| Office of International Students & Scholars

January 1, 2026 USCIS Policy Memorandum on Pending and Approved Immigration Benefits

(Originally December 3, 2025)

USCIS has issued an updated policy memoranda impacting individuals born in or nationals of high-risk countries designated under Presidential Proclamations 10949 and 10998, leading to processing holds, re-reviews of approved benefits, and a pause on asylum applications.

Navigating the Future: Visa Options after F-1 OPT and J-1 AT

Do you have questions about moving from F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) or J-1 Academic Training (AT) to H-1B status? The H-1B Lottery? Other non-immigrant options for working in the U.S. after OPT/AT? To explore these issues more and learn how the cap H-1B lottery works, join us for an immigration information session with Attorneys Aaron Blumberg and Kimberly Grant of Fragomen.

Work Visa Options for Artists after F-1 OPT

Interested in how to work in the U.S. after your F-1 OPT period? Attend this virtual event where immigration attorneys Will Spitz and Amanda Gupta from Covey Law will discuss the specific visa options available to artists, such as the O-1 visa. They will review how to qualify for these visas and what steps you can take now to help make a strong case.