H-1B Work Visa
Volunteering 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 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…
Read MoreDOS Eases Nonimmigrant Visa Waiver Adjudication for U.S. College Graduates
On July 15, 2024, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced a significant update to the Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM), aimed at simplifying the nonimmigrant visa waiver process for foreign nationals who have graduated from U.S. universities. This move, part of the broader efforts by the Biden-Harris Administration, is designed to facilitate the entry of…
Read MoreVolunteering on a Non-Immigrant Status: Key Points 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 like B-1, B-2, H-4, F-2, J-2, etc., which do not allow work authorization, can engage…
Read MoreOptions after missing H-1B Lottery
For many international students and professionals aspiring to work in the United States, the H-1B visa represents a critical gateway. However, the demand for H-1B visas often exceeds the available supply, leading to a competitive lottery system. For those not selected, understanding the history and exploring alternative options is essential to continuing their professional journey…
Read MoreHow to Schedule an Emergency Advance Parole
Navigating the intricacies of U.S. immigration laws and regulations can be daunting, especially when it comes to traveling outside of the United States for those who are not yet U.S. citizens but are in the process of adjusting their status. One key tool in this process is the Advance Parole document, which allows individuals who…
Read MoreEAD Renewal: USCIS Extends Automatic Extension Period
In a significant move aimed at enhancing the work permit process for noncitizens, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced a pivotal temporary final rule (TFR) that extends the automatic extension period of certain Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). Previously set at up to 180 days, the extension will now potentially reach up to…
Read MoreNavigating the Path to an EB-1C Green Card for H-1B Visa Holders from India: A Strategic Guide
In the landscape of U.S. immigration, professionals from India face an arduous journey towards permanent residency, particularly through the EB-2 and EB-3 employment-based green card categories, which are backlogged by decades. However, the EB-1C category emerges as a beacon of hope, offering a comparatively faster route for those in managerial or executive roles. Traditionally associated…
Read MoreWhat Should You Do If Your I-485 Application Is Denied?
Discovering that your I-485 application, also known as the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, has been denied can be a disheartening experience. However, it’s crucial to remember that a denial is not the end of the road. There are multiple steps you can take to address the situation. Here, we explore the…
Read MoreImmigration document requirements for non-US citizens in the U.S
In the United States, immigration laws mandate that all non-U.S. citizens carry proof of their legal status. This requirement, rooted in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), emphasizes the importance of having immediate access to documentation that verifies one’s right to be in the U.S. Whether you are a visitor, a student, or a permanent…
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