Guide 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…

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B-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…

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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…

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NOC 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…

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Traveling 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…

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Name Change at the Time of Naturalization

Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization is a significant milestone, and for many, it presents an opportunity to change their name legally. The option to change your name during the naturalization process is a convenient choice, but is it the best one? In this blog, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of changing your…

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USCIS 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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When Can a Petitioner Reject a U.S. Worker Due to Training Infeasibility?

In the context of employment-based immigration petitions, U.S. employers must demonstrate a thorough and genuine effort to hire U.S. workers before seeking foreign talent. This process is governed by the Program Electronic Review Management (PERM), a labor certification process managed by the Department of Labor (DOL). PERM ensures that hiring a foreign worker does not…

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Can Conditional Permanent Residents Petition for Unmarried Children?

As a conditional permanent resident, many find themselves wondering about their ability to petition for their unmarried children, especially if the marriage to a U.S. citizen occurred after the child’s 18th birthday. This is a common concern for those navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration law. Here, we will explore the options and legal provisions…

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DOS 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…

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