currently residing in the US. I've recently completed my doctorate degree in the ...
  A: Once you are married to a U.S. citizen, all sponsorship paperwork can be filed concurrently ...
reg L2 visa extension5/17/2010
  Q: I work for company A on L1B.My L1B visa expires on Oct21st 2010,I have I-94 valid till Dec ...
  A: Your spouse can apply for L2 extension of status with the USCIS up to 180 days prior to Oct. 21, ...
H1B for 20105/17/2010
  Q: I am planning to travel in H4 visa next month. After coming there, can I find an employer and apply ...
  A: The cap is open, and thus you can apply for change of status from H4 to H1B if you find an employer ...
I-130 approved ..what next ?5/16/2010
  Q: My brother applied (for sister) I-130 in June, 2002 and it was approved in Oct, 2009. What is the ...
  A: It is not possible to predict visa availability dates...please check the visa bulletin every month. ...
I-130 family based petition5/16/2010
  Q: My family already migrated to the US with an F4 petition and Im the only one left since im over 21 ...
  A: There is really no appeal of a consular decision by U.S. courts (due to jurisdictional issues) to ...
Volunteer Work Before OPT5/16/2010
  Q: I am an international student in the US and I graduate in May 2010. However I have applied for my ...
  A: It is OK to "volunteer" only if the duties that are performed are not duties that are normally ...
H4 Application5/15/2010
  Q: if my petition gets approved on May 24th, when can I go for visa stamping? My address in my petition ...
  A: There is no application to be filed with the USCIS, as your dependents are not currently in the U.S. ...
I-130 family based petition5/15/2010
  Q: My family already migrated to the US with an F4 petition and Im the only one left since im over 21 ...
  A: Since the Consulate did not issue you an immigrant visa to join your family as you had "aged out", ...
F-1 Visa and Marrying an American5/15/2010
  Q: I am in a bit of an interesting situation. I am a canadian citizen, my fiance is a dual citizen of ...
  A: It appears that you and your fiance are in no hurry to be married. Therefore, I suggest entering the ...
H1B visa stamping5/15/2010
  Q: if my petition gets approved on May 24th, when can I go for visa stamping? My address in my petition ...
  A: If the Consulate allows you to schedule an appointment in June, you can go for visa stamping at that ...
H1B visa stamping5/15/2010
  Q: if my petition gets approved on May 24th, when can I go for visa stamping? My address in my petition ...
  A: I am assuming that the employment start date on the H1B approval notice issued by the USCIS is ...
Change of status from J25/14/2010
  Q: I have two separate questions. I'm in the US with my family. My husband has been offered a job but ...
  A: I am assuming that you were not subject to the 2 year home country requirement in J1. If you were, I ...
Work Permit Renewal5/14/2010
  Q: I have a status adjustment application pending at USCIS. My current work permit expires this month. ...
  A: Yes, I-765 is the correct form. You can file up to 120 days prior to expiration of current ...
B1 B2 visa5/14/2010
  Q: I have been in the states for just under 6 months and left recently to go to a job for 9 days in ...
  A: There could be a problem in entering the U.S. after spending so much time in the previous visit and ...
hardhip waiver (follow up question)5/14/2010
  Q: "Thank you for your quick response. I understand that I will be able to adjust my status when my ...
  A: You can file hardship waiver when priority date is current, if your husband remains a permanent ...
F1 Visa to GC and AOS5/14/2010
  Q: .. I am an international student here with an F1 visa status. It has almost been 3 yrs since i was ...
  A: I would suggest filing adjustment of status (AOS) through Form I-485, suitable for persons already ...
dating while awaiting green card5/13/2010
  Q: I recently started dating someone who has a H1B visa and has obtained labor certification. He has ...
  A: The family of this person will receive their green cards at the same time, but if an action for ...
H-1B and B25/13/2010
  Q: I got my H1B visa stamped but I can't start working until the 1st of October. Can I enter the US in ...
  A: If you already have tourist visa (B1/B2) stamp in passport, you can enter the U.S. as per your plan. ...
H4 - H1 - H45/13/2010
  Q: I came to US on a valid H4 visa which is valid till sept 2010. Moreover in between i got the job ...
  A: You are currently violating H1B status as you are not employed by your sponsoring H1B employer. ...
Widthraw the Greencard for my spouse5/13/2010
  Q: I got the greencard under my company sponsorship in 2009. Now we all got 10 years green card. ...
  A: Since the green card was based on employer sponsorship, one spouse (even the principal beneficiary ...
hardhip waiver (follow up question)5/13/2010
  Q: "Thank you for your quick response. I understand that I will be able to adjust my status when my ...
  A: Waiver will not help unless the priority date is current. Therefore, waiver is relevant only if both ...
H1B start date - 1 October?5/13/2010
  Q: I am talking to a potential employer who is considering sponsoring me with a H1B visa. However, we ...
  A: Correct, you have not violated any status since you departed the U.S. at time of termination of ...
I-130 approved ..what next ?5/13/2010
  Q: My brother applied (for sister) I-130 in June, 2002 and it was approved in Oct, 2009. What is the ...
  A: You will need to wait for the priority date for the F4 (4th family preference) category to be ...
J-1 question5/12/2010
  Q: I am a Croatian citizen and currently in the US on OPT and have 2 jobs (one only part time on the ...
  A: The Form DS-2019 issued by the J1 employer should make note of the scope of your J1 activities ...
H1B start date - 1 October?5/12/2010
  Q: I am talking to a potential employer who is considering sponsoring me with a H1B visa. However, we ...
  A: Unless you are going to be employed by a cap-exempt H1B employer (if you will be employed a college ...
H1B - # of days stay in US after resigning5/12/2010
  Q: I work for one of the Indian companies and came to US through H1B. My H1B is still valid and is ...
  A: You can legally remain in the U.S. for up to 10 days after termination of your employment. Thus, ...
hardhip waiver5/12/2010
  Q: My husband filed a stand alone I-130 application for me in March 2008. Notice of approval does not ...
  A: You cannot adjust status at this time for two reasons: your I-94 has expired, and your priority date ...
H1B Remainder period5/12/2010
  Q: My husband's H1B extension was approved in Oct 2009 and is pending for stamping. He was physically ...
  A: The six year clock for H1B status is only for periods physically in the U.S. under H1B status. Thus, ...
AC 21 Letter5/12/2010
  Q: My priority date for EB3 is in 2007 and it may take several years. I wish to transfer to other ...
  A: I am assuming that your I-140 petition is approved, and that I-485 has been pending with the USCIS ...
J-1 question5/11/2010
  Q: I am a Croatian citizen and currently in the US on OPT and have 2 jobs (one only part time on the ...
  A: J1 status is employer specific to the employer who has issued you Form DS-2019, and thus you cannot ...
F1 option with approved I1405/10/2010
  Q: Am I eligible to apply for F1 visa since I have an approved i-140. I have been on bench also, so ...
  A: F visa status does not allow for intention to immigrate to the U.S., and thus the change of status ...
EB3 for RNs5/10/2010
  Q: can a registered nurse with an Associate degree (educated in US) get a green card through EB3? How ...
  A: An immigrant petition can be filed by a small clinic as long as the clinic is capable of paying you ...
Query about L1B petitions reg.,5/9/2010
  Q: In April 2008, My L1B Blanket petition was rejected under "221G - Apply under a different category". ...
  A: Your company must file the H1B petition. You cannot self-petition. The filing of an L or H visa ...
