This presentation is a three-part series on the procedural and policy changes issued by the various U.S. agencies governing legal immigration, and the impact of these changes on foreign students in the U.S. with student, scholar or trainee visas such as F, M or J, as well as their spouses and dependents.

Immigration Senior Counsel Maria Mejia-Opaciuch provides practical tips and insight into how these changes could impact future green card or residence applications via family- or employment-based petitions.

Part 1:

  • The Unlawful Presence Memorandum and its effect on travel and accrual of unlawful presence by students

Part 2:

  • Foreign travel after graduation and under optional practical training (OPT) endorsement
  • Delays and procedural changes in petition processing at the USCIS and delays in visa stamping at U.S. consulates affecting start dates

Part 3:

  • Employment as a tenured professional in academia
  • Employment as a professional staff member in academia

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.