I recently became a U.S. citizen and have surrendered my Indian passport.
I want to apply for a 5-year Indian e-Visa in advance so I can travel quickly if there’s a family emergency. However, I don’t have any travel plans right now.

A few questions:
1. What should I enter for the “Expected Date of Arrival”?
2. Can I apply without booking a flight?
3. If I don’t travel on the expected date, will my visa remain valid for 5 years?
4. Has anyone applied this way and faced issues later?

Would appreciate hearing from anyone with similar experience. Thanks!

Hi I’m looking for advice and guidance. I am married to a US citizen and I am thinking of applying I-130 and I-485 but I do have a 2 year home residency requirement under 212(e). I also have an affirmative asylum case pending with USCIS for 2 years now. What would be the best approach for this

(1)Applying everything [I-130, I-485 and J1 waiver
(I -612)] concurrently

My concern is my I-485 getting rejected and being put in removal proceedings if it gets processed before my J1 persecution waiver gets approved. Has anyone done this and was everything gets processed at the same time?

(2) Applying I-130 and I-612 first and wait for the approval before applying for I-485

My concern is in case of the denial of I-612 affecting my asylum case. Plus the waiver itself takes a long time and I-485 again will take many more years again.

(3) waiting for the asylum case to move forward without filing anything marriage-based

Or do you have any other suggestions on other approaches or is there any more concerns/ consequences I should be aware of that I am not thinking right now?

I recently discovered that both my parents answered “No” to the question in their DS-260 applications asking whether their children would immigrate to the United States with them. At the time of submission, they were unaware of my CSPA age calculation and mistakenly believed I was no longer eligible to accompany them due to my biological age. Their applications have been submitted, and the case is documentarily complete in August 2026. My own CEAC profile shows “Not Available,” preventing me from accessing or submitting my DS-260.

Should I contact the NVC public inquiry form and state this mistake?

Hey, I’m 22 and born and raised in Australia. My dad’s a US citizen and spent about 35 years living in the US. My parents weren’t married when I was born. He left when I was a kid but we stayed in touch on and off, and he helped out with money now and then.

I want to try claiming citizenship through him but I’m worried I’ve missed the window. He’s on my birth certificate, I can prove he’s my dad, and he’s happy to sign whatever’s needed. The problem is the rules say unmarried dads had to agree in writing to support the kid until 18, and that was never done. There was a verbal agreement about some of it but nothing written, and I’m over 18 now.

Has anyone been in a similar spot? Realistically, what are my chances, and is there anything I should do before applying? I’m going to contact the Melbourne consulate and probably an immigration lawyer as well, but I’d like to hear from people who’ve actually been through it. Thanks

I’m 22 and have lived in Australia my whole life. My dad is a US citizen who lived in the US for about 35 years, so he easily meets the 5 years of presence (2 after age 14). My parents weren’t married when I was born, and I’m looking at claiming citizenship at birth through him under INA 309(a).

He’s named on my Australian birth certificate, I can prove the biological link, and he’s fully on board and willing to sign the DS-5507. He supported me on and off as a kid and there should be some payment records. We had a verbal agreement about some of that support, but nothing was ever put in writing, and as far as I know he was never formally acknowledged through a sworn statement or court order. I live in Victoria, where I understand the law treats children of unmarried parents the same as any other child.

The sticking point is that the rules say the father must agree in writing to support the child until 18, and that while the child is under 18 they’re legitimated, acknowledged, or established by a court. I’m 22, so those windows have closed, and I’m not sure whether a late DS-5507 signature or my birth certificate plus Victorian law will be enough for the consulate.

What do people think my chances are, and has anyone been in a similar position? Any advice on how to strengthen the application or what to avoid would be really appreciated, whether that’s evidence to gather, how to approach the consulate, or whether it’s worth paying for an attorney first. I’m planning to contact the Melbourne consulate and an immigration attorney too, but I’d like to hear real experiences first

Hello... For anyone who has used penn Foster School for US embassy or government-related matters, is the school accredited? Thank you.