EB3 for RNs5/9/2010
  Q: can a registered nurse with an Associate degree (educated in US) get a green card through EB3? How ...
  A: You would need a job offer and the employer would file an immigrant petition for you in the EB3 ...
Adjustment of status5/9/2010
  Q: My father is being petitioned by my grand-father. My family's case will be current soon. I am no a ...
  A: If you will be under 21 years of age when the priority date is current (see ...
Naturalization/Citizenship5/8/2010
  Q: I am here in the USA since 2002 asylum granted in 2003. married in 2004 my wife had green card at ...
  A: Based on your marriage to a U.S. citizen, you can apply for naturalization 2 years and 9 months from ...
245i grandfathered provision5/7/2010
  Q: My brother filed I130 for me before April 30 2001 and the priority date is still not current. My mom ...
  A: If you were present in the U.S. prior to Dec. 21, 2000 when your brother filed I-130 for you, then ...
H1 to F1 with paychecks but no paystubs5/7/2010
  Q: I got my H1 in Oct-09. I am receiving Paychecks every month but my employer is not withholding any ...
  A: Yes, you can make copy of the checks and they will be considered as paystubs by the USCIS. Generally ...
J-1 to H-1B5/7/2010
  Q: I'm doing an internship with a J-1 visa and i have several questions: - Can I apply with another ...
  A: Since you are not subject to the 2-year home country requirement, an H1B petition can be filed for ...
Visa waiver to AOS5/6/2010
  Q: I was born in Peru. I am US citizen. I am married with a japanese citizen. She was born in Brazil. ...
  A: Since your wife entered the U.S. legally, and she is married to a U.S. citizen, she can be sponsored ...
Work visa5/6/2010
  Q: If a person has a work visa can they work with someone else?
  A: A work visa is normally employer specific. For example, H, L, O and other nonimmigrant ...
arrest and K1 or adjustment of status5/6/2010
  Q: My boyfriend came to the United States on a tourist visa and stayed here for 5 months.During his ...
  A: If your boyfriend is still in the U.S., all marriage ponsorship paperwork can be filed concurrently ...
I-130 in F2A, F2B category5/5/2010
  Q: i am in an f2 petition, from what i understand, f2 is an UMARRIED child 21 of a permanent resident. ...
  A: Go ahead and notify the National Visa Center that you are married. But even if you do not notify, ...
Marriage to U.S. Citizen5/5/2010
  Q: ! I am an international student here in the USA with a F1 Visa. I will graduate with a Bachelors in ...
  A: You can be married anytime, and be sponsored by your U.S. citizen spouse as well anytime after ...
I-130 in F2A, F2B category5/5/2010
  Q: i am in an f2 petition, from what i understand, f2 is an UMARRIED child 21 of a permanent resident. ...
  A: You and your family will not be able to immigrate based on F2 category, as you are now married. I ...
Query about L1B petitions reg.,5/5/2010
  Q: In April 2008, My L1B Blanket petition was rejected under "221G - Apply under a different category". ...
  A: Another L1B petition can be filed for you without prejudice, as each filing with new application fee ...
GC processing and changing employers5/3/2010
  Q: My question is regarding utilizing EAD for employment. My EAD is with current employer and I was ...
  A: EAD allows you to work legally for any employer. Whether you green card process is still successful ...
I-864 issue5/3/2010
  Q: On form I-864, the Affidavit of Support, it says: "If you included the income of the intending ...
  A: We suggest attaching current employment letter from employer verifying job title, salary, dates of ...
Query related DS2305/3/2010
  Q: I reside in Mumbai India and have got married in Jan 2010. My husband has US citizenship. I have ...
  A: Since you are not certain whether your husband will fly with you, it is OK to put "no" on the DS230 ...
Student visa for US citizen spouse5/3/2010
  Q: I'm a US citizen living in mexico. I'm married with a mexican who want to go to study in the us. She ...
  A: Your spouse should apply for the student visa category (F1 visa stamp) at the nearest U.S. Consulate ...
I-130 Process with NVC5/3/2010
  Q: I have filed 1-130 for my brothers and sister. The priority dates was Agust 2007 and petition just ...
  A: You will need to wait for the priority date to be current: www.h1b1.com/visawaiting.htm for the 4th ...
Marriage sponsorship I-1305/2/2010
  Q: I'm hoping that maybe you can help me with a query that I have. I would say that it is a very common ...
  A: Entry on visa waiver program (VWP) does not allow for intention to immigrate to the U.S. Thus, if ...
Sponsoring Parent4/30/2010
  Q: I am applying for my father's green card , he is currently on visitor visa and in USA till August. I ...
  A: Your father can continue to remain legally in the U.S. without extending his I-94 as long as ...
Sponsoring Parent4/30/2010
  Q: I am applying for my father's green card , he is currently on visitor visa and in USA till August. I ...
  A: A parent is considered an "immediate relative" if the petitioning child is a U.S. citizen. The ...
L1 to H1B4/29/2010
  Q: I got H1B approval in 2007 and went for H1B stamping while I am in India and got approved. After ...
  A: Yes, H1B petition can be filed requesting change of status (COS). The H1B approval notice from the ...
I140 and H1B stamping4/29/2010
  Q: first of all thank you for your time My question is 1)My employer recently filed for I140 and I am ...
  A: I-140 (petition for immigrant worker) filing will not affect H1B stamping, as H visa status allows ...
H1B to Adjustment F2B category4/29/2010
  Q: Ajay,Good day. I find your site very informative and eager to ask specific questions that I can not ...
  A: H visa status is a dual-intent nonimmigrant visa category, allowing for intention to immigrate to ...
H1B to F1--no paystubs4/29/2010
  Q: I am on H1 since 16 months and i don't have any pay stubs . Is there any option to convert it to F1 ...
  A: In order to change status from H1B to another nonimmigrant visa status within the U.S., you would be ...
L1 to H14/29/2010
  Q: I got H1B approval in 2007 and went for H1B stamping while I am in India and got approved. After ...
  A: You can hold only one visa status at a time, and you are currently in L1 status since the "latest ...
Visa waiver and status change4/29/2010
  Q: I'm planning to travel to US on VWS (Visa Waiver Program) while is it possible to change my status ...
  A: Entry in visa waiver program is for 90 days only. It is not possible to extend status or change ...
Marriage sponsorship4/28/2010
  Q: I am a U.S. Citizen, and I will marry to an international student (F1) in two months. I want to ...
  A: It is OK if you are living separately, as long as the marriage is a bona fide marriage. Moreover, ...
F1 financial requirement4/28/2010
  Q: For getting the visa done should I need to show the financial amount printed in I-20 or the amount ...
  A: You need to be able to show the full amount for the entire course of study (4 years in this ...
B2 Visitor Visa - revisit4/27/2010
  Q: My mom is with me for 2 months on B2 and due to family emergency, she should leave now. Can I get ...
  A: If she has a multiple-entry, unexpired visa, she should be able to enter without any problem, esp. ...
Naturalization and absence from U.S.4/27/2010
  Q: I'm a green card holder since feb 2008..i was stay in USA from feb 2008 till aug 2009 around 18 ...
  A: You must be physically present in the U.S. for more than 50% of the time in the 5 year window ...
Unemployment pay/benefit for new Resident4/27/2010
  Q: I became a Permanent Resident some seven months ago, i feel that i may get laid off in some 2-3 ...
  A: There is no minimum income requirement to qualify for U.S. citizenship (also known as ...
Green Card through Marriage4/27/2010
  Q: I was wondering if you could answer something for me. I've been engaged for a little over a year, my ...
