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When your green card application is pending, even routine international travel can quickly turn into a legal gray area. At VKM Law Group, we often advise clients navigating this stage of the immigration process to proceed with caution—especially when deciding whether to travel on Advance Parole or maintain H-1B status. While Advance Parole offers flexibility, it’s not without risk. In many cases, continuing on H-1B status can offer stronger legal protection and predictability. In this post, we’ll walk you through the key differences, risks, and best practices to help you make an informed decision. What Is Advance Parole? Advance Parole is a travel...

In a recent development that’s sending ripples across Indian applicants eyeing US visas, the United States has rolled out a fresh restriction: if you’re applying for a visa from the US, you now likely have to go back to your home country to apply. The change undermines flexibility and complicates what was already a soul-testing process.   What’s Changed, Exactly? No More Applying Abroad: As it stands, most visa applicants can’t use third countries (e.g. while on study/work/travel visas elsewhere) for visa interviews. You’ll have to return to India (or your country of citizenship) for processing. Exceptions Are Few & Far Between:...

If you’re an international student aiming for study in the U.S., there are important changes proposed that could affect your plans. As your visa/immigration counsel, VKM is keeping a close eye on these developments. Here’s a breakdown — and how to navigate them. What’s Changing Fixed Maximum Duration The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed replacing the existing “Duration of Status” rule for F-1 student visas with a fixed 4-year cap. That means, under the new regulation, your visa would expire after four years, no matter how long your program is supposed to take. End of “Flexible Stay Until...