Earlier today, December 15, 2015, a USCIS representative contacted AILA to clarify that no decision has yet been made that STEM optional practical training (OPT) employment authorization documents (EADs) will remain valid after February 12, 2016. The USCIS has now clarified that this question is...
Immigration law is highly complex, often considered on the level of federal securities law or tax law in its intricacy and complexity. Misunderstandings are common and, frequently, get mixed in with helpful tips exchanged online and elsewhere. A common misconception is a mythical grace period...
... My pre-completion OPT, however, has been approved until the end of the next term. My DSO told me that my early graduation will result in a termination of my pre-completion OPT. Can I apply for post-completion OPT now? Answer Unfortunately, there is no easy way to...
Answer This question would have to be asked of the school. Universities set their own definitions for the various tuition levels. (07.Dec.2015)In frequent sessions of our Chat, Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law in real time. For details on chat...
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is making it easier for Nepali F-1 students, experiencing financial difficulties as a result of the April 25, 2015 earthquake in Nepal, to obtain employment authorization documents (EADs). In a notice published on November 9, 2015, the DHS announced...
Answer Yes, H1B workers can attend school in addition to their employment. The guidance on this is brief; it just says that the H1B job must be the primary purpose for being in the United States. So, we usually think of this as full-time work, part-time...
... 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...