  A: Your husband can sponsor you without any problem irrespective of his criminal record as long as the ...
Can you start a company in the US on a tourist visa4/27/2010
  Q: I am traveling to the US on a tourist visa and I want to open a corporation while I am in the US and ...
  A: Anyone in any status can open a company. However, you cannot be legally employed by the company. ...
1-94 card correction4/26/2010
  Q: i came in the united states to visit my uncle, in california, i entered through miami, since it was ...
  A: It is important to have an I-94 issued at the port-of-entry into the U.S. in your possession as this ...
I-130 and L1 visa4/21/2010
  Q: I have an approved I-130 on family petition for a visa and this has been approved pending ...
  A: When the I-130 is approved, and your priority date is current, if you are at that time in the U.S. ...
Adjustment of status4/20/2010
  Q: Here is the situation, if i am from retrogressed country and my PD is not current , and try to use ...
  A: Your PERM and I-140 will continue to remain valid. Thus, if I-485 is denied, another I-485 can be ...
Adjustment of statut through mariage4/14/2010
  Q: my name is Linda i came to the US in 2007 with F1 visa. i stopped going to school in 2008. in 2009 ...
  A: I suggest that you be sponsored by your U.S. citizen spouse immediately upon marriage. This will ...
H4 visa processing (dependent in India) after H1 Transfer4/13/2010
  Q: Ajayji! Thanks for providing such a good forum to ask question. It would be great if you can ...
  A: When your family applies for H4 visa stamp at the U.S. Consulate, the Consulate will ask for ...
filing the I-1304/7/2010
  Q: On form I-130(question #15)on Information about your relative,it ask about "Name and address of ...
  A: The question should be answered in the affirmative with name and address of employer. As a practical ...
B2 Visa Sponsorship4/6/2010
  Q: I came to USA along with my wife ten years ago (year 2000) on B1 Visa and found an employer who ...
  A: It is OK to send current passport only. You should attach in addition to the documents noted in your ...
EB2 eligibility--PERM3/30/2010
  Q: If job requirement is EB2 eligible and I have 3 year bachelor degree followed by 2 year work ...
  A: I recommend filing PERM (also known as labor certification) under EB3. The USCIS does not allow ...
H1B to Visitor visa status3/29/2010
  Q: I have been in the US since 2002 on an F1 which I then changed to H1 and worked for the past five ...
  A: You must continue to be employed by the H1B employer in order to maintain H1B status. There is only ...
H1B Extension3/25/2010
  Q: Firstly let me thank you for providing us online help. I am currently on H1B1 work visa which ...
  A: The company does not normally need to advertising a position in a newspaper or on their bulletin ...
H-1B-H4-H1B again3/23/2010
  Q: I was on H-1b and recently I was laid off. Then I converted to H4 . Now I got an offer and they are ...
  A: Although you are not subject to the H1B visa cap even though you are currently in H4 visa status, ...
H4 turning 213/22/2010
  Q: My Husband is on an H1B. My son like me and my daughter are on H4's. We have lived in the USA for 10 ...
  A: Your son will automatically lose H4 status when he turns 21 years of age. Thus, he should change to ...
Marriage to U.S. Citizen3/19/2010
  Q: I am married to a US citizen and he wants to petition for me and my children for permanent ...
  A: Since you are the person being sponsored, and since you personally do not have a criminal record, ...
L1 to H43/18/2010
  Q: I'm working on H1-B Visa in US. My wife too is currently working in US on L1-B visa. She also has a ...
  A: It is not clear if your wife is truly on H4 status; this depends on the "latest action" by the ...
H1B (Cap-Exempt) visa3/15/2010
  Q: I am currently in OPT (valid from August 1st 2009 to July 31st 2010), working as a "Research ...
  A: Your employer can file an H1B petition anytime, as this is a cap-exempt case due to employment by ...
H1B after L1 ext. denied3/9/2010
  Q: Our L1b visa extension was denied on Mar 2 2010. Can you let us know if we can file a H1b visa ...
  A: Due to visa cap issues, an H1B petition can be filed by your employer no earlier than April 01, ...
H-1B Denied3/4/2010
  Q: My H-1b got denied from one contract company. They are in the process of re appealing it. They are ...
  A: You do not need to inform the new company. The H1B petition filed by the new company will be ...
Spouse Visit USA before I-130 filing?2/24/2010
  Q: I'm a US citizen who recently married to German Citizen ( Last month in EUROPE). We have not yet ...
  A: As a German citizen, your spouse can enter on visa waiver program for up to 90 days since an ...
multiple H1B petition2/18/2010
  Q: It was very useful. I have one more follow up question. Here is my Situation. As I mentioned before, ...
  A: There is no problem with another H1B petition filed through a contract company irrespective of ...
H-1b Denied2/16/2010
  Q: Recently my petition for H-1B denied. The reason is 1.Lack of proper evidence for the job which ...
  A: Appeals of H1B denials are rarely successful. Your best bet is for another H1B petition to be filed ...
I-485 Adjustment of Status based on Marriage to U.S. Citizen2/10/2010
  Q: From that I understand that I should put my residency (They are asking for the past five years on ...
  A: Yes, it is OK to state Canadian residential address until date of marriage, at which point you ...
Marriage to US citizen2/9/2010
  Q: I am a Canadian citizen. I came to US in October 2009 as a visitor. I had a long distance ...
  A: Since it is perfectly acceptable to reside with your husband after marriage, and since you are ...
F1 married US citizen2/4/2010
  Q: I graduated in December 2009 and got married the same month. We're in the process of sending the ...
  A: It is important to answer questions truthfully when completing USCIS applications. The sponsorship ...
I-140 premium processing and PERM1/28/2010
  Q: My 6 year h1b visa expires in oct 2011.This is including my vacation recapture period. Shall i ...
  A: I-140 filing based on approved PERM can be filed through premium processing. You are not required ...
Marriage to Green Card holder?1/27/2010
  Q: I came in US like a tourist and I meet here my best friend from high school,we had feelings before ...
  A: You can get married, but sponsorship by a permanent resident (also known as a green card holder) ...
Asylee to Citizen1/26/2010
  Q: I was granted asylum on sept. 25 2003 and one year later i applied for a green card, which took over ...
  A: You should wait for 4 years and 9 months from 02/22/2006 before applying for citizenship, as the ...
H4 to H1 status1/19/2010
  Q: I was on H4 status and my spouse company had applied for H4 extension in last year December. ...
  A: Another H1B through the same employer (or any other employer) requesting COS from H4 to H1B is ...
H4 to H1 status1/18/2010
  Q: I was on H4 status and my spouse company had applied for H4 extension in last year December. ...
  A: Since you can hold only one status in the U.S. at a time, and the latest action by the USCIS is ...
US Citizen wants to remarry ex-wife1/13/2010
  Q: Good Day! I am a Naturalized US Citizen, i got my citizenship through marriage. I would like to know ...
  A: Yes, you can obtain divorce from your current wife through whom you obtained immigration benefits ...
H1B married to PR1/11/2010
  Q: I am a H1B holder and will get married in 2 weeks to my fiance who is a green card holder for 4 ...
  A: You would need to maintain valid independent nonimmigrant status if you marry a green card holder; ...
H1B on overseas assignment1/7/2010
  Q: I am currently under H1B status. If my employer post me on overseas assignment to Germany for 1.5 ...
  A: There is no minimum amount of time that you are required to be present in the U.S. in order to ...
