F4 Visa Bulletin Update: Waiting Time for Family-Based Sibling Immigration
The U.S. immigration system provides a specific pathway for U.S. citizens to sponsor their siblings for lawful permanent residency (“Green Card.”) The Family-Based Fourth Preference (F4) category is dedicated to the brothers and sisters of adult U.S. citizens ages twenty-one (21) and above. While this is a popular route for family reunification, the F4 category […]
Important Update Regarding F, M, and J Student Visa Application Suspension
Following the United States Department of State (“DOS”) announcement to suspend F, M, and J student visa applications at Embassies and Consulates in response to implementing new policies aimed at social media vetting, DOS has released additional information. While this action immediately impacts plans of foreign and exchange students, DOS has made it clear that […]
DOS Suspends F M and J Student Visa Interviews to Expand Social Media Vetting Process
The United States Department of State (“DOS”) has ordered all Embassies and Consulates to stop scheduling new appointments for applicants applying for F, M, and J student visas. In a released cable, DOS Secretary Marco Rubio said that the suspension is in place because DOS plans to expand the screening process of applicants’ social media. […]
USCIS Updates Guidance for F and M Nonimmigrant Visa Classification
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) has updated its guidance effective immediately regarding when students who are in either F or M nonimmigrant visa classification may be eligible for Optional Practical Training (“OPT”) extensions for Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (“STEM”) field. The updated guidance, which is found in the USCIS Policy Manual, […]