General Nonimmigrant Visa
Laid off H-1B filing B-2 extension for job search explained
Question details
Could you please briefly explain the process and the basis for filing for B-2 extension for job search? Is it the same I-539 form and process? And do we need an attorney for this?
FAQ Transcript
The process for filing a B2 extension for job searching after an H1B layoff is the same as the initial B2 application, using Form I-539. However, the supporting letter and evidence should detail your job search efforts, including companies contacted and resumes sent, and demonstrate sufficient financial resources to avoid unauthorized employment. While an attorney isn't strictly necessary for most cases, it can provide peace of mind, especially if you have the means. If you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE), you can always hire an attorney at that stage.
Day 1 CPT and F-1 visa stamping
Question details
My STEM OPT expires in October 2025 and my H1b has not picked in the lottery in the 3 attempts. I want to know what options do I have to continue working for my current employer? The most common option I have been recommended is Day1 CPT. I need to travel to India in November 2025 for my wedding and wanted to know what process should I follow getting a F1 stamp/ restamp under Day1 CPT. Also, are there any other options that I can use to continue working for existing employer and still be able to travel to India in November.
Main concern is F1 stamp/ restamp on Day1 CPT. What can I do on my end to ensure successful stamping? Or can should I travel to India now when I have valid STEM OPT to get a stamping under the current F1 status.
Another option I came across is Open Avenues, where I get a cap exempt H1B visa for part time job and I can continue my full time role alongside it. What are your thoughts on this option and what do stamping success rates look under this option?
FAQ Transcript
Generally, pursuing day one CPT and then going for F-1 visa stamping carries a higher risk of denial. While the outcome depends on the visa officer's judgment, selecting a course of study under CPT that aligns with and furthers your career is the primary recommendation to potentially improve your chances.
Rajiv's Comments in the News - International Students In Jeopardy As Visas Are Revoked
Published by: Galveston County Daily News - April 22, 2025
https://www.galvnews.com/international-students-in-jeopardy-as-visas-ar…
Quotes and Excerpts from Rajiv in the article:
Rajiv's Comments in the News - By Weaponizing Arrest Records and Suspending Due Process, the Trump Administration Has Targeted Over 1,000 Foreign Students
Published by: Drop Site News - April 20, 2025
https://www.dropsitenews.com/p/deportation-students-ice-dhs-visas
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Rajiv's Comments in CNBC TV 18 - Trump administration disbands immigration helpdesk that helped H-1B and green card applicants
Published by: CNBC TV 18 - April 12, 2025
https://www.cnbctv18.com/education/trump-administration-disbands-immigr…
Quotes and Excerpts from Rajiv in the article:
Rajiv's Comments in the News - US shuts immigration help desk in big setback for H-1B, green card hopefuls
Published by: Business Standard - April 10, 2025
https://shorturl.at/eriAx
Quotes and Excerpts from Rajiv in the article:
Extending B-1/B-2 visa for mother with health concerns – Options for caregiving in the US
Question details
The question is regarding my mother, who comes on B1/B2 every 6 months. My father expired during the COVID-19 pandemic, and she stays alone in India. My brother and I both live in the US. He is on an H1B visa, and I am on an H4 visa. My mom is also suffering from arthritis and is not able to walk much.
Is there a way we can extend her B1/B2 instead of sending her back to India? She has nobody to look after, and we are under a lot of stress as we are settled here and can't be in India for six months.
FAQ Transcript
Yes, it may be possible for the mother to obtain a B-1/B-2 visa and potentially extend her stay in the US to help her children who are on H-1 visas. While not explicitly stated in law, there's a policy principle, often related to "cohabiting partners" as outlined in the State Department's Foreign Affairs Manual, that allows for B-1/B-2 visas in situations where close relationships exist, but dependents don't qualify for F-2 or H-4 status (like a parent of an H-1B holder).
This approach has been used successfully in the past for extended stays. However, it's not guaranteed and can be subject to the discretion of individual immigration officers. There's a risk of encountering issues or receiving requests for further evidence that may not make sense, requiring further action.
Rajiv's Comments in the News - US Silences Immigrant Lifeline: Thousands of H-1B, Green Card Applicants Left Stranded
Published by: The Munsif Daily - April 09, 2025
https://munsifdaily.com/us-silences-immigrant-lifeline/
Quotes and Excerpts from Rajiv in the article:
Withdrawing pending I-539 after H-4 visa stamping and new I-94 issuance
Question details
My spouse traveled to India and successfully completed her H4 visa stamping at the US consulate, which is now valid for next 2 years. Prior to her departure, she submitted an I-539 application for an H4 extension with USCIS. However, since she is returning to the United States, she will receive a new I-94 upon her arrival. Given that her I-539 application is still pending with USCIS, I would like to know the process for withdrawing the I-539 application.
We have filed her I-539 application online and it is still pending with USCIS.
We want to avoid any potential conflicts with her I-94 status in case USCIS approves her application after she arrives back in the US (new I-94 that she will receive at port entry and old I-94 if USCIS approves).
FAQ Transcript
If an I-539 application (likely for H-4 extension in this context) is pending and the applicant travels outside the US and obtains an H-4 visa stamp, the pending I-539 is automatically abandoned. However, it's advisable to formally withdraw the I-539 to ensure clean records. To do this, the individual should contact USCIS customer service and request the withdrawal. They may be instructed to send a notarized letter, or it might be possible to do it over the phone.