Returning Resident Visa1/4/2010
  Q: I am Liramie. I just want to have question about a returning resident visa. I married a U.S. citizen ...
  A: Since 2 years have elapsed since your last entry to the U.S., you are considered to have abandoned ...
Green Card for Spouse12/28/2009
  Q: I recently got married with a woman with valid H1B Visa that will be expired in October 2010. The ...
  A: You can sponsor your wife without waiting for name to be corrected. On the sponsorship paperwork ...
J1 visa waiver won dv lottery12/22/2009
  Q: I am doing fellowship in geriatric medicine. My husband is on J-2 and he recently won DV lottery. I ...
  A: In order for you to adjust status to permanent resident status, a waiver of the J1 two-year home ...
File I-485 again based on new I-14012/15/2009
  Q: I would like to get your opinion on my situation. Me and My husband submitted the 485 based on his ...
  A: The USCIS office noted on the I-485 receipt notice should be requested to interfile the new I-140 ...
H1 B transfer12/14/2009
  Q: Please answer my questions. Right now I'm working for a non profit company (State Job) on my OPT (F1 ...
  A: If a company which is not subject to the visa cap (such as a non-profit research company, or a ...
query on H-1B “Remainder” Option12/7/2009
  Q: Mr. Arora, I have been out of US for over an year. Before leaving US, I had consumed only 5 months ...
  A: You will not be subject to the visa cap again. You can apply for H1B visa stamp at a U.S. Consulate ...
F-1 to permanent resident12/2/2009
  Q: I am currently filing my 1-495 and am also an F-1 commuting student. Can I file the status ...
  A: Although F1 status does not allow for intention to immigrate, I-485 can be filed without any ...
H1B approval lost12/1/2009
  Q: I am a student and have a valid I-20 till December. My H-1B was approved about two months back. I ...
  A: Assuming that the approval notice states that you were granted "change of status" to H1B, you are ...
H1B to H4 transfer back to H1B11/23/2009
  Q: I got my H-1B approved in July 2009 and got my I-797 along with the approval (which included the ...
  A: You are automatically in H1B status as of October 01, 2009. However, you are violating H1B status by ...
F2 to H411/16/2009
  Q: Good Evening. Situation: My OPT work authorization is valid upto 11/18/2009 and F1 status expires ...
  A: Since you have presumably been granted "change of status" (COS) to H1B on 11/11/09, your spouse is ...
H1B ext. beyond 6 years11/11/2009
  Q: Mr. Arora, What is the earliest date to apply for H1B extension beyond 6 years if the labor is ...
  A: The H1B petition can be filed no more than 180 days prior to expiration. The requested start date ...
Received my GC but confused11/10/2009
  Q: I received my GC on Aug 18, 2009 and since then have received my card. But on the USCIS online ...
  A: There is no action to be taken, since the actual green card is the best evidence that you are now a ...
Change of Status11/9/2009
  Q: I came to US on H1 in oct 2008 and from then i'm unemployed till now. I want to change my status ...
  A: In order to change nonimmigrant status from one category to another, you need to show the USCIS that ...
Ownership in GC sponsor Co.11/5/2009
  Q: Sir, I recently became a Permanent Resident. Its a small size consulting company who sponsored my ...
  A: Your intention should be to work for the sponsoring company on a "permanent" basis after obtaining ...
H1B - No payslips11/3/2009
  Q: Respected sir I have my H1B approved for COS (start date: 1st Oct). The PROJECT at the client site ...
  A: As a practical matter, absence of paystubs for a month after H1B takes effect will probably have no ...
H1B transfer11/2/2009
  Q: FACTS: F1 to H1B approved for change of status effective date 10/1/2009. However Company A is unable ...
  A: You are violating your H1B status if you are not employed by Co. A effective October 01. The USCIS ...
Affidavit of Support10/28/2009
  Q: i just got married with a us citizen but she doesn't have meet the minimum income. so we need a ...
  A: There is no maximum number of times that a person can sign an affidavit of support. However, the ...
H1B denial and H410/26/2009
  Q: Arora, Came to US on H4 Visa later COS TO H1. My H1 approval is valid until 2011.I Went for H1 ...
  A: After you enter the U.S. on H4 visa stamp, an H1B petition can be filed for you again requesting ...
H1B to H410/20/2009
  Q: Background: I came to US on H4 thru my wifes H1B later COS to H1.Now i would like to cos to H4 ...
  A: The application for change of status (COS) to H4 is signed by you and you do not require the ...
Citizenship10/19/2009
  Q: I am a green card holder and so is my husband. We live abroad. In 2005 I re-entered the US and ...
  A: Your statement is correct in your follow-up email. I had earlier misread your email and assumed that ...
Citizenship10/14/2009
  Q: I am a green card holder and so is my husband. We live abroad. In 2005 I re-entered the US and ...
  A: You can apply for naturalization since more than 50% of the time in the past 5 years has been ...
H4->H1->H4->H110/13/2009
  Q: I need your help regarding my COS. I came to US on H4 visa in May 2006.I converted to H1 on Nov ...
  A: Either scenario is fine. You can depart now and apply directly at a U.S. Consulate in India for H4 ...
Naturalization--married to US Citizen10/6/2009
  Q: My husband was a green card holder and became a US citizen in 2000. I am still a green card holder. ...
  A: Your waiting period is 3 years based on marriage to a U.S. citizen. Thus, your naturalization ...
L1B status and H1B withdrawal10/1/2009
  Q: I am employed with XYZ company in L1B visa. My L1B visa expires on Dec 09. A new company ABC has ...
  A: You will continue to remain in L1B status with Co. XYZ starting October 01 since the H1B petition ...
H1B denial--impact on H49/30/2009
  Q: Arora, I have my EAD as I had filed my I485 in 2007. I got married after that. I have maintained my ...
  A: Since you are no longer maintaining H1B status, your wife is therefore not maintaining her H4 status ...
Awaiting Spouse's I 485 approval9/28/2009
  Q: I received by GC (i -485 approval & Card) on August 18 through EB-2 employment; I was the primary ...
  A: Your I-485 approval will not be in any jeopardy. Each I-485 is considered independently and that is ...
EAD-individual vs attorney9/24/2009
  Q: Ajay I am on L2 visa and have been here for a month now.I want to apply for EAD.Is there any ...
  A: The processing time is the same whether filed individually or through an attorney. Of course, if ...
N400 and I1309/23/2009
  Q: Can I file N-400 (Citizenship) for myself together with I-130/485 for wife?
  A: You can only file I-130 at this time since you are not yet a U.S. citizen. When you file N-400 ...
divorced perminent resident?9/21/2009
  Q: i received my perminent resident cadr and my social in 2006. our mariage did not last due to him ...
  A: You can apply for naturalization (U.S. citizenship) 4 years and 9 months from the date that it ...
Change name in the U.S. upon marriage9/18/2009
  Q: I'm an F-1 Student from Vietnam. I'm getting married soon and I want to change my last name to my ...
  A: Yes, you can change your last name to your husband's last name at time of marriage in the U.S. At ...
OPT to B2 Visitor9/16/2009
  Q: My OPT expires Sept 23rd but I want to change my status to a tourist visa before that so I can ...
  A: Form I-539, which can be obtained here: http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-539.pdf should be ...
J2 to H19/15/2009
  Q: I was on J2 Visa (dependent of my spouse's J1 Visa) and was working in anon-profit organization on ...
  A: There is a 30-day grace period in J visa status. Thus, you are able to remain legally in the U.S. ...
