New DHS Rule: Initial Guidance for J-1 Scholars and Departments Who Support J-1 Scholars
Holly Nigorizawa
Posted July 29, 2026On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a new rule that changes how J-1 exchange visitors and their J-2 dependents are admitted to and extend their stay in the United States. The rule also impacts international students. International F-1 and J…USCIS Adjustment of Status Memo - May 22, 2026
Holly Nigorizawa
CIS published a policy memorandum regarding Adjustment of Status applications. The memo states that Adjustment of Status is considered an extraordinary form of discretionary relief and indicates that USCIS may further limit eligibility for Adjustment of Status, instead directing certain individuals…H-1B Premium Processing Fee Increase (Effective Feb 1, 2026)
DHS has issued a final rule increasing the H-1B premium processing fee from $2,805 to $2,965, effective for H-1B petitions submitted to USCIS on or after March 1, 2026.This adjustment reflects inflation, the DHS filing and anti-fraud fees will remain unchanged.Presidential Proclamation: Expanded Travel Ban (December 17, 2025)
On December 16, 2025, the U.S. President issued a new and expanded Travel Proclamation - Restricting and Limiting the Entry of Foreign Nationals To Protect The Security Of The United States - that limits entry to the United States for nationals of certain countries.Travel and Immigration Document Reminders
Matt Loehrer
On October 24, 2025 the ISSO emailed all active UCSF-sponsored visa holders the following reminders:International TravelThe ISSO still advises caution with non-essential international travel. Our travel webpages have been updated to provide detailed guidance: