Blog Archives

Welcome to Visa Focus Friday, where we spotlight key employment-based visas in U.S. immigration. Each week, we provide insights into visa categories for foreign workers, helping to navigate the complexities of the immigration process.

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Chasing Dreams: Immigrants in Sports and Entertainment

5/29/2025

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Chasing Dreams: Immigrants in Sports and Entertainment is a series dedicated to highlighting the remarkable stories of athletes, creatives, and performers who have come to the United States in pursuit of their dreams. Through their journeys, we celebrate the resilience, passion, and determination that drive success across various industries.

This week, we spotlight Eddie Van Halen, the Dutch-born rock legend whose journey from Europe to the American stage transformed the landscape of music forever. His innovation, artistry, and immigrant spirit continue to inspire generations.

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How Your Immigration Status Affects Your Ability to Start a Business in the U.S.

Many foreign nationals in the U.S. are highly skilled, entrepreneurial, and full of great ideas — but starting a business while on a visa is not as simple as forming an LLC. Your work visa may limit or outright prohibit certain types of entrepreneurial activity.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Most Work Visas Tie You to One Employer

If you're on an H-1B, L-1, O-1, or similar employment-based visa, your authorization to work is generally restricted to the sponsoring employer. That means:

You cannot freelance or consult on the side
You cannot actively manage or operate your own company without specific authorization
Passive investment (owning shares but not working for the company) is sometimes allowed — but must be structured carefully

2. “Working for Yourself” Is a Legal Minefield

You might think: “I’ll just form an LLC and work for my own company.” But USCIS sees through that quickly. To sponsor yourself on an H-1B, for example, your company must show a true employer-employee relationship — with someone other than you having control over your employment (think: a board of directors or independent manager).

Without that separation, USCIS is likely to deny the petition.

3. Violation of Work Restrictions = Status Violation

If you start a business while on a visa that doesn’t permit self-employment, you could be:

Violating your status
Jeopardizing future immigration benefits
At risk of denial in future petitions or green card filings

Even unpaid work or volunteering for your own company can be considered unauthorized employment if it benefits the business.

4. Alternatives Exist — But Planning Is Key

If you’re serious about entrepreneurship, consider:

Changing to a visa category that permits self-employment (like E-2 for certain investors)
Having a U.S. citizen or green card holder run the business while you stay a passive investor
Applying for an O-1 if your achievements support an entrepreneurial role
Working toward a green card that allows unrestricted employment (EB-1, EB-2 NIW, etc.)

Each path has pros, cons, and timing considerations — and requires clear planning to stay compliant.

Dream Big — But Stay Within Legal Boundaries

Starting a business is an exciting idea, but if you're in the U.S. on a visa, immigration laws make it more complex than most people realize. Before you register that LLC or launch a side project, get immigration counsel to protect both your vision and your status.

At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we help foreign professionals navigate work visa limitations while exploring entrepreneurial pathways.

For tailored guidance, contact us at [email protected].

If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes.

The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].

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Tuesday Immigration Update

5/27/2025

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USCIS Extends Automatic EAD Renewals to 540 Days

On April 4, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published a Temporary Final Rule that extends the automatic extension period for certain Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) from 180 days to 540 days. This policy, which took effect on April 8, 2024, is intended to reduce employment disruptions caused by processing delays and will remain in effect through September 30, 2025.

This update is particularly relevant for individuals awaiting EAD renewals and employers managing I-9 compliance responsibilities.

Key Points of the USCIS EAD Extension Rule:

✔ Who Is Eligible

The automatic 540-day extension applies to individuals who:

Timely filed Form I-765 renewal applications before their current EAD expired, and
Fall within one of the eligible categories listed in 8 CFR 274a.12 (including certain H-4, L-2, E-1/E-2 spouses, TPS beneficiaries, pending asylum applicants, and adjustment of status applicants).

