An F-1 student who is approved for optional practical training (OPT) and has a qualifying degree in a STEM (science, technology, engineering, or math) field, from an accredited university typically is eligible to apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension following completion of the initial...
... My B-2 expires in a few days. I know I should not start my program of study until the USCIS approves my request for change of status to F-1. If the USCIS does not approve my F-1 status by the start of my program...
Each quarter, the Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) releases a report that provides key data from the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) on the makeup of international students who choose to study in the United States. A look at these quarterly reports can...
Answer In general, a visa "stamp" is only required for purposes of reentering the U.S. after foreign travel. Otherwise, one can change status within the U.S. One's dependent typically should be able to receive an H-4 "stamp" in this scenario. (09.Jan.2017)In frequent sessions of our Chat,...
Answer If USCIS did not make a finding of an F-1 status violation when your STEM OPT application was denied, you should still be eligible for the 60-day grace period after the expiration of your initial OPT employment authorization. You should complete the transfer of your...
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) generally will only recognize a U.S. degree that is issued by an accredited institution. Moreover, the accreditation must be granted by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). How is a degree viewed, however,...
On December 23, 2016, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is implementing a substantial filing fee increase for nearly all case types. The raised fees apply to cases received by the USCIS on or after December 23rd. A more detailed overview of the raise...
On Saturday, December 10, 2016, President Obama signed into law a continuing resolution designed to fund the federal government through April 28, 2017. Included in the spending bill were various immigration provisions, including an extension of the employment-based, fifth preference (EB5) regional center program, the...
... but I have two more offers from other companies that want me to work part time on projects for them (no more than 10-15 hours per week). Can I accept their offers while continuing my current full-time employment? Answer Under the current STEM OPT rules, while...
... Prior to the expiration of my EAD, I applied for the 24-month OPT STEM extension, which has just been denied. My attorney says that the decision was incorrect and that we should file a motion to reopen / reconsider the denial. To be sure...
