Are you studying in the U.S. on an F-1 visa? Maintaining your student status is crucial to staying in compliance with U.S. immigration law. This guide outlines the essential steps for keeping your F-1 status active—from required documents and academic obligations to travel, work authorization (CPT/OPT), and dependent rules. Download our PDF...
Category: Student Visas (F, M, J)
ICE Restores Terminated SEVIS Records for F-1 Students: What You Need to Know
As of April 24, 2025, reports have confirmed that ICE’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) is in the process of restoring SEVIS records for certain international students that were previously terminated.
This development follows legal actions brought against recent SEVIS record terminations. Some of the affected students were...
Understanding Visa Revocations and Status Terminations for International Students
In recent weeks, U.S. higher education institutions have been grappling with an uptick in F-1 visa revocations and terminations of student status. These developments have raised concerns across campuses and left many international students unsure of their rights and next steps. While some high-profile revocations were linked to protest activities, the latest...
What It Really Means to Maintain F-1 Status and What Happens If It’s Lost
Recent visa revocations targeting international students have brought renewed urgency to the question: what does it truly mean to “maintain F-1 status” in the United States? As universities report unexpected SEVIS record terminations and students are left scrambling for answers, it's crucial to understand what maintaining lawful status entails—and what to do...
F-1 Visa Revocation and SEVIS Termination: What International Students Need to Know
In light of recent federal enforcement trends, international students in the United States—especially those on F-1 visas—are facing a new level of scrutiny. The Department of State and Department of Homeland Security have ramped up monitoring and enforcement actions targeting visa compliance, particularly through the use of social media and public activity.
DHS Begins Social Media Screening for Antisemitism in Immigration Applications
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), has announced a new policy aimed at enhancing national security. Effective immediately, USCIS officers will begin reviewing social media content and other public activity for signs of antisemitic views...
Day One CPT: A Comprehensive Guide for F-1 Students
For many F-1 students in the United States, the H-1B lottery is a crucial step toward achieving their professional goals. But what happens if you aren’t selected? One alternative option that has gained attention is Day One CPT. Below, we’ll explore what Day One CPT is, how it works, and the important...
Department of State’s Enhanced Social Media Vetting & Student Visa Revocations
We would like to bring to your attention a recent development regarding the U.S. Department of State’s enhanced screening measures involving social media vetting and the revocation of certain student visas. This follows guidance consistent with Executive Orders 14161 and 14188.
Key Points:How Schools and Academic Institutions Can Respond to Federal Immigration Raids and Investigations
With increased immigration enforcement efforts under the current administration, schools and academic institutions must be prepared to handle visits from federal agencies, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The recent rescission of “sensitive locations” protections, combined with the expanded authority of federal agents such as the FBI, DEA, and U.S. Marshals,...
Being a Great Person with a Big Heart is Not a U.S. Immigration Category
Many people reach out to immigration attorneys with heartfelt stories about individuals they know who are wonderful, hardworking, and kind-hearted, hoping to sponsor them for U.S. immigration. While character and goodwill are commendable, U.S. immigration law does not have a visa category based solely on these qualities. Immigration to the United States...