... This application was approved in August for the start date of October 1. However, because I enrolled in a degree program, I also filed an application for change of status to F-1. The F-1 application was approved in September with an immediate effect. Now,...
Newcomers to the United States face many practical challenges adapting to a new country. In an effort to ease this transition, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released updated online resources, intended to "help you settle into everyday life in the U.S." The guide,...
... I am concerned that I will not have my application for F-1 status approved prior the end of study so that I can apply for optional practical training (OPT). Is there anything I can do to expedite the decision on my application? Answer You should look...
... and enroll in an academic program that requires I hold F-1 student status. Will I be able to change my status from M-1 to F-1? Answer No, the regulations do not allow for change of status from M-1 to F-1 within the U.S. You must depart...
... Once I started working, I had two weeks of unpaid leave for health reasons. Would the two weeks I missed be counted against the maximum 90-day unemployment allowance? Answer The two-week period should not be added to your 85 days of unemployment, if you were still...
The rule proposed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to revise and reauthorize the STEM optional practical training (OPT) program was published in the federal register on October 19, 2015. The proposed rule would increase the duration of STEM OPT extensions to 24...
On Monday, October 19, 2015, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is expected to publish the new STEM optional practical training (OPT) rule in the federal register. This rule, if enacted, would allow for STEM OPT extensions of up to 24 months, which is seven...
... I also heard that the DHS is in the process of implementing a new rule so that it can continue with STEM OPT. If the new rule is not put in place by the time the current STEM OPT benefit expires, will I be...
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has completed its review of the proposed rule on STEM optional practical training (OPT). In the near future, it is very likely that the rule will be published in the federal register and stakeholders will be given at least...
As previously reported (02.Oct.2015), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) submitted a new proposed rule on STEM optional practical training (OPT) for review by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Notice of the submission is available online, but, at present, no specifics regarding the...