✔ When It Applies

Applies to eligible renewal applications filed on or after October 27, 2023, and on or before September 30, 2025.
Individuals who previously received a 180-day extension may benefit from the additional time if their EAD has not yet expired beyond the 180-day mark.

✔ What It Means for Employers

Employers may accept the expired EAD along with the I-765 receipt notice showing timely renewal filing as evidence of employment authorization, valid for up to 540 days beyond the original EAD expiration date.

Why It Matters

EAD processing delays have created challenges for both applicants and employers. By increasing the extension period to 540 days, USCIS aims to reduce employment gaps and avoid unnecessary terminations or unpaid leave for workers in valid status.

This rule also helps employers maintain compliance and avoid disruptions caused by lapses in work authorization documentation.

Recommended Next Steps:

✔ Review the eligibility category listed on your EAD (Category Codes such as (c)(9), (a)(12), (c)(8), etc.);
✔ Check the filing date on your I-765 receipt notice;
✔ For employers: review and update I-9 records in accordance with DHS guidance;
✔ Monitor USCIS announcements for further updates as the policy nears expiration in 2025; and
✔ Seek legal advice to determine eligibility or respond to employer documentation requests.

Legal Guidance for EAD Renewals and ComplianceAt the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we stay up to date on USCIS policy changes to help individuals and businesses make informed immigration decisions. If you have questions about EAD renewals, documentation requirements, or how this rule affects your case, contact us at [email protected].

We are here to help you stay authorized, compliant, and prepared.

If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes.

The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].

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Visa Focus Friday

5/23/2025

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Welcome to Visa Focus Friday, where we spotlight key employment-based visas in U.S. immigration. Each week, we provide insights into visa categories for foreign workers, helping to navigate the complexities of the immigration process.

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Chasing Dreams: Immigrants in Sports and Entertainment

5/22/2025

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Chasing Dreams: Immigrants in Sports and Entertainment is a series dedicated to highlighting the remarkable stories of athletes, creatives, and performers who have come to the United States in pursuit of their dreams. Through their journeys, we celebrate the resilience, passion, and determination that drive success across various industries.

This week, we spotlight Martina Navratilova, the Czech-born tennis legend whose immigration journey from political asylum seeker to U.S. citizen reflects the profound impact immigrants have on American sports, culture, and civil rights.

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What to Know Wednesday

5/21/2025

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What Happens If You Lose Your Job on a Work Visa?

Losing your job is stressful enough—but if you are in the U.S. on a work visa like the H-1B, L-1, or O-1, the stakes are even higher. Your immigration status is directly tied to your employment, and a termination can trigger a countdown that affects your ability to stay in the country.

Here is what you need to know:

1. The 60-Day Grace Period Explained

If your employment ends while you are in valid H-1B, L-1, O-1, or similar status, you may be eligible for a one-time 60-day grace period (or until your I-94 expires, whichever comes first). During this period, you can stay in the U.S. without working while you take steps to maintain your immigration status.

This time can be used to:

Find a new employer and file a transfer petition
Apply for a change of status (e.g., to a dependent, student, or visitor status)
Prepare to depart the U.S. in an orderly manner

2. Grace Period Is Not Automatic for Everyone

The 60-day grace period applies only if you were in valid status at the time of termination and only once per authorized stay. If you have already used a grace period following a previous job loss during the same stay, you may not be eligible again until after leaving and reentering the U.S. with a new visa approval.

3. Filing a New Petition Quickly Matters

To maintain work authorization, a new employer must file a petition before the end of the 60-day period. If the petition is filed on time, you may begin working for the new employer as soon as USCIS receives the case, depending on your visa category.
Waiting too long may mean you lose the ability to switch employers without leaving the country.

4. Not All Options Preserve Work Authorization

Filing to change to a different status (such as B-2 visitor or F-1 student) may allow you to stay in the U.S., but does not grant work authorization. If your ultimate goal is to return to employment, you will need a new petition and approval before resuming work.

