General
Modernizing H-1B and Nonimmigrant Visa Regulations
On December 18, 2024, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will publish a final rule in the Federal Register introducing key updates to the H-1B program and other nonimmigrant visa categories. These regulations aim to modernize the program, enhance flexibility for petitioners and beneficiaries, and strengthen program integrity. The rule is set to take…
Read MoreSupreme Court Confirms Limited Judicial Review for Visa Revocations
The U.S. Supreme Court recently issued a landmark decision in Bouarfa v. Mayorkas, clarifying the discretionary authority of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to revoke previously approved visa petitions. The Court’s ruling reaffirms the broad powers granted to the Secretary of Homeland Security under 8 U.S.C. §1155, emphasizing that such decisions are discretionary and…
Read MoreThe Future of H-4 EAD Under the Incoming Trump Administration: Implications and Options
As a new Trump administration looms on the horizon, concerns are rising within the immigrant community and among employers regarding the future of the H-4 Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The H-4 EAD, which allows certain spouses of H-1B visa holders to work in the United States, has been under scrutiny in the past and could…
Read MorePreparing for changes to H-1B Program under Trump administration
Following Donald Trump’s victory, the U.S. immigration landscape—especially for employment-based visas like the H-1B—is set to change under the incoming administration, which begins in January 2025. During his previous term, the Trump administration enacted significant policy shifts in employment-based immigration, and these changes may provide insight into potential restrictions moving forward. Notably, Trump advisors, including…
Read MoreGuide to Social Security Numbers (SSN) for Foreign Nationals in the United States
Obtaining a Social Security Number (SSN) is a critical step for foreign nationals authorized to work in the U.S., as it serves as an essential identifier for income reporting, tax filing, and other federal processes. This guide provides an overview of how foreign nationals can apply for an SSN, work while awaiting issuance, and upgrade…
Read MoreB-2 Visas for Parents of F-1 Students and Elderly Parents Joining Families
For many families, having a parent or extended family member join them in the U.S. can make a big difference, especially when it comes to supporting a child attending school or caring for an elderly parent. But what happens when these family members don’t qualify for a dependent visa? This is where the B-2 visitor…
Read MoreVolunteering While on a Non-Immigrant Status: What You Need to Know
Navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration laws can be challenging, especially when it comes to understanding what activities are permissible under a non-immigrant status. One common question we receive at Sharma Law Offices, LLC, is whether individuals on non-immigrant visas, which do not allow work authorization, can engage in volunteer activities. Understanding the U.S. Department…
Read MoreNOC Requirement for U.S. Citizens Marrying in India
If you are a U.S. citizen planning to get married in India, you may have encountered a requirement from local marriage registration offices for a No Objection Certificate (NOC). This certificate is requested to confirm that there is no legal impediment to the marriage. While this might seem like a routine administrative process, obtaining an…
Read MoreTraveling with an Expired Green Card: What You Need to Know Before You Fly
In the previous blog we had discussed what documents a lawful permanent resident needs to carry when traveling abroad. In this blog we will discuss how traveling abroad can raise concerns when it comes to your documentation—especially if your Green Card has expired. It’s crucial to understand the requirements and steps you need to take…
Read MoreUSCIS Announces Second Round of H-1B Cap Selections for FY 2025
In a recent update, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a second round of H-1B cap selections for the fiscal year (FY) 2025. This decision comes after the initial random selection conducted in March, which included beneficiaries eligible for the advanced degree exemption. The initial filing period for those with selected…
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