News & Announcements

Elimination of Duration of Status

The final rule for the elimination of the Duration of Status (D/S) was released by the Department of Homeland Security. The rule goes into effect on September 15, 2026. The final rule modifies how periods of authorized stay are determined for F-1 and J-1 nonimmigrant categories in addition to other changes.

• Release date: 07-17-2026
• Who does this impact? J-1 and F-1 visa holders as well as their dependents

USCIS Adjustment of Status Memo

The memo states that the Adjustment of Status is considered an extraordinary form of discretionary relief. Students and scholars who are pursuing permanent residency, or considering filing for Adjustment of Status, are strongly encouraged to consult directly with an immigration attorney.

• Release date: 05-22-2026

• Who does this impact? International students and scholars wishing or planning to adjust their status from nonimmigrant to immigrant.

Presidential Proclamation Restricting Entry of Foreign Nationals from Certain Countries

Further Restricts and Limits the Entry of Foreign Nationals

• Release date: 12-16-2025

• Who does this impact? Visa holders from the following countries: Afghanistan, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burma, Burundi, Chad, Cote d’Ivoire, Cuba, Dominica, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Gabon, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, The Gambia, Togo, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Venezuela, Yemen, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Adjudicating Nonimmigrant Visa Interviews

Nonimmigrant visa interviews must be scheduled at the US Consulate or Embassy in applicant's country of nationality or residence (with exceptions).

• Release date: 12-15-2025

• Who does this impact? Applicants for U.S. nonimmigrant visas from the following countries: Afghanistan, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Chad, Cuba, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Niger, Russia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, Yemen, and Zimbabwe.

Expanded Screening and Vetting for H-1B and Dependent H-4 Visa Applicants

The State Department will expand the requirement that an online presence review be conducted.

• Release date: 12-3-2025

• Who does this impact? Applicants of H-1B visas and dependent H-4 visas

UC Office of the President: Immigration FAQ

Find answers to common questions about possible federal immigration enforcement actions on UC property and stay informed about what immigration officers can and cannot do on campus.

• Release date: 11-4-2025

• Who does this impact? Individuals encountering immigration enforcement 

If you have questions about how the above policy may impact your immigration status, please contact a member of our team. Email addresses, appointment schedulers and phone numbers can be found on our People Directory page.