Plan Ahead to Protect Your Status

If you are laid off or your employment is ending, the clock may already be ticking. Speak with an immigration attorney as soon as possible to explore your options, confirm your eligibility for a grace period, and take action to preserve your long-term immigration goals.

At Stommes Immigration, we help professionals navigate job transitions, grace periods, and complex status questions with clarity and strategy. For personalized guidance, contact us at [email protected].

If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes.

The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].

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Tuesday Immigration Update

5/20/2025

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June 2025 Visa Bulletin Released

Each month, the U.S. Department of State releases a new Visa Bulletin that determines when applicants in the family-sponsored and employment-based preference categories can move forward with their green card applications. The June 2025 Visa Bulletin has just been released—and with it, important updates for many individuals and employers navigating the immigrant visa process. Whether you are waiting to file Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) or monitoring priority dates for a family member or employee, it is essential to understand where your category stands.

Key Details from the June 2025 Visa Bulletin:

✔ Employment-Based Categories

The employment-based second (EB-2) and third (EB-3) preference categories show slight forward movement for India and China, while other countries remain largely current. EB-1 remains current for all countries except India and China, which continue to experience high demand and longer wait times.

✔ Family-Based Categories

Family-sponsored preference categories saw minimal movement, with F2A (spouses and children of permanent residents) remaining current for most regions. Other categories continue to experience lengthy wait times, particularly for petitioners from Mexico and the Philippines.

✔ Filing vs. Final Action Dates

As of June, USCIS will continue to use the “Final Action Dates” chart for employment-based filings and the “Dates for Filing” chart for family-based filings. Always check which chart USCIS is using before submitting Form I-485.

Why This Matters:

The Visa Bulletin is a central tool in determining when you—or your employee or family member—can take the next step in the green card process. An inaccurate understanding of cutoff dates can lead to premature filings, costly rejections, or missed opportunities.

Employers with foreign national employees should regularly review the Visa Bulletin to anticipate workforce needs and maintain continuity in sponsorship timelines.

How to Prepare:

✔ Review your priority date and compare it to the appropriate chart (Final Action or Dates for Filing);

✔ Check the USCIS website each month to confirm which chart is being used for your category;

✔ Consult with an immigration attorney to evaluate whether it is time to file or if strategic timing is needed; and

✔ Plan ahead for documentation updates, medical exams, and other I-485 requirements.

Stay Informed, Stay Prepared

At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we closely monitor each month’s Visa Bulletin to provide timely guidance for individuals and businesses alike. Whether you are nearing eligibility to file, preparing a new employment-based case, or reuniting with family, our team is here to help you navigate the complexities of priority dates, processing timelines, and immigration strategy.

For questions about your place in line—or help preparing your green card application—contact us at [email protected].

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Migrant Monday Motivation

5/19/2025

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Immigration Calendar Control – How to Track Deadlines, Renewals, and Key Milestones

At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we believe that one of the most powerful ways to stay on top of your immigration journey is to develop a clear and consistent system for tracking key dates. When you know exactly what is due and when, you are less likely to miss deadlines—and more likely to stay compliant, confident, and prepared for what comes next.

This week’s Migrant Monday Motivation is about building confidence through organization.

Why Calendar Control Matters

Immigration timelines are not always intuitive. You may be juggling expiration dates, filing windows, travel limitations, or multi-step transitions that span several months or even years. Without a system to track these moving pieces, it is easy to lose sight of important milestones.

