Back in December 2025, USCIS tightened how long it can reuse an old photo on file, cutting the reuse window down to 36 months for most filings. At the time, that seemed like a fairly technical, back-office change. Months later, the real-world effect is becoming clear: applicants across a wide range of...
For years, the standard playbook for international STEM graduates in the U.S. was straightforward — finish school, start working on OPT, get sponsored for an H-1B, and go from there. That playbook is no longer working as reliably as it once did, and a growing number of graduates are responding by putting...
International students working in the United States under Optional Practical Training (OPT) often focus on maintaining employment and preparing for future visa opportunities such as the H-1B. However, one overlooked area that can create serious immigration risks is how employment history is presented—especially on public platforms like LinkedIn and other online profiles.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), has recently issued an important alert regarding fraud concerns involving employers participating in the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. This development signals increased government scrutiny—particularly targeting certain types of employers and employment arrangements.
In recent weeks, there have been multiple reports of USCIS officers conducting site visits in Minnesota and the Dakotas targeting foreign students and workers with pending applications. The visits have focused on individuals with:
STEM OPT extensions H-1B change of status petitionsF-1 visa students participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT) must remain vigilant about maintaining their legal status in the U.S. A recent notice from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) highlights the consequences of failing to report employment during OPT.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) monitors...
As the possibility of a Trump 2.0 administration looms, speculation surrounds the significant shifts in immigration policies that may reshape the U.S. immigration landscape. Building upon the policies of his first term, a renewed Trump administration could emphasize stricter enforcement, heightened scrutiny, and reduced immigration levels. Below, we explore potential key changes...
Ridgewood, NJ – Nachman, Phulwani, Zimovcak (NPZ) Law Group is pleased to announce the latest update from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regarding the STEM Designated Degree Program List. Effective July 22, 2024, the DHS has added a new Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code to the list, which is crucial for...
Opening Grab: Secure your future in the U.S. – a pivotal USCIS update expands green card opportunities for STEM talent.
In a significant move on April 10, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) made a pivotal update to the “Schedule A, Group II” occupations under its regulations. This update...
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently updated its policy guidance concerning F and M student nonimmigrant classifications. This update is a consolidation of existing policies and aims to provide clearer guidance to international students and U.S. educational institutions. The guidance covers several key areas, including:
