In a significant ruling, U.S. District Judge William G. Young reaffirmed that international students and faculty enjoy the same First Amendment protections as U.S. citizens. The court struck down a Trump-era policy that sought to target noncitizen students and educators for arrest or deportation based on their pro-Palestinian political expression.
Category: Student Visas (F, M, J)
Understanding the Difference Between Unlawful Presence and Unlawful Status
In U.S. immigration law, the terms “unlawful presence” and “unlawful status” are often used interchangeably. However, they are not the same — and confusing the two can lead to serious mistakes with long-term consequences. Recent policy shifts by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) make this distinction more important than ever for students, workers,...
DHS Proposes Fixed Admission Periods for F, J, and I Visa Holders
On August 28, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that could significantly reshape the way F-1 academic students, J-1 exchange visitors, and I-visa foreign media representatives are admitted to the United States.
If finalized, this rule would replace the long-standing practice...
SEVIS Fee Reminder for F-1, J-1, and M-1 Visa Applicants: What You Need to Know in 2025
If you're an international student, vocational trainee, or exchange visitor preparing for your U.S. journey, understanding the SEVIS fee process is essential. This update explains what the I-901 fee is, who needs to pay it, and how to stay compliant — so you can focus on your studies, not paperwork.
Preparing for an F-1 Student Visa in 2025: Key Updates and Best Practices
As the new academic year approaches, international students planning to study in the United States should be aware of important changes to the F-1 visa application process. With increased government scrutiny and new interview requirements in place, applicants must now take extra steps to ensure their applications are complete, accurate, and timely.
U.S. Visa Delays in the Middle East: What Applicants Should Know Amid Geopolitical Tensions
Recent instability in the Middle East—especially involving Iran—has caused substantial disruptions in U.S. visa operations at multiple embassies and consulates throughout the region. These delays are impacting a broad range of applicants, from international students and temporary workers to business travelers and family-based immigrants.
Current SituationF, M & J Visa Applicants Face New Online Vetting by U.S. Consulates
The U.S. Department of State has announced significant updates that will impact international students and exchange visitors applying for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas. These changes reflect enhanced security vetting protocols, with a particular emphasis on reviewing social media presence and online activity.
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What If I Don’t Finish My Studies? Business Immigration Options for F-1 Students
Many international students enter the United States on an F-1 visa with hopes of completing their degree and launching a career. But what happens if things change — you pause your studies or decide that the academic path isn’t right for you?
If you're an F-1 student who...
U.S. Temporarily Halts New F, J, and M Visa Appointments: What International Students and Schools Need to Know
In a major shift affecting international students and exchange visitors, the U.S. Department of State has directed all consular posts around the world to pause new visa appointments for F-1, J-1, and M-1 categories. This development, which took effect on May 27, 2025, is linked to a broader policy initiative to enhance...
Heightened Scrutiny on Chinese Students: What Employers Should Know About Visa Revocations and Workforce Risk
The U.S. government has announced a significant escalation in visa enforcement aimed at Chinese nationals, particularly students and recent graduates in technical fields. In a policy shift led by the U.S. Secretary of State, the administration is now actively revoking visas of Chinese students suspected of affiliations with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) or...