Marriage with J-1 Visa9/9/2009
  Q: I recently got married to a girl from Russia that is here on a J-1 Visa. Her visa is set to expire ...
  A: All sponsorship paperwork such as Forms I-130, I-485, I-765, etc. can be filed concurrently based on ...
Vacation to USA while GC pending?9/8/2009
  Q: My wife is German and I am a US military service member. My wife has a valid German passport; if we ...
  A: Your wife should not enter the U.S. as a visitor. She is an intending immigrant, but entering on ...
h-1b visa six years8/31/2009
  Q: does the 2 times 3 years rule for h-1b visas that you had described in an earlier answer also apply ...
  A: You will not be subject to the visa cap if being sponsored by a university, but you will still be ...
H1B to B2 and back to H1B8/26/2009
  Q: 1) I came to USA in 2001 on F1 visa and then got H1B 2) I was laid of in Feb 2009 and my employer ...
  A: Since you currently are maintaining valid nonimmigrant visa status, an H1B petition can be filed ...
U.S. green card8/15/2009
  Q: My uncle sent me an invitation letter to visit him.I would like to know if there is any way that I ...
  A: The two regular methods of obtaining permanent resident (green card) status in the U.S. is through ...
advance parole with green card8/14/2009
  Q: I left the US in Nov. last year and cannot return till Dec. this year. Since I will be away from the ...
  A: You should be present in the U.S. when applying for reentry permit. Also, the USCIS will schedule ...
Travel outside US--GC pending8/10/2009
  Q: My husband has a h1b visa and travels worldwide for his job, if he applies for a green card will my ...
  A: H4 (dependent) status does not allow for employment. However, when your husband files I-485 ...
I485--adjustment of status8/4/2009
  Q: plz help. Today I got my i485(empoyment based) approved in my interview but my wife and son's was ...
  A: If your family was maintaining their H4 status (in other words their I-94 had not expired) at the ...
H4 to F1 COS7/29/2009
  Q: My Wife is currently in H4. I would like to make a change of staus to F1 for her to study and work. ...
  A: An application for change of status to F1 is filed on Form I-539: ...
L1 to F1 to apply for OPT7/23/2009
  Q: I changed my status from H1B to L1A last year. Altogether I have been in Us for 4 years 5 months ...
  A: You can change to F1 status after completing an aggregate of six years in H1B/L1A. However, you will ...
regarding my visa7/21/2009
  Q: I am a french citizen and my husband is an Indian . he is H1B visa and i am in H4. and i would like ...
  A: You need to find an employer willing to support you for permanent, full-time employment. The green ...
H4 Dependent Visa advice7/9/2009
  Q: Arora, I am currently on H1B visa (non-profit organization i.e. cap exempt), my wife is on H4 visa ...
  A: Your wife will continue to maintain her H4 status until her I-94 expires (October, 2010). Thus, she ...
SOC code change on Labor Certification7/8/2009
  Q: Arora: I have pending I-485. I have post graduation in Molecular biology and work in a biotech firm ...
  A: The SOC code cannot be changed after the Labor Certification has been filed. The only alternative ...
immigration7/1/2009
  Q: i came here from uk in 2001 on a tourist visa, i just got married to us citizen, will i be made to ...
  A: You can adjust status in the U.S. since you entered the U.S. legally (even if your authorized stay ...
International travel on OPT with approved H1-B but no stamp6/30/2009
  Q: First of all thank you for this free service it is really appreciated. My question is: I am ...
  A: It is OK to travel on unexpired F1 visa stamp. I recommend that you inform the DSO (also known as ...
H1B visa stamp in another country6/29/2009
  Q: I got my H1B, and i am planning on wanting to go to Greece; however, i am lebanese. Can i still get ...
  A: The general rule is that you can apply at a U.S. Consulate for visa stamp only in your home country, ...
Green Card Process--Marriage to U.S. Citizen6/24/2009
  Q: I am a US citizen and my fiancée is a South Korean national here on a student visa. We are getting ...
  A: All paperwork such as petition for alien relative (that you sign) along with your wife's (after you ...
Change of status from H1 - H4 - H16/23/2009
  Q: I came to U.S. on H4 visa & processed my H1B premium last year. My H1B started from 1 Oct 2008. ...
  A: You are currently violating H1B status by not being employed at the agreed upon salary by the H1B ...
Expiring H1B with pending family-based I-485 and work authorization6/22/2009
  Q: My 6th year of h1-b is expiring on July of this year but I recently filed for I- 485 and work ...
  A: You can remain legally in the U.S. after your H1B status expires in July based on already filed ...
L2 visa when H1-B petition approved6/15/2009
  Q: I recently got to know that mine and my husband's H1-B has been approved and we can start working ...
  A: I am assuming that the H1B approval notices take effect on October 01, 2009 due to the visa cap. ...
Permanent Resident Parents Abroad6/14/2009
  Q: My parents were petitioned by my brother last September, 2007 and eventually got their green card on ...
  A: Your parents can stay outside the U.S. for up to one year and still enter the U.S. without a problem ...
L1 B extension RFE response6/12/2009
  Q: I stayed in US for around 2 years(not continously) on L1B visa, it got expired on may 1 2009, we ...
  A: The probability of approval is quite high if a response is made to the RFE. The USCIS wants ...
H1 - H4 - H1 Change of status6/10/2009
  Q: I am in H1B valid till Sep 2010 and I am in payroll now. Since I am pregnant, I planned to change ...
  A: I recommend that you continue to maintain H1B status by being paid at least the agreed upon salary ...
H1B visa transfer6/8/2009
  Q: I have been working with company A in India for more than 6.5 yrs. I got H1B visa from another ...
  A: Co. A can file an H1B petition with the USCIS through its U.S. branch or subsidiary. You will not be ...
I-130 petition denied6/2/2009
  Q: Last year, I applied for the I 130 for my son. In January of this year, USCIS sent a notice ...
  A: I recommend filing a new I-130 petition. A previous denial will not negatively effect the filing of ...
H1C to H45/28/2009
  Q: I am currently working under H1C visa and planning to change to H4. I heard it takes about 6 months ...
  A: You can continue working for the H1C employer. However, when the H4 application is approved by the ...
L1 transfer to H1B5/20/2009
  Q: i am working on L1to company A have a H1b visa with out cos not stamped .from consultant b ...
  A: It appears that you are still in L1 status since you were not granted "change of status" to H1B. ...
L1A extension denied5/19/2009
  Q: I am an owner of a small buisness in USA on L1A blanket visa initially they approved me a 1 year ...
  A: Filing an appeal will not give you the right to remain legally in the U.S. while the appeal is ...
Absence from the USA--green card revocation5/14/2009
  Q: I have heard that it is possible to get your Green Card revoked, if you travel and remain outside ...
  A: If you are continuously outside the U.S. for 365 days or more, you will be considered to have ...
Resident divorced from U.S. citizen5/11/2009
  Q: I am English and married an american I have been married for 4 years and our marriage unfortunately ...
  A: Since you are a permanent resident, divorce will not affect your immigration status in the U.S., and ...
H1 to F2 transfer5/7/2009
  Q: I am currently on H1B visa and employed. I plan to move in with my husband and will have to leave ...
  A: You should continue to be employed by the H1B employer until the application to change your status ...
H1B1 to Green Card5/6/2009
  Q: I am a Singaporean and currently on a H1B1 Visa Status. I would like to find out if I ...
  A: The regular method of sponsorship through employment is initiated with the filing of an application ...
which visa should i apply for my spouse?4/29/2009
  Q: i am us citizen and i want to apply for my husband we got married 3 years ago in canada.and after ...