Creating a reliable reminder system helps you:

Avoid lapses in status due to missed deadlines
Anticipate renewal windows for visas, work permits, and travel documents
Coordinate timing between multiple applications (e.g., visa extension + green card filing)
Communicate clearly with employers, attorneys, and agencies
Reduce stress and increase confidence throughout your process

Key Dates to Track

To build an effective immigration calendar, start by identifying and recording the following:

Visa expiration dates
I-94 expiration date
Work authorization end dates (e.g., EAD cards)
Travel or reentry permissions (Advance Parole validity)
Filing windows for extensions or renewals (e.g., 180-day mark)
Status change milestones (OPT start date, H-1B cap season, AOS interview, etc.)
Biometrics appointments, RFE deadlines, interview notices, and other USCIS communications

How to Stay on Top of It All

Use a system that works for your lifestyle—digital or physical—but make it consistent.

We recommend:

Digital Calendars (Google Calendar, Outlook, etc.) – Set recurring reminders for renewals and key milestones at 180, 90, and 30 days out
Shared Calendar with Your Attorney – Some firms offer platforms where important dates are tracked collaboratively
Spreadsheets or Timelines – Use a simple table to log important dates and related documents
Folder System (Digital or Paper) – Keep related notices and forms together by date or case type
Annual or Semiannual Check-Ins – Set aside time twice a year to review your full immigration timeline and plan upcoming steps

How We Help

At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we do more than file forms. We work with our clients to build timelines, identify next steps, and flag key dates well in advance—so there are no surprises. Whether you are managing multiple work authorizations, preparing for a transition in status, or navigating family-based timelines, our team helps you stay organized and informed every step of the way.

Preparation is not just paperwork—it is peace of mind.

Take time this week to review your immigration calendar. Are all your key dates logged? Do you know when your next action is due? A well-managed timeline today can protect your status and open doors tomorrow.

If you need help reviewing your case timeline or preparing for an upcoming immigration deadline, we are here to help.

📩 Contact us at [email protected]

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Visa Focus Friday

5/16/2025

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Welcome to Visa Focus Friday, where we spotlight key employment-based visas in U.S. immigration. Each week, we provide insights into visa categories for foreign workers, helping to navigate the complexities of the immigration process.

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Chasing Dreams: Immigrants in Sports and Entertainment

5/15/2025

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Chasing Dreams: Immigrants in Sports and Entertainment is a series dedicated to highlighting the remarkable stories of athletes, creatives, and performers who have come to the United States in pursuit of their dreams. Through their journeys, we celebrate the resilience, passion, and determination that drive success across various industries.

This week, we spotlight Rihanna, the Barbadian-born global icon whose path from a small Caribbean island to international stardom exemplifies how talent, vision, and courage can reshape an entire industry.

The Journey of Rihanna

Robyn Rihanna Fenty was born in Saint Michael, Barbados, and raised in the capital city of Bridgetown. Growing up in a close-knit island community, Rihanna’s early life was shaped by a love for music, fashion, and performance. At just 16 years old, she was discovered by an American music producer visiting Barbados—an encounter that changed her life.

Shortly thereafter, she auditioned for Jay-Z, then president of Def Jam Recordings. Impressed by her talent and presence, the label signed her on the spot. To begin her career in the United States, Rihanna would have required immigration authorization, likely through an O-1 visa (for individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts) or an EB-1 immigrant visa (for individuals with sustained acclaim and national or international recognition in their field).

From Music to Multinational Brand

After her 2005 debut album Music of the Sun, Rihanna quickly gained worldwide attention. With hits like “Umbrella,” “Diamonds,” and “We Found Love,” she became one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Yet even at the height of her chart-topping career, Rihanna envisioned something more expansive—leveraging her platform to build lasting impact across industries.

In 2017, she launched Fenty Beauty, a cosmetics line celebrated for its groundbreaking inclusivity. The brand's 40-shade foundation range disrupted long-standing norms in the beauty industry and established a new standard for diversity and representation.

She followed with Savage X Fenty, a lingerie and loungewear brand that champions body positivity and inclusivity across all sizes, genders, and backgrounds. Her Savage X Fenty runway shows, combining fashion, music, and performance, became cultural events in their own right.

