As international students holding F-1 visas prepare to graduate, many apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to receive employment authorization for a year or more. Who Qualifies for STEM Extension? Although Optional Practical Training for some F-1 students is restricted to 12 months, other international students will qualify for an additional 17 months of OPT…
For international managers and executives seeking lawful permanent residence and – ultimately – naturalized citizenship in the United States, the EB-1C visa is an alternative to the EB-5 visa. What Are the Benefits of EB-1C Visa? This visa provides a green card immediately and without the need to make an investment or to create jobs…
In 2014, a survey conducted by the University of Pennsylvania named the Brookings Institution as the most influential think tank in the world. Brookings is one of Washington’s oldest and most prestigious “think tanks.” It conducts research and education in economics, foreign policy, and global development with the aims of strengthening democracy, fostering economic security…
A federal appeals court has determined that an undocumented immigrant cannot be deported back to Mexico because she identifies as a transgender woman. This brings to light the issue of gender discrimination in immigration law. Gender Discrimination Claim Edin Carey Avendano-Hernandez claims that her gender identification makes her a target for torture back in her…
You’ve likely heard of USCIS or received some communication from them, but what is this agency and what does it do? If you have any questions or concerns about immigration, or if you’re involved in any legal dispute over your immigration rights or status, you need to consult at once with an experienced Columbus immigration…
It’s been said that undocumented immigrants in America are “people in the shadows,” but the nonprofit South Asian Network (SAN) is trying to bring some light into those shadows in the Los Angeles area, especially when it comes to health care. According to their own website: “South Asian Network was founded in 1990 to provide…
The number of undocumented immigrants seeking asylum in the United States is skyrocketing, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Asylum Requires “Credible Fear” Undocumented asylum seekers must persuade a federal asylum officer that they have a “credible fear” of returning to their home countries. By claiming they face harm or even death if…
The Trust Act could quickly become law in California. As of October 1, Governor Jerry Brown still has two weeks to sign or to veto the Trust Act. Under one of its provisions, police officers in California would be barred from helping to deport most undocumented immigrants. Trust Act: Support and Criticism Supporters of the…
Asylum is a form of protection offered by governments to individuals who fear persecution in their home country. To qualify for asylum in the United States, a person must demonstrate a fear of persecution that is well founded and based on the person’s political opinions, religion, nationality, race, or membership in a specific group. Doing…
When an application or petition for immigration matters is denied or revoked, the party seeking approval of the application or petition is allowed to appeal the decision to the appropriate appellate body. Possible Outcomes of an Appeal When presented with an appeal, the appellate body may uphold, reverse, or remand the decision. Here is what…