The following message was sent to F-1 students on 14 October 2026. On October 8, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a proposed rule titled Optional Practical Training Fees. The proposed rule …
Immigration News
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Lawsuit
This content was last reviewed and updated on October 7, 2026. On October 5, 2026, a lawsuit was filed against U.S. government by a group of higher education organizations. ISS continues to monitor the CPT …
USCIS Issues New Photo Guidance
On December 12, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a Policy Alert announcing new guidance governing the submission and reuse of photographs for immigration benefit requests. For all non-immigrant requests (Example: a Form I-765/OPT …
U.S. Travel Entry Restrictions for 19 Countries
Updated June 9, 2025 On June 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of State announced the suspension of visa issuance to foreign nationals, in alignment with the Presidential Proclamation restricting entry to the U.S. for foreign …
Update for Chinese Students Regarding May 28 Visa Policy Announcement
We want you to know we are aware of the U.S. Secretary of State’s announcement on May 28 that the administration is developing a policy that may lead to the revocation of visas for some …
Visa Appointments Resume after Three-week Suspension
Updated 18 June 2025 The following message was sent on 18 June 2025 to F-1 and J-1 international students with a UW-Madison-issued immigration document. Media outlets have reported that the U.S. Department of State …
Form DS-2019 Update – Digital Signatures & Electronic Transmission
Effective April 27, 2023, International Student Services is permitted to use digital signatures and transmit Form DS-2019 electronically. Technical functionality in SEVIS became available April 28. Any DS-2019 issued by ISS before April 28, 2023 …
Avoiding Fraud and Scams
Scams and wire fraud crimes are happening around the world. Scams can target people of any age, nationality or visa status. Unfortunately, international students in the U.S. and other countries are often targeted by criminals. …
U.S. Consular Services Suspended in China
Please be advised that all routine visa services at U.S. Embassies/Consulates in China, with few exceptions, have been cancelled due to the surge in COVID 19 infections across China. We recommend that you carefully consider …
COVID-19 Related Travel Restrictions & National Interest Exceptions (NIE)
Global travel advisories and restrictions change frequently. Check U.S. Centers for Disease Control global travel advisories and your airline for updates. You must carry your important travel documents. Proof of in-person enrollment is required if you have an Initial Attendance …