In 2019, Rihanna expanded further with FENTY, a luxury fashion house under LVMH—the first such label launched by the conglomerate since Christian Lacroix in 1987, and the first led by a Black woman. Though paused in 2021, the brand remains a landmark achievement in high fashion and immigrant entrepreneurship.

She also co-founded Clara Lionel Foundation, a nonprofit focused on climate resilience and global education, particularly in underserved communities.

A Defining Moment: Super Bowl and Billionaire Status

In 2023, Rihanna returned to the global stage to headline the Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show. The performance—her first in years—was both a musical triumph and a statement of enduring relevance.
Around the same time, Forbes declared her a self-made billionaire, citing the massive success of her beauty and fashion ventures. She became one of the few entertainers—immigrant or otherwise—to achieve such financial and cultural influence.

Why We Celebrate Rihanna

We celebrate Rihanna not only for her artistry and ambition but for how she has redefined what is possible as an immigrant woman of color in the United States.

Her journey from Bridgetown to global business mogul reminds us that immigration is not simply about entry—it is about impact. Rihanna’s story embodies the immigrant ethos: dreaming big, working hard, and creating change that resonates across borders.

At Stommes Immigration, we believe every immigrant has the potential to shape industries, challenge norms, and inspire generations. Rihanna’s success is not just hers—it is a reflection of what is possible when talent meets opportunity in the United States.

If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes.

The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].

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What to Know Wednesday

5/14/2025

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Traveling Abroad with a Pending Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

If you have applied for a green card through adjustment of status (Form I-485), you may assume that travel outside the United States is still possible. However, leaving the country without proper authorization can result in your application being considered abandoned—jeopardizing your immigration future.

Here is what you need to know:

1. A Pending Form I-485 Does Not Equal Travel Authorization

Filing Form I-485 allows you to seek lawful permanent residency from within the United States, but it does not give you automatic permission to travel internationally while your application is pending. If you depart the U.S. without advance permission, the USCIS will consider your I-485 abandoned and deny your application.

2. Advance Parole: The Travel Document You Need

To travel abroad while waiting on a green card, you must first apply for and receive Advance Parole (Form I-131). This document authorizes you to leave and re-enter the U.S. without affecting your pending AOS case.

Important: You must receive the Advance Parole approval notice and physical document before leaving the country. Filing the application alone is not enough.

3. Exceptions for Certain Dual-Intent Visas

Individuals in H-1B or L-1 status may be able to travel internationally while their I-485 is pending without Advance Parole, thanks to the “dual intent” doctrine. However, these cases are highly fact-specific and must be carefully reviewed with an attorney to avoid status violations or reentry issues.

4. Risks of Traveling Without Proper Authorization

Leaving the U.S. while your green card application is pending--without Advance Parole or appropriate visa status—can result in:

Automatic denial of your I-485
Difficulty reentering the U.S.
Loss of eligibility for adjustment of status

Even emergency travel requires planning to avoid these risks.

Plan Ahead to Protect Your Green Card Case

Before making any international travel plans, consult with an immigration attorney. The timing, visa category, and status at the time of departure all factor into whether travel is legally safe. A short trip without the proper document can have long-term consequences.

Need guidance on Advance Parole or planning travel with a pending Form I-485? Contact Stommes Immigration at [email protected] for trusted advice tailored to your case.

If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes.

The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].

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Tuesday Immigration Update

5/13/2025

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Always Check Form Dates Before Filing

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently updated several immigration forms, including Form I-765 and Form I-90—two of the most commonly used applications by foreign nationals and lawful permanent residents. As of May 29, 2025, USCIS will reject prior versions of these forms (both previously dated 08/28/24).

This update serves as an important reminder: always verify the edition date of any USCIS form before submitting your application.

Key Details:

The current edition of Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) is dated 01/20/25.
The current edition of Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) is also dated 01/20/25.
USCIS will not accept older editions of these forms starting May 29, 2025.
You can verify the edition date by checking the bottom left-hand corner of the form and its instructions. The USCIS website will always list the acceptable version.

