-
Categories
Categories -
Archive
-
Search
USCIS Announces Premium Processing and New Online Filing Procedures Available for Some F-1 Students
USCIS announced that as of March 6, 2023, it will now accept premium processing requests for certain F-1 students seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) as well as for F-1 students seeking science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) OPT extensions. Please...
New Countries Added for Special Student Relief in 2022: Afghanistan, Ukraine, Sudan & South Sudan
Under normal regulations, F-1 students have limitations as to when and where they are allowed to work as well as minimum required course loads. During times of crisis, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) can suspend those limitations for groups...
It’s Almost Time for the H-1B Lottery Again!
It is that time of the year where we reach out to our clients to find out if there are any employees that might need a new H-1B visa for the next fiscal year (2023), which begins on October 1,...
B-2 ‘Bridge Petitions’ no longer required for Applicants for Change of Status to F-1 Student
On July 20, 2021, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced new policy guidance that eliminates the need for individuals who have applied for a change of status (COS) to F-1 student status, to also apply to change or extend...
Unlawful Presence Bar Will Start to Apply on February 5, 2019 for Students Who Have Failed to Maintain Status
On August 9, 2018, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a Policy Memorandum updating the USCIS Adjudicators Field Manual (AFM) to state that students in F, J, and M status who are admitted for “duration of status” or “D/S”...
Can I start the Green Card Process while on Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)? Optional practical training (OPT) is defined by federal regulations as "temporary employment for practical training directly related to the [F-1] student's major area of study." After completion of a course of study, most students...
Obtaining an F-1 Student Visa: Change Status or Apply at U.S. Consulate?
Oftentimes, prospective students enter the U.S. on a B visitor visa to visit schools and decide they would like to stay in the U.S. to pursue a course of study. The inevitable question then arises: Should I change my status...
TIPS for Employers Employing F-1 Workers on the New 24-Month STEM OPT Extension
On May 10, 2016, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)’s newly published STEM OPT rule will take effect. The new rule extends the initial 12 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT), available to all F-1 students, an additional 24-month period...
