New DHS Rule Temporarily On Hold for F-1 and J-1 Individuals and Their Dependents
Holly Nigorizawa
On September 14, 2026, a federal court issued a preliminary injunction temporarily preventing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from implementing its new D/S rule affecting F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and their dependents. The new rule did not take effect on September 15, 2026.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
Matthew Loehrer
UpdateJune 2026ISSO continues to urge strong caution with non-essential international travel. Students and scholars should understand that if they are subject to consular administrative processing or a visa denial while abroad, they may be unable to return to the U.S. to continue or complete their…