Why This Matters:

Submitting an outdated form can lead to rejection or significant delays. This may affect your ability to work lawfully (for I-765 applicants) or maintain valid proof of permanent residency (for I-90 applicants). In urgent situations, even minor delays can cause major disruptions.

Older forms may also reference outdated regulations, incorrect filing fees, or obsolete procedures—putting your application at risk.

How to Prepare:

✔ Always download the latest version of forms directly from the official USCIS website.
✔ Confirm the edition date before you begin completing the form.
✔ Review the instructions to ensure proper filing fees and required documents are included.
✔ File with the correct USCIS lockbox or service center based on your category.

Stay Current, Stay Compliant

At Stommes Immigration, we actively monitor form updates and regulatory changes to protect our clients from preventable errors and delays. If you are planning to file Form I-765, Form I-90, or any other USCIS application, our team is here to ensure your materials are accurate, up to date, and filed properly.

Do not let an outdated form delay your future. For support with your filing, contact us at [email protected].

If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes.

The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].

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Migrant Monday Motivation

5/12/2025

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Confidence Through Clarity—Understanding Your Immigration Status

At Stommes Immigration, we believe that one of the most empowering steps you can take on your immigration journey is gaining a clear, accurate understanding of your status. When you know exactly where you stand—legally and strategically—you are better equipped to make informed decisions, plan ahead, and protect your future.

This week’s Migrant Monday Motivation is about building confidence through clarity.

Why Clarity Matters

Immigration is complex. Even individuals who have held valid status for years may be unsure about the implications of a job change, travel abroad, or an upcoming expiration date. That uncertainty can lead to missed opportunities—or unintentional mistakes.

Clarity allows you to:

Understand your current rights and limitations
Identify necessary actions before deadlines arise
Avoid violations that could harm future eligibility
Communicate effectively with employers, schools, or agencies

Key Questions to Ask Yourself

To stay informed and confident in your status, review these foundational questions regularly:

What is my current immigration classification (e.g., H-1B, F-1, Adjustment of Status applicant)?
When do my key documents expire (visa, I-94, EAD, etc.)?
Am I maintaining the terms of my status (employment, study, etc.)?
What are the next steps or benefits I may be eligible to pursue—and when?
Who should I contact if I receive a government notice or experience a major life change?

How We Help

At Stommes Immigration, we guide our clients through more than just paperwork. We help them understand the full scope of their status—what it allows, what it restricts, and how it can evolve. Whether you are unsure about an I-94 record, eligibility for a green card, or how to transition from one status to another, our team provides clear, strategic guidance tailored to your goals.

Information is powerful—but only when you understand it.

Take time this week to review your immigration documents and identify what questions remain unanswered. Gaining clarity today can prevent problems tomorrow—and give you the confidence to move forward with purpose.

If you need help understanding your status or planning your next step, we are here to help.

If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes.

The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].

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Visa Focus Friday

5/9/2025

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Welcome to Visa Focus Friday, where we spotlight key employment-based visas in U.S. immigration. Each week, we provide insights into visa categories for foreign workers, helping to navigate the complexities of the immigration process.

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Chasing Dreams: Immigrants in Sports and Entertainment

5/8/2025

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Chasing Dreams: Immigrants in Sports and Entertainment is a series dedicated to highlighting the remarkable stories of athletes, creatives, and performers who have come to the United States in pursuit of their dreams. Through their journeys, we celebrate the resilience, passion, and determination that drive success across various industries.

This week, we spotlight Junior Alvarado, the Venezuelan jockey whose path from Maracaibo to Kentucky Derby champion is a powerful example of how grit and perseverance can lead to triumph at the highest level of sport.

