Mark A Ivener, A Law Corporation

Category: F Visas


State Dept. Releases Annual Student and Exchange Visitor Update

The Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs has released the annual update of its student and exchange visitor (F, M, and J visas) issues. The cable asks posts to have a clear procedure in place for expediting F, M, and J appointments, with first-time applicants being given the highest priority. The cable also discusses… Read More

DHS Issues Supplemental Q&A on OPT Interim Rule for F-1 Students

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued supplemental questions and answers (Q&A) on an interim final rule, effective April 8, 2008, that extends the maximum period of optional practical training (OPT) from 12 months to 29 months for F-1 students who have completed a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) degree and accept employment with… Read More

DHS Issues Interim Rule on Optional Practical Training for F-1 Students

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued an interim final rule, effective April 8, 2008, that extends the maximum period of optional practical training (OPT) from 12 months to 29 months for F-1 students who have completed a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) degree and accept employment with employers enrolled in U.S. Citizenship and… Read More

DOS Testifies on Status of Visa Policy for Foreign Students, Scholars, Exchange Visitors

Stephen “Tony” Edson, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Visa Service, testified on February 7, 2008, before the House of Representatives’ research and science education subcommittee. Among other things, he noted that foreign students contribute over $13 billion annually to the U.S. economy. “Their work significantly boosts our academic and scientific research and their exposure… Read More

Department of State Issues Record Number of Student Visas

The Department of State announced on November 16, 2007, that it has issued a record number of visas to students coming to study in the U.S., exceeding pre-9/11 levels. During fiscal year 2007, the Department issued more than 651,000 student and exchange visitor visas, which was 10 percent more than last year and 90,000 more… Read More