  A: A withdrawal cannot generally be reversed. Therefore, a new I-130 petition should be filed. Since ...
COS from H-1B to H4 with old paystubs4/27/2009
  Q: My spouse was working on H1 till mid March, but now wants to convert to H4. She has paystubs till ...
  A: I recommend that change of status (COS) application be filed by your wife requesting H4 status. She ...
H1 Transfer4/23/2009
  Q: Hope you are doing good. Let me explain my problem. I came to US on July, 08 and till now (April, ...
  A: In order to maintain H1B status, you should be paid by at least the agreed-upon salary as noted in ...
Change of status denied4/20/2009
  Q: My friend tried to change from G1 status (in Jun 08 when her diplomat mother left) to F1. USCIS ...
  A: Your friend is out of status starting on the day of the denial. Therefore, your friend should depart ...
Use of Advance Parole4/16/2009
  Q: I am on h1b and also an Advance Parole obtained after filing I-485, the Advance Parole is good till ...
  A: Sorry for the delay in responding. The advance parole document remains valid. There is no ...
Reentry with B2 visa4/15/2009
  Q: I have a B2 visa in my passport which is valid until 3 Dec 2009. I entered the US on 6 Jan 2009 and ...
  A: You can do so, but this depends upon the discretion of the admitting officer at the port-of-entry. ...
H4 to H14/13/2009
  Q: I am working in India for an MNC. My husband works in US on H1. I've entered us on H4 for a couple ...
  A: You can enter the U.S. using H4 visa stamp. At the port-of-entry, you will be issued an I-94 stating ...
I-130 for parent--U.S. citizen child sponsoring4/7/2009
  Q: I'm US citizen filing I-130 for my father. He stayed his tourist visa 4 years ago. In question 15 is ...
  A: Both the I-130 (petition for alien relative) that you sign along with I-485 (adjustment of status ...
H1-H4-H14/6/2009
  Q: My Wife who was a F1 Student applied for a H1 after her graduation and got it approved which was ...
  A: Since your wife's employment is terminated, an application to change her status to H4 should be ...
Part time H1B and school full time?4/2/2009
  Q: I am currently working with full time H1B, I am planning to go back to school, and I am wondering ...
  A: An amended H1B petition can be filed to convert from full-time to part-time employment. You will ...
B2- H1B4/1/2009
  Q: I am here in the US in B1 visa and my I-94 will expire on August 2009. I am also waiting for the ...
  A: Since the H1B approval notice will take effect on October 01 (I am assuming that this is a ...
K3 visa and entry on visa waiver3/30/2009
  Q: I am a US citizen residing in the US...if after I submit an I-130 and then an I-129F for consular ...
  A: Entry on a visa waiver is not permitted for persons who have an intention to immigrate to the U.S. ...
I-130 Petition and marriage to U.S. Citizen3/26/2009
  Q: I am a German citizen and came to the US as a short term scholar with a J1 visa at a university for ...
  A: Since you are an "immediate relative" based on marriage to a U.S. Citizen, both the I-130 petition ...
content of H1b revocation letter3/19/2009
  Q: When an employee working on H1B visa leaves the employer, the employer needs to send a letter to ...
  A: Simply a one or two sentence letter stating that [name] no longer works at the company as of [date] ...
I-539 for B2 extension was denied3/17/2009
  Q: i applied application for my mom and sis for I-539 last DEC,their port of entry is Los Angeles on ...
  A: I strongly recommend that your mother and sister leave within 30 days of the denial decision dated ...
OPT employment under STEM3/11/2009
  Q: Sir, Is it possible to start working for an employer on OPT who is not e-verify employer? I have ...
  A: The employer must be enrolled in e-verify before you start OPT period under STEM program. Regular ...
H1B and TN visas3/10/2009
  Q: I am in USA with H1B visa. If I decide to join another part time job can I do it with TN visa, ...
  A: You can have multiple H1B approval notices in the U.S., and as long as you work for at least one H1B ...
H1 Extension - Status3/9/2009
  Q: My H1B extension (4th year) was filed with the same employer on June 20, 2008.Till now the case ...
  A: You will need to discontinue employment on May 29, 2009. You can remain legally in the U.S. after ...
sponsoring parents3/4/2009
  Q: My husband is a naturalized u.s. citizen and he wants to petition for his mom to get a green ...
  A: A U.S. citizen can sponsor parents, children, or spouse as "immediate relatives". As long as the ...
H4 to H1B and consular processing vs. COS3/3/2009
  Q: I have a Question. I want to apply for H1 this year. I am planning to go to India Dec 2009. I am ...
  A: I will assume that you are currently in H4 visa status. Your employer will sign and file the H1B ...
change from L1 Visa to H1B2/26/2009
  Q: My wife is currently on L1A Visa and i am on L2 and working on EAD. This year we both are planning ...
  A: Your L2 status is dependent on your wife maintaining her L1 status. Thus, if your wife does not ...
I-94 renewal2/24/2009
  Q: Can you tell me if you ever heard of I-94 renewal? My husband is enrolling in school and he is ...
  A: Your husband is able to remain legally in the U.S. based on the filing of I-485, etc. He is not ...
Recapture time H1B2/23/2009
  Q: Can I file myself an extension to recapture time (that I was abroad for trips). Or does it have to ...
  A: Only your employer can file an H1B petition requesting extension of status. You can go to Canada ...
reactivation of H1B2/18/2009
  Q: I got H1B visa in 2005, while I was in India. But, I never entered US with that visa. Later, I ...
  A: Since an H1B petition was approved within the past six years, another H1B petition can be filed for ...
Marrying to f1 visa holder2/17/2009
  Q: How are you? I am from India.I have greens card. And still 3 years left for become U.S. citizen. I ...
  A: F1 visa status is not consistent with intention to immigrate to the U.S. There is no problem in ...
L1 to H12/16/2009
  Q: I am currently working on L1 B visa from company A and plan to file an H1 B visa from company B. ...
  A: The assumptions in your email are correct. The H1B petition at time of filing should request ...
H1B visa subject to visa cap?2/12/2009
  Q: Arora, I had talked to you in your office also about my case....I cam to US on F2 visa(in Sept ...
  A: Another company can file an H1B petition for you based on earlier H1B approval, even if it was ...
H1 to L2 and requirements for EAD2/9/2009
  Q: Mr. Ajay Iam on H1B status from Oct 1st 2008, but recently I lost my job. Before going onto H1B I ...
  A: The I539 form should be filed as soon as possible since there can be violation of H1B status if you ...
I-94 extension beyond 6 yrs --Wife is US Citizen2/5/2009
  Q: Sir, I'm on H1 B visa currently. It will expire in 8 months from now. My wife is a US citizen and ...
  A: You can work on EAD when your H1B expires, but you will be unable to extend H1B beyond six years. If ...
I-94 extension beyond 6 yrs --Wife is US Citizen2/4/2009
  Q: Sir, I'm on H1 B visa currently. It will expire in 8 months from now. My wife is a US citizen and ...
  A: You will be unable to extend H1B status beyond six years since a PERM application (also known as ...
k2 visa2/3/2009
  Q: i just want to ask what are the requirements of k2 visa, my kids ages are 4 and 8 , do i have to ...
  A: Please include the names of your children on the petition (I-129F) that will be signed by your ...
family petitions1/28/2009
  Q: My wife has her perm. res. and is going to be applying for U.S. citizenship in a couple months. ...
