At the Law Offices of Sabrina Li, we recently helped a client successfully overcome a complex immigration issue after his green card interview raised concerns about his past OPT employment with Findream. Through a carefully developed strategy and a well-prepared I-601 waiver application, our client ultimately obtained approval of the I-601 waiver, and his green card was approved just one day later.

I-485 Interview Raised Questions About OPT Employment at Findream

Our client first came to the United States as an F-1 international student and later pursued a career in the technology field. During his Optional Practical Training (OPT) period in 2015, he reported Findream as his OPT employer to his school. Later, when applying for an F-1 visa at the consulate, he honestly disclosed this information in his DS-160 application.

Over the years, our client continued to build his professional career in the United States. His H-1B petition was approved, followed by the approval of his I-140 immigrant petition. After his priority date became current, he filed an employment-based adjustment of status application (Form I-485) in November 2023 under the EB-2 category.

In July 2024, he attended his I-485 interview. During the interview, the officer asked detailed questions about his employment history, including the period associated with Findream.  

Acted Quickly to Secure Legal Representation

After the interview, the client realized that the issue might affect his green card case and promptly contacted the Law Offices of Sabrina Li in July 2024 to seek legal assistance. After the consultation, we determined that the client could apply for an I-601 waiver because his wife is a lawful permanent resident, and the couple had recently welcomed a newborn U.S. citizen child. These family circumstances became a critical part of demonstrating extreme hardship for the waiver application.

The client retained our firm before receiving any Request for Evidence (RFE) or Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID)from USCIS. This early action gave our legal team valuable time to prepare a comprehensive strategy for the I-601 waiver application.

Building a Strong I-601 Waiver Case

Our team carefully prepared a comprehensive waiver package centered on the hardship that the client’s wife would face if he were denied permanent residence.

During the preparation process, we focused on presenting a complete picture of the couple’s life and relationship. In addition, we provided evidence demonstrating the challenges the spouse would face while raising their newborn child without her husband’s support. To further strengthen the case, we submitted documentation reflecting the client’s strong moral character.

Through these materials, we demonstrated how the couple supported each other through school, career development, and the transition to building a new family of three.

Strategic Coordination With Employer’s Attorney

As expected, in November 2024, USCIS issued a Request for Evidence (RFE) stating that it believed there may have been a misrepresentation in a previous visa application related to the client’s reported employment at Findream. USCIS therefore required the filing of Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility.

Because the client’s I-485 application had originally been filed by his employer’s attorney, the client informed the company’s attorney that he had retained our firm to handle the I-601 waiver portion of the case.  

After filing the I-601 waiver in December 2024, we promptly provided the receipt notice to the company’s attorney. The company’s attorney then responded to the USCIS RFE by submitting the I-601 receipt notice as part of the response package.

I-601 Waiver Approved, Green Card Granted the Next Day

Thanks to the strong evidentiary record and careful preparation, USCIS approved the client’s I-601 waiver in May 2025. Just one day later, USCIS also approved his I-485 adjustment of status application, granting him lawful permanent residence in the United States.

Turning a Potential Immigration Crisis Into a Successful Outcome

This case demonstrates the importance of seeking legal guidance early when complications arise during the immigration process. By contacting our office immediately after his interview, the client gave our team sufficient time to develop a strong waiver strategy and protect his path to permanent residence.

At the Law Offices of Sabrina Li, we are experienced in handling complex immigration issues, including inadmissibility findings and waiver applications. If you are facing similar issues, it is important to seek legal help as early as possible. Early action can make a critical difference.

Contact the Law Offices of Sabrina Li today at 213-375-8096 or email us at info@sabrinalilaw.com for a case evaluation. Our team will provide clear guidance and a strategic plan to protect your path to permanent residence.