Answer An employment letter, valid F-1 visa, updated I-20, and the actual OPT card are required for reentry. This is generally a routine process, and is not at all uncommon. Applying for an F-1 visa while in OPT may present some greater risks however. (28.Nov.2016)In frequent...
Representatives of the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) recently addressed some common questions regarding the completion of the training plan for STEM OPT students (form I-983). A number of important topics were discussed, including the issue of potentially placing an F-1 STEM OPT student...
Answer If a student on OPT changes employers while his/her STEM OPT application is pending, s/he has to report the change of employers to the DSO, provide the DSO with a new Training Plan (I-983 form) completed and signed by both the employer and the student,...
Answer The 24-month STEM OPT rule that went into effect on May 10, 2016, contains several reporting requirements for both the employer and the student employee. With regard to the self-evaluation requirement, the student must complete self-evaluation reports using the attachments to Form I-983 signed by...
Answer As long as the foreign national continues to work in accordance with the terms of the approved H1B petition, it generally is permissible to also enroll in school as a full-time student. (31.Oct.2016)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide...
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) implemented a policy on November 5, 2015 that requires consular officers to revoke the nonimmigrant visas of individuals arrested for, or convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), driving while intoxicated (DWI), or similar alcohol-related crimes. The DOS has...
USTraveldocs.com, which handles visa appointment services for U.S. embassies and consulates, has issued a public notice, advising stakeholders of a large, temporary increase in visa appointment availability. The notice states: The U.S. embassy and the four U.S. consulates in India have made thousands of extra visa...
Answer Depending on the stage of GC processing, one may have difficulty receiving an F-1 visa, because one has demonstrated "immigrant intent" by pursuing permanent residence. (17.Oct.2016)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law in real...
Under a new policy that goes into effect on November 1, 2016, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) will no longer accept photographs of visa and passport applicants wearing eyeglasses. The reason for the policy change is to ensure the photographs can be easily scanned...
... but did not ask my DSO to authorize the reduction in my course load. My DSO told me that this resulted in F-1 status violation and she helped me apply for reinstatement. My reinstatement application is currently pending, but I plan to go home...
