News

U.S. Consulates Closed in China (Dec 15, 2022)

U.S. visa services in Beijing, Wuhan, Shenyang, and Guangzhou have been temporarily suspended due to COVID conditions. The situation is fluid, however, and may change across China as COVID transmission rates increase.

Winter 2022/2023 Travel Guidance

As we approach the holiday season, we are reaching out to advise on international travel. Our advice depends on your specific situation:

Onsite Requirement for J-1 Visa Holders

The U.S. Department of State (USDOS) requires that J-1 exchange visitors participate in onsite work at least three days per week until June 30, 2023 after which time full-time presence will be required.

Scams Directed at International Students and Scholars

A number of international students and scholars around the Bay Area (including UCSF) have been targeted by a phone “scam” involving someone claiming to be from a government agency.

Letter from UC System to Department of State and Department of Homeland Security

On behalf of the ten campuses of the University of California (UC), UC President Michael Drake and UC Chancellors express the urgent need for immediate action to allow international s

Expansion of Nonimmigrant Interview Waivers - Visa Renewals

The Department of Homeland Security has temporarily expanded the ability of consular officers to waive the in-person interview requirement for individuals applying for a nonimmigrant visa in the same classification.  Previously, only those applicants whose nonimmigrant visa expired within 24 mont

J-1 Amendment Request Requirement - 60 days into the future 

Due to COVID-19 related travel restrictions

US Department of State Requires Negative COVID-Test Prior to Traveling to the US

US Department of State Requires Negative COVID-Test Prior to Traveling to the US: all air passengers two years of age or older arrivi

USCIS Announces Increase in Premium Processing Fee - Effective Immediately

USCIS announced today that premium processing fees have increased from $1,440 to $2,500. The change is effective immediately and primarily impacts UCSF's H-1B population.

Presidential Proclamation of Certain Graduate Students and Researchers from the PRC

On May 29, 2020, a Presidential Proclamation was issued which bars visa issuance for certain foreign nationals who are both affiliated with the People’s Republic of China (PRC), and affiliated with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) or other institutions supporting the PLA’s “military-civil fusion...