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What to Know Wednesday

5/7/2025

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Changing Employers While on a Work Visa—What You Must Know First

If you are working in the United States on a visa like the H-1B, L-1, or O-1, you might assume that switching jobs is as simple as accepting a new offer. However, making an employment change without taking the proper immigration steps can jeopardize your status and future immigration benefits.

Here is what you need to know:

1. Your Visa Is Tied to a Specific Employer

Most employment-based visas are “employer-specific,” meaning they are only valid while you are working for the company that sponsored your petition. If you leave that employer without transferring or amending your visa, you may fall out of status—even if you remain in the U.S.

2. H-1B Portability: What It Allows

H-1B visa holders may be eligible for portability, which allows them to begin working for a new employer once the new employer files an H-1B transfer petition. However, you must not resign from your current job until the transfer petition has been properly filed with USCIS.

*Portability does not apply to every visa type—so it is critical to confirm your eligibility before making a move.*

3. Other Visa Types Require Caution

If you are on an L-1 (intra-company transferee), O-1 (extraordinary ability), or other employment-based visa, changing employers is more complex. These visas are not transferable and require a new petition or application. In some cases, switching employers may not be an option without changing visa categories entirely.

4. Gaps in Employment Can Trigger Status Problems

Even short gaps between jobs can result in a loss of status if not managed carefully. You should ensure that your new employment is authorized by USCIS before stopping work with your current sponsor. Falling out of status can affect your eligibility for extensions, green card processing, and future visa applications.

Plan Ahead to Avoid Disruption

Before accepting a new position, speak with an immigration attorney to review the immigration implications. Proper timing and petitioning can ensure a smooth transition—and help protect your status, work authorization, and long-term goals.

Need guidance on transferring your work visa or changing employers? Contact Stommes Immigration at [email protected] for personalized support.

If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes.

The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].

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Tuesday Immigration Updates

5/6/2025

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USCIS to Conduct Random In-Person Visits for Certain Visa Holders

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is expanding its use of unannounced, random in-person site visits for employment-based visa holders, including individuals on H-1B, L-1, and O-1 visas. This initiative is part of USCIS’s Fraud Detection and National Security (FDNS) mission “to verify information in visa petitions and ensure compliance with U.S. immigration laws.”

Key Details:

Site visits may take place at the petitioner’s primary business address or the beneficiary’s actual worksite, including remote or third-party locations if listed in the petition.

USCIS officers will typically verify job duties, salary, worksite conditions, and whether the visa holder is working in the role described in the original petition.

Employers and employees are expected to cooperate fully and provide requested documentation during the visit. Failure to do so may lead to additional scrutiny or adverse immigration consequences.

Why This Matters:

For both employers and foreign nationals, maintaining compliance with the terms of the approved petition is essential. Any material changes—such as job title, work location, or salary—may require filing an amended petition. Inconsistencies can result in visa revocation or denial of future immigration benefits.

How to Prepare:

Keep employment records current and aligned with the information submitted to USCIS.

File amended petitions promptly for any material changes to the job or worksite.

Train HR and front-desk staff to handle site visits and direct officers to the appropriate representative.

*Cooperate with USCIS officers and provide accurate documentation during the inspection.

For official guidance, visit the USCIS page on H-1B Compliance and Site Visits.

If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes.

The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].

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Migrant Monday Motivation

5/5/2025

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Building a Strong Immigration Paper Trail

At Stommes Immigration, we often say that preparation is power—and nowhere is that more true than in your immigration paperwork. Success in immigration is not only about meeting eligibility criteria; it is also about documenting your journey clearly, consistently, and completely.

This week’s Migrant Monday Motivation is all about maintaining a strong and organized immigration paper trail. Whether you are applying for a work visa, green card, or naturalization—or simply maintaining lawful status—your documentation can shape the speed, strength, and outcome of your case.

Why Your Paper Trail Matters

Immigration is a long-term process. Over time, applicants may move homes, change employers, adjust visa categories, or experience policy shifts that affect their eligibility. A comprehensive record of your immigration history helps your legal team—and USCIS—understand the full picture.

