19 Feb 2025

I am currently in H1B status. If I file an application to change status to H-4 together with an H-4 EAD application, will both cases be approved at the same time? I am trying to avoid a gap in my employment authorization.

Answer Normally, the H-4 EAD application is approved at the same time, or shortly after, the H-4 change-of-status application. However, there is no way to guarantee this. (18.Feb.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services,...

14 Feb 2025

Change in Requirements to Qualify for DropBox Appointments in India

Last month, the U.S. Department of State quietly changed the eligibility requirements for nonimmigrant visa applicants in India seeking an interview waiver (commonly referred to as “dropbox” appointments). These changes, which appear to have been made without a formal announcement, are outlined on the U.S....

05 Feb 2025

I am in the U.S. in L1A status and my family is here on L-2. We were all born in India. My eldest daughter is 18. If my employer files an EB1 case for me now, will she be able to get a green card through me, or will she age out?

Answer In your situation, there is actually no way to know for certain whether your daughter will age out at this stage. You likely would not know for a number of years. There are a couple of things you may be able to do to help...

29 Jan 2025

While my H-4 extension was still pending, I traveled outside the U.S. When I returned, my I-94 was extended based on my husband’s new I-797. A couple of months later, the USCIS denied my H-4 extension. In the denial, the USCIS said I no longer needed the extension because I traveled. Will this denial be seen as a black mark in my record?

Answer No, this is no cause for concern. A denial in this situation normally would neither create any type of immigration problem, nor be viewed negatively by immigration officials. (28.Jan.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE...

15 Jan 2025

I am scheduled to apply for an H1B visa stamp next month in Chennai, but my project ended. Can I use the same appointment slot to apply for a H-4 visa instead?

Answer You typically need to cancel the existing appointment, and schedule a new appointment with a new DS-160 (indicating the appointment is for H-4.) It may be possible to reuse the fee. (15.Jan.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information...

15 Jan 2025

I mailed my application to a USCIS lockbox weeks ago, but I have not yet received a receipt, and my filing fee has not been cashed. How do I contact USCIS about my missing case, since I do not even have a receipt number to reference?

Answer It is possible to eMail USCIS lockbox support at lockboxsupport@uscis.dhs.gov to inquire about a filing that has not yet been receipted. You should include the form number, petitioner or applicant name, date of birth, and mailing address, as well as the lockbox the package was...