Student Visa
Options after missing H-1B Lottery
For many international students and professionals aspiring to work in the United States, the H-1B visa represents a critical gateway. However, the demand for H-1B visas often exceeds the available supply, leading to a competitive lottery system. For those not selected, understanding the history and exploring alternative options is essential to continuing their professional journey…
Read MoreSelf-Employment Options on Post-Completion OPT
For many international students in the United States on F-1 visas, the transition from education to employment is a major step. The period after graduation, known as post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), allows these students to gain practical experience in their field of study. However, the requirement to find employment within 90 days to comply…
Read MoreImmigration document requirements for non-US citizens in the U.S
In the United States, immigration laws mandate that all non-U.S. citizens carry proof of their legal status. This requirement, rooted in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), emphasizes the importance of having immediate access to documentation that verifies one’s right to be in the U.S. Whether you are a visitor, a student, or a permanent…
Read MoreUnderstanding MRV Fee Receipts Expiration: Australia
Navigating the process of obtaining a visa for the United States can be daunting, especially with the ever-changing guidelines and requirements. For Australian applicants, recent updates regarding the Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fee receipts and appointment scheduling have introduced new considerations. This blog aims to clarify these changes, ensuring that prospective visa applicants are well-informed and…
Read MoreEmergency Student Visa Appointments in India: Update
In an increasingly global education landscape, the United States remains a premier destination for students worldwide. However, the journey to studying in the U.S. involves several steps, with obtaining a student visa being one of the most crucial. For prospective students in India, understanding the process and timing for obtaining a student visa appointment at…
Read MoreAutomatic Visa Revalidation in case of Change of Status
The concept of automatic visa revalidation is a vital tool for nonimmigrants in the United States, allowing for the ease of travel and flexibility in maintaining legal status. Particularly, individuals who have changed their visa status while residing in the U.S. may find themselves in a unique position when considering short trips to Canada, Mexico,…
Read MoreWork with A Pending STEM OPT Extension
In the realm of U.S. immigration law, specific provisions enable international students to extend their stay and gain valuable work experience in their field of study. One critical aspect of these provisions is the ability of students on F-1 visas to apply for a STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. Under 8 CFR 274a.12(b)(6)(iv), students…
Read MoreUSCIS Issues Guidance for F, M Status
In a recent and significant announcement, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued comprehensive policy guidance aimed at the F and M student nonimmigrant classifications. This guidance is a pivotal development for international students and U.S. educational institutions alike, offering much-needed clarity on various aspects including employment authorization, change of status, extension of…
Read MoreUSCIS Fee Increase Expected Soon
The landscape of immigration fees is changing. In early 2024, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is set to implement a significant increase in its filing fees, a development that has been looming on the horizon for some time. This move follows the agency’s previously announced proposal, which we discussed in detail in our…
Read MoreUSCIS to Increase Premium Processing Fee
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a significant update that impacts many seeking expedited processing of their immigration-related applications. Effective from February 26, 2024, there will be an increase in the filing fee for Form I-907, known as the Request for Premium Processing. This change, influenced by inflation rates and aimed at…
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