Proper documentation also:

Demonstrates compliance with visa conditions (such as lawful employment or travel)
Supports eligibility for future benefits (like adjustment of status or naturalization)
Helps respond to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs)
Protects your legal position if your case is ever challenged

Key Documents to Keep Organized

While specific needs vary depending on your status, here are core categories of documents you should retain:

Immigration Filings: Copies of all forms submitted to USCIS or consulates (I-129, I-140, I-485, N-400, etc.)
Government Notices: Approval notices, receipt notices, biometrics appointment letters, and decision letters
Travel History: I-94 records, passport stamps, travel itineraries, and Advance Parole documents
Employment Evidence: Pay stubs, W-2s, employment verification letters, and job offer letters
Legal Status Proof: Visas, EADs, Green Cards, and any documentation of status maintenance
Correspondence: Letters or emails from attorneys or immigration agencies
Personal Records: Birth certificates, marriage certificates, tax returns, and address history

Keep both physical copies and digital scans, ideally stored securely and labeled clearly for easy access.

Professional Support Can Make the Difference

Even well-organized individuals can overlook key pieces of documentation—especially when rules change or case timelines stretch over many years. That is why working with an experienced immigration attorney can help ensure your record is both thorough and strategically aligned with your long-term goals.
At Stommes Immigration, we help our clients identify gaps in their documentation, prepare strong filings, and respond to changing circumstances with clarity and confidence.

Your Paper Trail Is Your Foundation

In an immigration system that values evidence, consistency, and credibility, a strong paper trail is not optional—it is essential. Taking time to organize now gives you an advantage later, no matter where you are in your journey.

Stay focused. Stay prepared. And as always, if you need help reviewing your documentation or preparing for your next step, our team is here to support you.

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Visa Focus Friday

5/2/2025

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Welcome to Visa Focus Friday, where we spotlight key employment-based visas in U.S. immigration. Each week, we provide insights into visa categories for foreign workers, helping to navigate the complexities of the immigration process.

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Chasing Dreams: Immigrants in Sports and Entertainment

5/1/2025

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Chasing Dreams: Immigrants in Sports and Entertainment is a series dedicated to highlighting the remarkable stories of athletes, creatives, and performers who have come to the United States in pursuit of their dreams. Through their journeys, we celebrate the resilience, passion, and determination that drive success across various industries.

This week, we spotlight Margot Robbie, the Australian-born actress whose rise from the Gold Coast to Hollywood stardom exemplifies the bold spirit of immigrant entertainers who bring global talent to the American screen.

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Welcome to Visa Focus Friday, where we spotlight key employment-based visas in U.S. immigration. Each week, we provide insights into visa categories for foreign workers, helping to navigate the complexities of the immigration process.

How Your Immigration Status Affects Your Ability to Start a Business in the U.S.

USCIS Extends Automatic EAD Renewals to 540 Days

Welcome to Visa Focus Friday, where we spotlight key employment-based visas in U.S. immigration. Each week, we provide insights into visa categories for foreign workers, helping to navigate the complexities of the immigration process.

What Happens If You Lose Your Job on a Work Visa?

June 2025 Visa Bulletin Released

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Welcome to Visa Focus Friday, where we spotlight key employment-based visas in U.S. immigration. Each week, we provide insights into visa categories for foreign workers, helping to navigate the complexities of the immigration process.

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​Confidence Through Clarity—Understanding Your Immigration Status

Email Us

Changing Employers While on a Work Visa—What You Must Know First

USCIS to Conduct Random In-Person Visits for Certain Visa Holders

Building a Strong Immigration Paper Trail

Welcome to Visa Focus Friday, where we spotlight key employment-based visas in U.S. immigration. Each week, we provide insights into visa categories for foreign workers, helping to navigate the complexities of the immigration process.

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