Can my spouse obtain an H-4 visa stamp if my H-1B extension is currently pending?
Yes. An H-4 visa appointment can be scheduled and processed regardless of the specific expiration date on your current H-1B stamp, provided your underlying H-1B status is maintained.
Does the "90-day rule" allow me to change from B-1/B-2 to H-4 status inside the US?
No. The "90-day rule" is a misconception; USCIS always evaluates the intent behind your entry. Entering with the intention to change status can be viewed as misrepresentation. It is generally safer to process your visa stamp outside the US.
Should I switch to a PhD program to use day-one CPT for employment, or rely on H-1B/L-1 processes?
Due to immigration uncertainty, it is advisable to plan only one step ahead. If you pursue a PhD with CPT, select a flexible program where CPT is not rigidly bound to an immediate start. If your employment is with a multinational company, explore L-1 visa options, as they offer distinct benefits, including automatic work authorization for spouses.
Published by: The Times of India - June 04, 2026
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/what-trumps-green-card-changes-mean-for-millions-of-indians-seeking-permanent-residency-in-us/articleshow/131505473.cms
Quotes and Excerpts from Rajiv in the article:
Rajiv S. Khanna, US Immigration attorney, provides free immigration help by hosting a free community conference call for US immigration-related questions every Thursday. You can post questions for the call if you are a member of our US Immigration forums. Membership is immediate and lifelong. Walk-ins are also permitted.
Published by: The Times of India - June 02, 2026
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/nri/some-uscis-officers-ask-green-card-applicants-why-they-bypassed-consular-processing/articleshow/131464679.cms
Quotes and Excerpts from Rajiv in the article:
Recently updated USCIS form:
Form G-1055, Fee Schedule 05/29/2026 09:52 AM EDT
Edition Date: 05/29/26. You can find the edition date at the bottom of the page of Form G-1055, Fee Schedule.
For more information, please visit the Forms Updates page.
On May 21, 2026, USCIS issued Policy Memorandum PM-602-0199. It does not repeal a single immigration statute. It creates no new law. But if you have a green card application pending inside the United States, or you are planning to file one, this memo may be the most consequential policy action you have not yet heard about. And when you read what the government's own spokesman said about it, you will understand that this is not a technical policy adjustment. It is a declaration of intent.
Rajiv S. Khanna, US Immigration attorney, provides free immigration help by hosting a free community conference call for US immigration-related questions every Thursday. You can post questions for the call if you are a member of our US Immigration forums. Membership is immediate and lifelong. Walk-ins are also permitted.