| 8. | How long is the employment authorization valid on L-2 status? |
| | | | | Your employment authorization document is valid for two years and may be renewed as long as you continue to maintain proper L-2 status. |
| 9. | Can I be employed in any kind of job on L-2 visa? | | | |
| | Yes, there is no limit on the nature of the authorized employment. The USCIS refers to this as 'open market' employment authorization. | | 10. | Will my time in the U.S. as L-2 spouse count against the six years I'm allowed in H-1B temporary professional
working status? | | | | | | No, your time in the U.S. on L-2 visa will not count
against the six years the law allows you to work in the U.S. on H-1B visa. The USCIS approves H-1B status for professional workers in up to three year intervals. If you were unemployed or out of status between your H-1B jobs, the USCIS would count that time. |
| 11. | Can I adjust status to legal permanent resident on L-2 visa? | | | |
| | Yes, you may apply for Adjustment of Status. You need to file Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent
Residence or Adjust Status, with the USCIS. |
| 12. |
Do I need to apply for Advance Parole when I have to travel abroad on L-2 visa? | | | | | |
No, you do not need to apply for Advance Parole if you are a valid L-2 visa holder and wish to travel internationally. This is true as long as you maintain nonimmigrant status. |
| 13. | Can I change from H-4 to L-2 status so that I can get work authorization? |
| | | | | Yes, if your spouse qualifies for L-1 status, you may apply for a change of status from
H-4 to L-2 status and your spouse from H-IB to L-1 status. To obtain work authorization, you should submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, together with your Form I-539, Application for Change or Extension of Status. |
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