Change of status, visa extensions, advance parole, EAD work permits. Expert nonimmigrant visa guidance for H, L, O, F, B and J visa holders.
Maintaining lawful immigration status in the United States is essential for protecting your rights, your eligibility for future immigration benefits, and your ability to remain in the country. Whether you need to change from one visa category to another, extend your authorized stay, obtain work authorization, or secure travel permission while a case is pending, Fitenko Law PLLC provides knowledgeable guidance through each of these processes.
A change of status allows a nonimmigrant currently in the United States to switch from one visa classification to another without leaving the country. Common change-of-status scenarios include:
A change of status must be filed before the current period of authorized stay expires. Filing after expiration may result in a denial and accrual of unlawful presence. We ensure that applications are filed timely and supported by thorough documentation demonstrating eligibility for the requested classification.
If you need to remain in the United States beyond the date authorized on your Form I-94, you must file for an extension of stay with USCIS before the current authorization expires. Extensions are available for most nonimmigrant categories, though requirements and processing times vary. We help clients file timely extension requests and, where applicable, assert the regulatory provision that allows continued authorized stay while an extension application is pending.
Advance parole (Form I-131) is a travel document that allows certain applicants to travel outside the United States and return while an immigration application — such as an adjustment of status (I-485) or TPS application — is pending. Traveling without advance parole while an adjustment application is pending can result in abandonment of the application. We advise clients on when advance parole is available, when it is strategically wise to travel, and how to coordinate travel with pending applications.
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) grants work permission to individuals who are not otherwise authorized to work in the United States. EADs are issued to a wide range of applicants, including:
We assist clients with initial EAD applications, renewals, and replacement cards, ensuring that there are no gaps in work authorization that could disrupt employment.
Temporary Protected Status is a humanitarian protection granted to nationals of designated countries experiencing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary conditions. TPS beneficiaries may remain in the United States, obtain work authorization, and travel with advance parole. We help clients with initial TPS registration, re-registration during extension periods, and applications for related benefits.
The DACA program provides renewable two-year periods of deferred action and work authorization for individuals who came to the United States as children and meet specific eligibility criteria. While the program’s future remains subject to ongoing litigation and policy changes, we advise current DACA recipients on renewal timing, travel restrictions, and pathways that may be available for adjustment of status or other immigration relief.
“Immigration status is not static — it requires active management, timely filings, and informed decision-making. We help our clients stay in compliance and seize opportunities as they arise.”
Whether you need a change of status, extension, work permit, or travel document, contact Fitenko Law PLLC for a consultation. We provide clear guidance in English and Russian to keep you on the right track.