USCIS has revised its Policy Manual to provide updated guidance for F/M student visa holders. The changes include new eligibility criteria for STEM OPT extensions, clarifications on online study options, school transfers, grace periods after OPT, and guidelines for study abroad programs. These updates aim to streamline the process and ensure compliance...
Category: Student Visas (F, M, J)
DHS Announces New Addition to STEM Designated Degree Program List: What It Means for International Students and Institutions
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...
Navigating Options for F-1 Students with Terminated SEVIS Records
Navigating the complexities of maintaining F-1 student status can be challenging. A recent discussion highlighted two primary options for F-1 students whose SEVIS records have been terminated: traveling outside the United States to re-enter or applying for reinstatement. Each option has its pros and cons, depending on individual circumstances. This blog post...
Streamlining the Nonimmigrant Visa Process for U.S. College Graduates
The Biden-Harris Administration recently announced new measures to streamline the process of obtaining employment-based nonimmigrant visas for graduates from U.S. colleges who have secured job offers. This initiative is designed to expedite the issuance of nonimmigrant work visas for eligible individuals.
Key Highlights of the InitiativeUnlocking the Door to Opportunity: Navigating the New USCIS Guidelines for International Students
In a significant move aimed at enhancing the clarity and accessibility of its policies, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has unveiled updated guidelines within its policy manual, specifically targeting the F and M student visa categories. This comprehensive update serves as a beacon of guidance for international students navigating the...
WASHTECH DECISION: BREAKING NEWS ABOUT THE STEM OPT EXTENSION PROGRAM.
What visa do I need to attend an American college?
WASHTECH DECISION: BREAKING NEWS ABOUT THE STEM OPT EXTENSION PROGRAM. Continue reading…
The United States has some of the greatest colleges and universities in the nation. The U.S. is considered the top country of choice by the largest number of international students. At present, at least one million international students are...
Summary of the Major Provisions of the Recently Promulgated Regulatory Action – F-1 OPT STEM Extension.
Volunteer positions that are not directly related to your course of study do not qualify as optional practical training (OPT) and must not be listed as OPT employment. Reporting non-qualifying volunteer opportunities as OPT employment will be deemed a violation of your reporting requirements and subject you to removal from the United States.
In...