A major development has emerged in the DV 2027 Diversity Visa Lottery lawsuit, bringing renewed hope to thousands of aspiring immigrants waiting for the opportunity to apply for the American Green Card.

Immigration attorney Curtis Morrison of Red Eagle Law has announced that Judge Jinsook Ohta has ordered the US government to announce and open registration for DV 2027.

According to Morrison, the registration period must remain open for 30 days, with the government given a deadline of October 15, 2026.

However, applicants are urged to remain cautious as the written court order and the government’s official response are still awaited. The DV 2027 registration website has not yet been confirmed open.

This development could be significant for thousands of hopeful applicants who have been waiting anxiously for the next step in the Diversity Visa program.

By Peter Njenga.

Me: US citizen, military veteran, employed

Girlfriend from South Korea wants to visit on ESTA. She is a social media and teaching freelancer

She visited for 90 days twice

March to June 2025
November 2025 to end of Jan 2026

Last time she was taken to secondary interview room at EWR and questioned for about 5 minutes

They asked about me, her family, income, purpose of visit etc

She would like to visit end of this year or beginning of next year for another three months

There is no risk of her trying to overstay or trying to work. As far as marriage, we are considering it

Will everything be cool at border control?

Hi everyone,

My partner and I are both British, currently living in London, and we’re exploring options to relocate to California together. I’d really appreciate hearing from anyone who’s navigated a similar situation.

Our situation:

My partner is a Product Designer who has secured a role at a major technology company in California. His O-1 visa has been approved, and he’s preparing to relocate.

I’m 30 and currently work in theatrical film marketing at a major Hollywood studio’s London office. I have experience working on major international film releases, collaborating with US teams, and managing marketing campaigns for globally recognised franchises.

We initially thought an internal transfer might be the most straightforward route, given that my employer has a significant presence in Los Angeles.

However, HR has explained that US visa sponsorship is generally reserved for roles where the required skills are difficult to source locally. An L-1 transfer would also require support from both the UK and US businesses, with no guarantee of approval.

I’m not currently in a managerial position, although I understand that L-1B transfers can apply to employees with specialised knowledge. Ideally, I’d like to continue working in theatrical marketing at a similar level rather than taking a significant step backwards professionally.

The options we’re considering:

L-1B: An internal transfer through my current employer, although securing business support is proving difficult.
O-1: Exploring whether my experience working on major film campaigns could qualify me, potentially with additional industry recognition and supporting evidence.
H-1B: Applying to US employers willing to sponsor, although the lottery and sponsorship requirements present challenges.
F-1: Pursuing postgraduate education in California, although the cost and restrictions on employment make this less appealing.
O-3: If we were to marry, I could potentially accompany my partner as a dependent, but wouldn’t have permission to work.

I’ve also been applying for relevant marketing roles at entertainment and technology companies in California, but identifying employers open to sponsorship has been difficult.

A few questions:

Has anyone successfully secured an L-1B transfer despite initial reluctance from their employer? What helped make the business case?

Has anyone in film marketing, entertainment marketing or a similar field successfully obtained an O-1 visa? What evidence was most important?

Are there particular employers or sectors in California more open to sponsoring experienced international marketing professionals?

Has anyone been in a relationship where one partner held an O-1 and the other needed an independent route to employment?

Are there any alternative visa pathways we should be considering?

We’re open to temporary long-distance arrangements if necessary, but our preference is to relocate together while both continuing our careers.

We’re also seeking professional immigration advice, but I’d be particularly interested in hearing firsthand experiences and practical suggestions.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Hi! I'm from Morocco. I completed 1ère bac and started 2ème bac but left before obtaining my baccalaureate diploma. I'm currently preparing for the bac libre, with results expected around June 19, 2027.

Can I enter the DV Lottery and qualify through education if I obtain my bac diploma before the end of the relevant fiscal year, even if I don't have it when I enter?

Has anyone from Morocco been in a similar situation? I'd appreciate advice based on official rules or personal experience. Thanks!