  A: When your wife is a U.S. citizen, she can sponsor her siblings and mother. The various family ...
K3 visa1/27/2009
  Q: I am a Canadian Citizen, married to a U.S. Citizen. While recently traveling from Canada to the ...
  A: If you are married to a U.S. citizen, the immigration officer at the port-of-entry will assume that ...
Revocation of H1B petition1/26/2009
  Q: Sir, We recently filed an H1 transfer for a prospective employee and after getting the transfer ...
  A: The petition can be revoked anytime. I recommend waiting until the receipt notice has been issued ...
H1-H4-H11/22/2009
  Q: I received my H1 with a COS from H4 and I94 effective Oct 01,08. I have since not been employed and ...
  A: Yes, it is a good idea for your spouse to not include you as a dependent since you are in H1B ...
Adjustment of status fthrough U.S. citizen spouse1/21/2009
  Q: My case is an immigration case. I came to the us with my b1/b2 visa(10yrs multiple entry) and got ...
  A: Since the immigrant petition (I-130) along with adjustment of status application (I-485) as well as ...
H1B Transfer to Company B1/20/2009
  Q: I have applied for H1b transfer to company B and it is still under process . But now due to some ...
  A: You can have multiple H1B approval notices, and you will maintain your H1B status as long as you ...
I485 status changed1/19/2009
  Q: Here are some facts that might help. 1- 01/03/08 I applied for I140 & I485 as EB2. 2- 04/12/08 went ...
  A: The transferring of the case to another processing center within the USCIS is quite common as the ...
marriage interview based on spousal sponsorship1/15/2009
  Q: i have an interview coming up. my case is that i had a petition before through my father and my step ...
  A: I am assuming that you have an interview based on sponsorship by your spouse. Both spouses attend ...
H1B petition cap exempt premium processing1/13/2009
  Q: My question to you is that, if my employer is a non-profit organization such as a hospital applying ...
  A: If a credentials evaluator determines that you have already completed the equivalent of a four-year ...
l1b-h1b1/12/2009
  Q: I have L1 b visa from Company X , I came to us on L1 b on SEP 2007. In 2008 , I applied h1B through ...
  A: If the H1B approval notice states that you were granted change of status, then you are automatically ...
F1-L21/5/2009
  Q: I am on F1 visa now. I will go for a CPT next semester. My question is , if being on CPT, my status ...
  A: Since you can hold only one immigration status at a time in the U.S., and since the latest action by ...
H1-L1 query12/29/2008
  Q: I am currently working on H1B visa and my I-94/H1 visa is expiring in March 2009. My current ...
  A: When the Consulate issues you the L1 visa stamp, they will normally cancel the H1B visa stamp. You ...
F1 to I485 based on marriage to U.S.C.12/23/2008
  Q: HERE IS THE TIMELINESS OF MY WIFE SHE GOT F 1 ISSUED JUNE 2006 ,we were not in any relation WE GOT ...
  A: Your wife should now file adjustment of status (AOS) application. She will come a permanent ...
L2 - H1B and EAD Immigration Query12/22/2008
  Q: I am on L1B. I want to apply for H1B for my spouse who will be on L2 Visa. Q1. If he gets his H1B ...
  A: L2 status with EAD allows for employment with no restrictions. If your husband's H1B petition is ...
will I be subjected to H1B visa cap again?12/17/2008
  Q: My H1B visa will be terminated by my current employer in next couple of days. I wanted to understand ...
  A: You will still not be subject to the visa cap even if your employer revokes the petition and you ...
OUT OF STATUS12/16/2008
  Q: Ajay, I am transferring my H-1B visa from employer A to B but it is unlikely to get approved and my ...
  A: Even if Employer A has revoked the petition, you are currently maintaining H1B status since Employer ...
L1A question12/15/2008
  Q: I am currently in USA with L1A visa for the last 3 years. My visa is up for renewal in March 2009. ...
  A: The L1 petition that is filed should request "extension of status" so that the approval notice (Form ...
Regarding change from F1 to green card12/11/2008
  Q: I have 2 questions. 1) I am on my F1 visa and married to a green card in jan this year in India. I ...
  A: If your husband files an I-130 petition, you will have shown an intent to immigrate to the U.S., ...
Extension for H1 beyond 6 years12/8/2008
  Q: Sir, My company is applying for 1 year extension of H1B as i am completing six years of issuance of ...
  A: You can request the one year extension beyond six years at the same time that you recapture time ...
adjustment of status12/4/2008
  Q: My fiance and I are about to be married we have a child together, he is from Trinidad Tobago we met ...
  A: Upon marriage, you can sponsor your husband so that he can continue to remain in the U.S. until his ...
COS and Visa change from H1 to L212/3/2008
  Q: I was on L2 visa since my Husband is on L1 visa. I applied for my EAD and took up a job here in US. ...
  A: Since the EAD application is not a request for change of status, An EAD application can be filed and ...
COS and Visa change from H1 to L212/2/2008
  Q: I was on L2 visa since my Husband is on L1 visa. I applied for my EAD and took up a job here in US. ...
  A: Since you can hold only one status at a time in the U.S., and since the latest action by the USCIS ...
Canadian student in US12/1/2008
  Q: I am returning to the US after holidays, and I forgot to bring the paper I-94(? )study permit/ form ...
  A: You may have meant Form I-20, which is required for students in F1 or M1 status. You must have this ...
Immigrant Intent11/24/2008
  Q: could you explain immigrant intent? When is it established?
  A: When you enter the U.S., your intention should comport with the visa stamp in your passport. For ...
re -entering US with H4 when H1 rejected11/20/2008
  Q: My wife got H4 ext in July and H1 in OCt.she did not got the job yet and she has got only one pay ...
  A: Your wife is technically violating H4 status if she is not employed by her H1B employer. I recommend ...
H4 stamping with valid L111/19/2008
  Q: Rightnow I'm in India and I have a L1 visa stamp valid till 2011 for my employer in india. I ...
  A: In most cases, the Consulate will cancel the L1 visa stamp if it issues you the H4 visa stamp. If ...
I-48511/17/2008
  Q: I have been on H1 for one year, before that I was on F1 visa. For the last three months I have been ...
  A: Apply at this time as a regular AOS applicant. If the USCIS later determines that you were in ...
EAD and Leave11/13/2008
  Q: I am the primary applicant of my GC which is filed on the basis of employment. My 140 is cleared and ...
  A: It is OK to have gaps in your payroll. The I-485 will be approved based on an offer of permanent, ...
EAD and Leave11/12/2008
  Q: I am the primary applicant of my GC which is filed on the basis of employment. My 140 is cleared and ...
  A: We cannot comment on the FMLA as it is not directly connected with immigration law. However, as a ...
485 & AC 2111/6/2008
  Q: I was working with Company A from Jan 2004 and had my I-140 approved in Oct 2006. I moved to another ...
  A: Your I-485 should be approved, if you have the support of Employer A (they have not revoked the ...
H1 Extension pending11/4/2008
  Q: Below are my details, H1 expiry date - 30Mar 2008 Extension applied - Feb 2008 Got RFE - July 2008 ...
  A: You must temporarily suspend employment with the company after 240 days, but you can still remain ...
Immigration issues11/3/2008
  Q: I am married to a H1B visa holder and I have been to US on H4. Later I got separated and living ...
  A: If your H1B approval notice states that you have been granted change of status, then you are ...
H1B Stamping - Need Advice10/30/2008
  Q: My status was changed from L1 to H1 on october 2008. i need my H1 visa stamped . am getting married ...
