Study in US: New Guidelines For F-1 Visas Released By Consulate

On December 20 2023, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) revealed a novel policy designed especially for foreign students on F-1 Visas. Students now have the solid chance to apply for a visa in person under the employment-based classification thanks to this revolutionary development.

The USCIS claims that the policy offers comprehensive details about requirements, school transfers, on- and off-campus jobs, and practical training. The significant modification is that foreign students are now required to keep their foreign domicile, have an immigrant visa petition approved, or have an application for permanent labor certification pending.

International Students Must Need To Show This Intend

Moreover, International students also need to show that they intend to leave the country at the end of their temporary stay. On the other hand, the USCIS advice provides requirements for F students undertaking STEM-related optional practical training (OPT). Hires on F student visas must fulfill certain conditions, even for startup firms.

Know These Requirements Before Applying

Greg Pardo, the spokesperson for the U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai, provided commentary on the development and emphasized that students need to be engaged in an authorized academic, language-training, or vocational program. Other requirements include full-time attendance, fluency in English, having enough money for self-support, and continuing to live abroad.

What Did USCIS Stated Before

On June 3, 2023, USCIS stated that premium processing will now be available to select F-1 students requesting extensions of their OPT and STEM OPT. The goal of the streamlined procedure and online filing, according to USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou, is to facilitate international students’ immigration.

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