My dad recently told me that his Legal Resident card has been expired for over 10 years ( 2014) . He was originally given citizenship for the code S26- designates a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) or Green Card holder who obtained status as a Seasonal Agricultural Worker (SAW) — Group 2 (Adjusted Status) under Section 210(2)(B) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, added by the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) of 1986.

He told me that he has some stuff on his record , trespassing or breaking and entering . I want to help him and do file his I-30 but feel like I might be dooming him

Hi....I'm a Bahraini citizen, born in Bahrain, and I'm interested in applying for the US Diversity Visa (Green Card Lottery).

However, I have a serious issue with my passport.

My Bahraini passport expires on March 27, 2027. Unfortunately, the Bahraini government has refused to renew my passport due to an ongoing citizenship review involving my father, who acquired Bahraini citizenship in 1999.

I was born with Bahraini citizenship, and I personally had no involvement in how my father obtained his citizenship.

At the moment, my citizenship has not been revoked, but I'm concerned that this could happen in the future, and I may lose the ability to renew my passport.

Can I still apply for the US Diversity Visa Lottery? If my passport expires, is it possible to obtain an individual passport waiver or another travel document to immigrate to the US?

Has anyone experienced a similar situation?

I would appreciate your help and advice in advance. Thank you for your time and cooperation.

I currently hold the F2 visa, and my U visa application is in process. I plan to attend college in the US, and I will have graduated from an American high school. Even so, would I still need to enroll as an international student, even though I graduated here? And if I switch my visa to an F1, would that complicate my ongoing U visa application?

Hello,

I am a derivative beneficiary on an approved F4 case and need your advice.

Facts:

- I am an Indian citizen in India, age 29 and unmarried. I hold a B1/B2 visa.

- My father's sister, a US citizen, filed an F4 petition for my father in 2007. I am listed as a derivative child. USCIS approved the I-130 in October 2026, and the case is now at the NVC.

- My father and mother became green card holders in 2023 through a petition filed by my sister, who is a US citizen. This was a separate case.

Questions:

1. Can I still immigrate as a derivative on the F4 case, even though my father is already a permanent resident through another route?

2. If yes, does CSPA protect my age? The I-130 was pending about 19 years and 9 months.

3. If the F4 case is no longer usable for me, what do you suggest as my next best option?

4. I plan to apply for an F-1 visa. How should I answer the DS-160 question about an immigrant petition filed on my behalf, and how could the F4 case affect the F-1 decision?

I’m an F-1 student from India who graduated with a Master’s in Computer Science on May 12, 2026.

My OPT application was denied on October 1, 2026, because my OPT I-20 was issued more than 30 days before I filed my application. My previous SEVIS record is now terminated.

After consulting my attorney, I was advised to pursue a new Initial I-20 under a new SEVIS ID to continue my studies. I have been admitted to Anderson University, paid the new SEVIS fee, and am considering traveling abroad and applying for admission to the U.S. using my existing F-1 visa, which is valid until 2029.

I understand that a valid visa and new I-20 do not guarantee admission, and CBP will make the final decision.

I would appreciate guidance from anyone familiar with similar cases:

1. Has anyone re-entered the U.S. using a new Initial I-20 and SEVIS ID after an OPT denial?
2. Were you asked about your previous OPT denial or terminated SEVIS record?
3. Are there any important immigration considerations when choosing a land port of entry versus an international airport?
4. What documents did you carry to demonstrate your eligibility, financial support, and intent to attend your new university?
5. Is there anything I should clarify with my immigration attorney or new university’s DSO before traveling?

I plan to carry my passport, valid F-1 visa, new Initial I-20 signed by my DSO, I-901 SEVIS fee receipt, admission letter, financial documents, previous I-20s, and OPT denial notice.

I’m looking for lawful re-entry guidance and firsthand experiences from people who have faced similar circumstances. Thank you for any advice.

Hello, Good day to everyone.

Is there anyone here who got affected by the PAUSE interview from immigration outside the country? My mom suppose to get interview before the pause was implemented. Her original schedule suppose to be September of this year in italy after a long back and forth with documents they finally accepted it and was able to proceed to interview.

