Recording for May 23, 2024 Conference Call with Rajiv S. Khanna
Nonimmigrant Visas
Green Card
FAQs: Options when H-1B project is canceled || B-2 visa dilemma: Extend or switch to CPT for PERM/I-140 || Procedure to recapture H-1B/L-1 time outside the U.S.
Procedure to recapture H-1B/L-1 time outside the U.S.
During the last three years on H-1B, I have spent approximately one year outside of the US (multiple visits to India). What is the procedure to recapture that time and add it back to my H-1B total time?
You can recapture your H-1B time (one year) by requesting it during your next extension application. There's no deadline, and you might even recapture a full year if you exceed six months out. Documentation like passport stamps is needed.
B-2 visa dilemma: Extend or switch to CPT for PERM/I-140
I am currently on a B2 status and waiting for PERM approval. I have extended my B2 once, and I still think I would need another six months until my perm and I140 get approved. I need your suggestion in making a decision:
Should I move to day 1 CPT OR extend my B2 for another six months?
Which one will be the best option so I don’t get any RFEs from USCIS in the future?
I have another question: My parents and brother have their B2 visa interview scheduled for May 31st. If they ask my parents about me, is it a good idea to mention my situation in the interview?
If you are on a B-2 visa waiting for PERM approval. You can choose between:
Day 1 CPT: Allows you to work while studying but requires school enrollment.
B-2 extension: Extends your stay but may not allow work. Choosing depends on your work needs and ability to enroll in school.
Regarding your parents' visa interview, advise them to answer truthfully about your situation. Don't misrepresent information to USCIS.
Options when H-1B project is canceled
Scenario: Currently working for company A. Company B has filed H1B petition and gotten approval for Oct 1st start date. Unfortunately, Project with company B goes away before Oct 1 and company B doesn't revoke my visa before Oct 1st.
1) Since I will automatically move to H1B on Oct 1st and I don't have that project anymore, can I continue to work for my current employer using the new H1B visa? (What options I have if I want to use the new H1B visa and work for the same employer?)
2) In the same case, will company A be notified about my new H1B visa on Oct 1st?
3) Will company A have to rehire me for H-1B transfer? or can I continue to work with them while the transfer is pending?
4) How would it work if I find a new project through a new company C? Would they need to file for H-1B transfer as well ?
5) What info can USCIS ask for H-1B transfer in that case? What sort of RFEs may come up?
You can't work for your current employer (Company A) on the new H-1B. File an H-1B transfer to Company A. USCIS won't notify them. Consider a lawyer consultation to possibly keep working at A while the transfer is pending.
May 24, 2024, Rajiv in QnA session on behalf of students, young professionals
Immigration.com
Nonimmigrant Visas
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mmigration.com, Law Offices of Rajiv S. Khanna PC, US Immigration Attorney
Rajiv's Article - Is it a good idea for laid off H-1B workers to switch to a US tourist visa, and back again?
Published by: The Economic Times - Date: May 25, 2024
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/migrate/is-it-a-good-idea-for-…
Synopsis
Benefits of National Interest Waiver
Two general questions,
1. What are the benefits of filing an EB2 NIW for a person whose I-140 has already been approved by an employer in the same category apart from NIW, not depending on your employer? Also, can you get your I140 approved priority date to your NIW?
2. Is it possible to renew the H-1B visa stamp before expiration? For example, if my H1B expires on November 1st and I apply for a visa stamp in October with approved extension I797, Would I be able to renew it?
While an approved I-140 with an employer offers some benefits, an EB-2 NIW grants portability - you can keep your green card across job changes in your field. It also allows extending your H-1B past the 6-year limit and enables your spouse to work and travel with you. For those with backlogged priority dates (e.g., India), NIW can help with I-130 petitions in specific situations. If your I-140 is approved already, the main advantage of NIW becomes self-sponsorship. Finally, you can renew your H-1B visa stamp before expiry, though consulate lead times (like four months) might apply.