  A: You can go to either your home country, or to any U.S. Consulate in Canada or Mexico, for H1B visa ...
L2-H4-F110/28/2008
  Q: I came in July,2008 on L2 visa as my husband was on L1B. My husband got a H1 COS approval on ...
  A: An application to change status to F1 can be filed now, but the USCIS will not grant change of ...
H1B Transfer at the time of H1B extension10/20/2008
  Q: My present H1B visa expired on March 30,2008,I-94 on April 10 2008.My company has applied my ...
  A: You can work for your present employer (Company A) for up to 240 days after March 30, 2008. Company ...
H1 transfer10/16/2008
  Q: I have a question for you, i have come to US on a H1b of a company A 2months ago and have not been ...
  A: When Co. B files an H1B petition for you requesting extension of your H1B status, the USCIS would ...
no interview letter yet10/9/2008
  Q: .. i got married sept 2006 and in january i applied for a change of status, and my husband filed a ...
  A: You should have received a receipt notice from the USCIS for Forms I-130 (Petition for alien ...
H1B TRANSFER, PERM10/8/2008
  Q: I'm under H1B one year already, and three months ago my employer filed a Labor Certification (no ...
  A: Unfortunately, the Labor Certification (also known as PERM) cannot be transferred to the new ...
Student10/7/2008
  Q: My friend has I140 approved in July 08. The immigration send a letter regarding I485 asking to ...
  A: If there was a violation of immigration status at any time in the past for more than 180 days, the ...
L1A - H1 & H410/2/2008
  Q: I have L1A for a company based in India. L1A is valid till 2011. Meanwhile another company filed for ...
  A: If you enter the U.S. on L1 visa, in order to activate H1B visa status, you can apply for H1B visa ...
I-94 return date.9/29/2008
  Q: 1> My mom's 10 yr visa to US expires Apr 2009. She is planning on visiting US in Dec 2008. In the ...
  A: I do not recommend that your mother enter the U.S. on a visitor visa if you have already applied for ...
J-1 to F-19/25/2008
  Q: Mr. Arora, my friend's J-1 visa (no 2 year home residence requirement) is expiring in a few days, ...
  A: My recommendation is that the change of status application be filed requesting change of status from ...
HELP ME!!!9/23/2008
  Q: I have been with my current illegal boyfriend for almost 2 years and now i am pregnant and due in ...
  A: Even if you sponsor your husband (you would be required to marry your boyfriend in order to ...
Graduate studies during Green Card processing9/18/2008
  Q: Arora, Your answers to other posts have been very helpful and insightful. I would greatly ...
  A: If an immigrant petition is filed for you, F1 visa status will probably not be issued since F visa ...
permanent green card9/15/2008
  Q: I have received my temporary green card, pending a permanent one in about two years. My husband and ...
  A: Your conditional resident status will expire 2 years after issuance of conditional resident card. ...
Change of Status9/10/2008
  Q: If a person has an expired H-1 visa, and now wishes to marry a green card holder, can he get a work ...
  A: Upon marriage, an I-130 petition (petition for alien relative) can be filed by the green card holder ...
H1B transfer to H49/9/2008
  Q: I have received new I-94 along with my H1 approval.I have not worked since then due to pregnancy and ...
  A: You are violating your H1B status since you are not currently employed by the H1B employer (and it ...
L1B to H1B9/8/2008
  Q: I am working L1B for my current employer and have filed for a L1B to H1B transfer through a ...
  A: You will automatically be in H1B status on October 01 (if the H1B employer requested "change of ...
Employment / family immigration9/3/2008
  Q: Arora, My first 3-yr H-1B will expire on Jan 14 2009. It is unlikely that my employer will sponsor ...
  A: You can be sponsored through the filing of a Form I-130 petition by either your sister (F4 ...
EB28/29/2008
  Q: I hope you are doing well. I have my bachelors (computer engineering - 06/2005) and masters (MBA ...
  A: An H1B petition can be filed on April 01, 2009 under the master's visa cap, and hopefully you will ...
Petition I-130 for Adult Daughter8/26/2008
  Q: Hello, I've moved to the US last year with a F1 Visa to study (fulltime) in order to get my Masters. ...
  A: If your parents or brother file an I-130 petition (Petition for Alien Relative) for you, it will ...
Canadian Coming to USA8/21/2008
  Q: My fiancee lives in Canada, I live in the USA. He would like to come to the USA to see how things go ...
  A: Assuming that your fiancee is a Canadian citizen, he can enter the U.S. without a visa. He cannot be ...
H1b to Green card through a for profit but working in a not for profit organization?8/18/2008
  Q: I am currently a medical resident on H1b not under the cap going to be done with residency June 2009 ...
  A: Unfortunately, in the scenario described you would be subject to the visa cap, and therefore the ...
f 1 rejected ,can re enter on h48/13/2008
  Q: I am on H4 which is valid till October,I am planning to go to Mexico for F1 stamping,i want to know ...
  A: If the F1 visa stamp is not issued by the U.S. Consulate in Mexico, you can enter on existing H4 ...
OPT to H1B8/12/2008
  Q: I am an F1 student on OPT. My OPT started from June 2008 and ending on June 2009. I have my H1b ...
  A: If the H1B approval notice (Form I-797) issued by the USCIS indicates that you have been granted ...
Immigration8/7/2008
  Q: I am planning to change my status from H-1 to F-1 but my credit score is really bad so it that ...
  A: The USCIS does not check credit score when adjudicating application to change status to F1. You ...
F-1 student visa seeking to marry U.S. citizen8/5/2008
  Q: I am in a long term relationship with a U.S. citizen. We met in 2005 and lived together in London ...
  A: Yes, you can get married on an F1 visa and be sponsored by your spouse as well. You will receive ...
B2 to F18/4/2008
  Q: I have been accepted for a masters program in a leading university . I am here in US on a B2 visa ...
  A: The university will issue you an acceptance letter and Form I-20. You will complete Form I-539 ...
Immigration7/29/2008
  Q: I was working on H-1 from Oct 2007 and I transfer to another consulting company on Dec 2007 and now ...
  A: H1B status is employer-specific. However, multiple employers can file an H1B petition for you, and ...
f2/h1 visa7/22/2008
  Q: I had rejected H1 visa(2007), now i want to apply for F2 visa(since my husband is on F1), .......my ...
  A: My recommendation is that an H1B petition should not be pending with the USCIS when you apply for F2 ...
Can I apply for ead?7/21/2008
  Q: MY question is that i have a old labor cert approved with date of january 2001 and a new labor cert ...
  A: Check the priority date on the I-140 approval notice...it will be written there. Then check to see ...
F1 stamping in mexico7/19/2008
  Q: I am currently working in the US on H1 that is valid until sep 15 2010 (H1 was stamped in the ...
  A: Yes, in your scenario you can enter the U.S. on existing H1B visa stamped in your passport that is ...
immigration issue6/30/2008
  Q: sir/you always helps us to deasi peoples specially indian/pakistani because you understand our ...
  A: The I-824 should be filed with the USCIS requesting the USCIS to notify the Consulate in your home ...
H4 Visa - Required Documents6/24/2008
  Q: Ajay, I am planning to apply for H4. My husband recently transffered his H1 from one company to ...
  A: You should apply for H-4 visa directly at the nearest U.S. Consulate. Carry with you copy of the ...
EB2 Query6/23/2008
  Q: Hope you had a great vacation. I applied for 140/485 in last July.I have a 4 yr bachelors and about ...
  A: EB-2 eligibility can be based on either