But the PAUSE happened and obviously it hold up and delay more. My question is, anyone here got affected by this and now moving forward? I still have not heard anything from her account about the new interview schedule. I was wondering how long this delay going to since we already waited longer than normal.

My mom is no in the hurry for sure, but the thought we could spend Christmas together this year is really what hurts. It suppose to be her first time meeting her grandchildren. 😩

I was hoping anyone here have same experience but now have some new update with their application. Maybe you can share some insights and hope to people like me who is still awaiting for update.

Hello everyone,

I am an Ecuadorian citizen looking for advice from people who may have experienced a situation similar to mine.

Approximately 10 years ago, I was convicted of a theft offense involving approximately $300 in Orlando, Florida. Following that incident, my U.S. visa was revoked.

Since then, I have applied for and received five 212(d)(3) nonimmigrant waivers over the years and got 5 Visas renovation upon Waivers approval where grantes and been traveling since then. My most recent waiver was approved last year, and I was subsequently issued a B1/B2 visa valid for five years.

I have not overstayed my authorized visits to the United States. My most recent trip was in July 2026, and i have commited any other offence since then.

On September 29, 2026, I received notification that my B1/B2 visa had been “PRUDENTIALLY REVOKED” under Section 221(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The notification did not explain the specific reason for the revocation. I contacted the consulate, but I have not received a substantive explanation.

My family circumstances and the personal impact

I also have a U.S. citizen daughter who has been living in the United States for more than six years and is currently studying at the University of Pennsylvania (Penn). I have been paying for her private university education since she began her studies.

My daughter became a U.S. citizen through her mother, who married a U.S. citizen more than 10 years ago.

She is my only child, and one of my main reasons for maintaining a valid U.S. visa is to be able to visit her regularly and spend time with her. Although I also travel for tourism, visiting my daughter is especially important to me because she lives in the United States and I live in Ecuador.

Having my visa prudentially revoked has therefore affected me not only as a traveler but also personally, because it prevents me from visiting my only daughter as I had been doing. I would very much like to understand what happened and whether there is a way to resolve this situation.

My questions for anyone with similar experience:

1. Has anyone had a B1/B2 visa prudentially revoked under INA 221(i) after receiving multiple approved 212(d)(3) waivers for an old criminal conviction?

2. Could a revocation occur because of a new review of an existing criminal record or previously approved waivers, even if there has been no new offense or immigration violation?

3. Has anyone in a similar situation been able to resolve the matter by requesting their records through FOIA or by submitting a new visa application?

4. Does having a U.S. citizen child who lives and studies in the United States, whom the applicant regularly visits and financially supports, have any relevance when explaining the personal circumstances of the case?

I understand that every case is different and that having a U.S. citizen daughter does not automatically entitle me to a visa. I am simply hoping to learn from people who have experienced something similar and understand what steps might be appropriate in my situation.

Thank you very much for sharing any information, personal experiences, or advice.

Curious if this is real. If anyone can testify to these benefits or knows someone that has qualified for the stipend and left.

I’m planning to move to Spain as well (I’ll have a visa, of course) what should I do after I arrive? Do I need to buy a house before moving there?

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for some perspective from people who have been trailing spouses or moved abroad for a partner’s career.

My French partner and I are currently living in Australia, but we are planning to relocate to Martinique (French territory) later this year for his job.

To make this move happen, I am giving up my current job and momentum in Australia, leaving behind my financial independence, and moving to a foreign territory where I won't have immediate work rights. Our current plan is for me to enter on a 12-month Visitor Visa (VLS-TS Visiteur), register a PACS (civil partnership) once we arrive, and then apply for a status change (Vie Privée et Familiale) to get work authorization.

Here’s where my anxiety comes in: during the transition period (roughly 4 to 6 months after arriving), I will not be legally allowed to work. I will be completely dependent on him and our relationship holding strong in a brand-new environment.

I feel an overwhelming sense of asymmetrical risk. He gets a guaranteed job, immediate income, and a smooth career transition. I am the one taking on 100% of the vulnerability- quitting my job, giving up my work rights, and moving thousands of miles.

