USCIS Assists in Investigation Leading to Conviction of Indian Citizen for Submitting Fraudulent Immigration Application

Release Date 

05/05/2025

BURLINGTON, Vt. – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services provided valuable assistance to the investigation that led to the conviction of an Indian citizen for submitting a fraudulent immigration application.

USCIS Updated Forms - I-526, Immigrant Petition by Standalone Investor and other Forms

USCIS recently updated the following forms :

Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant

01/20/2025 12:58 PM EST

Edition Date: 01/20/25. Starting May 28, 2025, USCIS will accept only the 01/20/25 edition. Until then, you can also use the 04/01/24 edition. You can find the edition date at the bottom of the page on the form and instructions.

Form I-800A, Application for Determination of Suitability to Adopt a Child from a Convention Country

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?

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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?

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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.

Impact of errors in tax return; IRS payment plans

Question details

I have not gotten to the stage of I-485 filing, but I had a general question. Let's say I accidentally put some wrong information in my tax returns, then I assume IRS will contact me about it. As long as I am on a payment plan with them, and pay everything I owe properly, would it still affect my I-485 approval chance? I am just worried about any unintentional errors from my end.

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FAQ Transcript

Dealing with IRS issues, such as a payment plan due to errors in tax returns, should generally not negatively impact your I-485 application as long as you are actively in the process of correcting the situation.