USCIS has issued updated guidance for F-1 student visa adjudications and clarified STEM OPT employer requirements.
USCIS has clarified F-1 maintenance-of-status rules and tightened STEM OPT employer site-visit and reporting expectations, while preserving the 24-month STEM OPT extension.
F-1 students currently studying or planning to study in the US, especially those in STEM fields planning to use OPT and the 24-month STEM OPT extension.
Keep your I-20 and SEVIS records current, document your STEM OPT training plan (Form I-983) carefully, and consult an advisor before international travel while on OPT.
USCIS has released updated policy guidance for F-1 visa adjudications, reaffirming the dual-intent flexibility for certain F-1 students and clarifying employer obligations under the STEM OPT extension.
School Designated Officials (DSOs) must keep SEVIS records current, and students should ensure their I-20 forms reflect any program changes promptly.
The update also clarifies travel and reentry procedures for students on approved OPT and STEM OPT.
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The Department of Home Affairs has refined the Genuine Student requirement and updated English-language thresholds for subclass 500 visas.
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