Because of this, I’ve felt increasingly anxious about relying on a PACS rather than marriage. From an immigration perspective, marriage is universally recognized, straightforward, and grants direct legal rights. But more than that, I feel like if I am making the ultimate life sacrifice for his career, I need the ultimate legal security and commitment in return.

He seems apprehensive about marriage, treating a PACS as the "standard" French stepping stone. To him, a PACS feels like a big step. But to me, a PACS leaves me feeling exposed while he stays completely comfortable.

• For anyone who moved abroad for a partner's job: Am I being unreasonable or asking for "too much" by wanting marriage before uprooting my life again?
• How did you handle the period where you couldn't work and were financially dependent?
• For those with French partners: How did you navigate the cultural divide between a PACS vs. Marriage when immigration risks were involved?

I’d love to hear your thoughts, experiences, or how you navigated this conversation without causing resentment. Thank you!

TL;DR: I (F27) am quitting my job and moving from Australia to a French territory for my French partner’s career. I’ll be taking on all the financial/career risk and won't have local work rights for 4–6 months. I feel anxious relying on a PACS (civil partnership) instead of marriage during this dependent period, but my partner thinks a PACS is "enough." Am I asking too much by wanting the legal security of marriage before uprooting my life again?

My office puts on frequent low-barrier food outreach events. We intentionally do not collect identifying information about the recipients of food aid. But we have noticed that at some events in an area of town with a large number of immigrants from a specific country (I will leave it unnamed, because this post is not about that) we frequently have aid recipients going through the line multiple times. (Like going out to their car, putting on a wig or changing a shirt and coming back). We have limited food at these events and we generally run out before the line goes down, so these individuals are taking food off of others' tables.
Today we were discussing methods for keeping residents from going through the line multiple times without creating barriers that would drive away the most vulnerable. (Things like stamps on the hands and taking pictures as each person comes through were discussed. Hand stamps were really the best option we came up with, but it still feels a bit concentration campy. And taking pictures would definitely make many immigrant uncomfortable in todays political environment.)
Does anyone have any suggestions about how we may keep people from recieving food twice at one event without increasing barriers to access for the most vulnerable?

Hello everyone I am an international student currently on the 60 days of grace post OPT. I am currently changing my status to a Marriage Based adjustment of status. My husband and I have been together for the past five years. He is also a Marine and he has been stationed in Washington DC while I am currently living in Florida. I have been made aware by my lawyers that ICE has been taking people with expired visas on airports even if their status is pending. However, now a document from my country is expiring and it also so happens that the only place I can renew it is in Maryland. I want to live with my husband, I don't want to be separated from him. So I was wondering if I could travel on a domestic flight or if I could be at risk of being detained by ICE? What options would I have regarding this.

Heloo, Im looking for advice from people who have experience with SB-1 returning resident visas or similar situations

Here is my situation:

-Green card since 2008 e35 valid until 2028

-Lived in the philippines since 2017

-booked flight to us in april 2020 (corrected, not 2019)but was unable to due to covid, airports shutdown and covid related travel restrictions, I have record of the flight booked

-started nursing school in early 2019 graduated in 2024, already havem my transcript of records for more evidence if needed

-dad has health problems I could not travel right away, he needed hospitalizations

-all my family are in the us working in healthcare, only me and my dad remain here in the philippines.

So my question is do I have a chance? If i apply for SB-1 has anyone experience getting their SB-1 after a long time. Id appreciate any advice thank you friends.

What else do I need to do?

(I intend to fully stay in U.S after I get there)

hi everyone, so regarding Medani:

''Medani v Trump DV-2026 Updates: First, Judge Davila has issued an order allowing the 10-day adjudidcation period to resume October 14, 2026 at 12:01 a.m. (local time at embassy).

Further, he has clarified that “Applications” are defined as all DS-260 Forms successfully submitted. This will hopefully mean we will see at least some 2NLS for DV-2026 applicants who have not attended interview. Further, he ordered that DOS needs to send a copy of his order to embassies with their guidance cable.''

Please let me know if any Dv2026 winner got their re interview date.