Student Visa
USCIS 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…
Read MoreChallenges with the New US Visa Scheduling System
In the past few weeks, several posts worldwide—including those in India, Australia, South Korea, and Japan—have switched from the US Traveldocs system to a new platform for appointment scheduling: US Visa Scheduling. As visa applicants navigate this change, a myriad of issues have arisen. We had previously reported about this in our blog Visa Appointment…
Read MoreProposed Changes to the H-1B Program: Quick Summary
On October 23, 2023, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will publish a notice of proposed rulemaking in the Federal Register concerning the H-1B visa program which may also impact other nonimmigrant classifications, like F-1, L-1, O, R-1, E-3, TN, etc. While these proposed rules are not yet in effect and are open for…
Read MoreVisa Appointment Scheduling Issues at Sydney, Australia
The recent launch of Sydney’s new visa appointment scheduling website was supposed to be a technological leap towards streamlined and efficient visa processing for the U.S Consulates in Australia. Instead, it has proven to be a source of frustration, confusion, and stress for visa applicants. From failed email correspondences to vanishing MRV fees, the new…
Read MoreUSCIS Introduces New Self-Service Tool for Change of Address
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has taken another leap towards digital transformation by unveiling the Enterprise Change of Address (E-COA) self-service tool. This user-friendly platform promises improved convenience for USCIS customers who have ongoing applications, petitions, or requests and need to keep their address details updated. What is the E-COA Tool? E-COA stands out…
Read MoreTips for F-1 Students to Avoid OPT Delays
Are you an F-1 student in the U.S. considering applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT)? Understanding the process of applying for employment authorization can be daunting, especially when it comes to dealing with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This blog post offers you invaluable tips on how to avoid USCIS processing delays when filing…
Read MoreF-1 Students from India Sue U.S. Government Over Denied Visas
The recent lawsuit filed by 70 F-1 students from India against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) over denied visas highlights a growing concern within the immigration community. This situation brings to light the complicated interplay between governmental regulations, the rights of visa applicants, and the responsibility of employers, particularly in the Optional Practical…
Read MoreA Guide for F-1 Visa Holders Marrying a U.S. Citizen
Introduction Navigating the complex landscape of immigration laws is challenging, especially when love is involved. The F-1 student visa is a common pathway for international students in the U.S. But what happens when an F-1 visa holder marries a U.S. citizen? This comprehensive guide explores the options and necessary steps to ensure a smooth transition.…
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