U.S. visa latest changes for international students
The United States has always been a destination for students and skilled workers. This international talent hub is currently experiencing significant changes in its immigration landscape.
The recent changes in visa regulations, particularly the significant increase in fees, new rules, and certain specific exceptions, are expected to reshape the experience of those hoping to study and work in the United States.
H-1B visa
The H-1B visa is essential for companies looking to hire foreign skilled labor, but the fees have significantly increased. The registration fee has increased from the previously symbolic $10 to $215 per person. This is an astonishing leap of 2150%. The application fee has significantly increased, rising from $460 to $780, marking a 70% increase.
This fee does not include any additional costs that the applicant may have to pay. Fees for the refugee program, fees for fraud prevention and detection, fees under Law 114-113, and the United States. Competition Law and Workforce Development (ACWIA).
Green card application.
The cost of obtaining a green card has significantly increased. The typical fee for an I-130 application is $675 for paper submission and $625 for online submission. In the past, the fee for online applications was $535.
In addition, there will be an additional fee of $600 for applications concerning non-immigrant workers (Form I-129) or applications for certain non-immigrant transferees in the Northern Mariana Islands (Form I-129CW), as well as for situations related to immigration applications for foreign workers. (Form I-140).
The new fee structure has increased the financial burden for those applying for asylum in the United States.
To simplify the process and enhance security
S.C.I. claims that this increase in fees is necessary to meet operating costs and update infrastructure. There are two changes that will affect students.
Very Strong Security for Student Visa
Applicants for student visas F, M, and J need to provide accurate passport information when making an appointment. The purpose of the changes is to simplify the visa appointment system, improve the accuracy of information, and prevent scheduling errors.
Employment Authorization Document Extension Relief
As a positive development, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that it will relax the eligibility criteria for work permits (EAD) for certain applicants facing employment challenges. This includes extending the maximum duration of the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to 5 years. This will provide greater stability and reduce the frequency of update requests from qualified individuals.
The impact of practical training opportunities for international students
The United States offers a variety of training opportunities for students. Everyone has clearly defined opportunities.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) has two different phases
pre-completion and post-completion. The OPT F-1 visa helps students gain practical experience while working part-time. After graduation, the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows for work for a maximum of 12 months.
CPT program.
The CPT program offers full-time job opportunities directly related to academic studies by combining internships (CPT) with classroom learning and practical application.
Students holding an M-1 visa can utilize Practical Training (PT)
After completing a vocational training (PT) program if they are registered in it. The qualification period for physical therapy depends on the duration of their program.
Before Changes
The changes in the U.S. visa regulations, as outlined below, are unlikely to have an impact on students' internship opportunities. Although some rules have been relaxed, the extension fees have slightly increased.
1. Before the extension of STEM OPT: Students holding an F-1 visa are eligible to extend their OPT period by 24 months.
2. Employer's requirement: Students must work for an employer participating in the electronic confirmation system to qualify for an extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). (e-Verify).
3. Reporting requirements: Students on STEM OPT must report to the Designated School Official (DSO) every six months when there are changes in their employment status or personal information.
After the change, the extended period for Steam will last for 24 months (until April 1, 2024).
1. Employer's requirements: The condition for employer participation in electronic confirmation has been removed. However, employers still need to provide formal training and educational objectives for STEM OPT students, which will be documented in the training plan through the I-983 form.
2. Report requirements: The number of reports will be reduced to once every six months.
3. Unemployment benefits: The total duration of unemployment benefits has increased from 150 days to 180 days during the period following the completion of Optional Practical Training (OPT) and the STEM OPT extension.
4. The application fee: for the STEM OPT (I-765) extension has increased from $410 to $470 for online applications, and from $520 for paper applications.
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