On January 23, 2016, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia granted the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) an additional three months to complete its review, and possible incorporation, of public comments for its proposed, revised STEM OPT regulation, which was previously...
... The USCIS has just approved my reinstatement application. I would like to apply for authorization for curricular practical training (CPT), and to register it as a practicum for credit. Am I eligible for CPT? Answer A student, whose F-1 status was reinstated, may be immediately eligible...
This series of articles has been updated. Please find the updated version of Part 3....
... I understand that, if the petition is accepted for processing, I will be eligible for the cap-gap benefit (i.e. the extension of my F-1 status with employment authorization) until September 30th, unless the petition is denied or withdrawn. Would I be able to continue...
... My DSO explained to me that, if my petition is accepted for processing, I will be eligible for the cap-gap benefit, which will extend my OPT authorization and F-1 status until September 30th. My wife and child are in F-2 status as my dependents....
The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) is nearing its goal of fully staffing the field representative program. These representatives are involved with the F-1 and M-1 school certification process. They also play a key role in assuring school compliance with F-1 and M-1 related...
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has filed a motion requesting a delay in the termination of the existing STEM optional practical training (OPT) rule. The reason for this request is that the DHS needs more time to put a new STEM OPT regulation...
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...
