Immigration News Updates

Student Status Termination Updates

Updated 9/12/2025

While we are not aware of any UT Southwestern students affected at this time, UT Southwestern’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) is closely monitoring these developments to support the well-being of all our students and employees, including members of our international community.

Visa Applicants Must Now Apply in Country of Citizenship or Residence

All nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applicants must schedule their visa interview appointments at a U.S. embassy or consulate in either their country of nationality or residence. Previously, applicants had flexibility to schedule interviews in third countries with shorter wait times, which sometimes made scheduling easier or faster.

Now Available - Modernized USCIS Payments

9/03/2025

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a new way to pay fees using electronic debit from a U.S. bank account. Effective immediately, individuals can make transactions directly to USCIS by completing and signing Form G-1650, Authorization for ACH Transactions, and filing it with their applications, petitions, or requests.

Visa Bulletin for September 2025 Just Released

8/29/2025

The U.S. Department of State has released the September 2025 Visa Bulletin (VB), which outlines priority dates for green card applicants. When that date becomes "current," eligible applicants may file for adjustment of status (if in the U.S.) or apply for an immigrant visa abroad.

Proposed Rule Change for the Duration of Status for F and J Visa Holders

8/28//2025

The Department of Homeland Security has proposed a new rule change to eliminate the duration of status for F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors. As we acquire more information, the Office of International Affairs will provide further updates on this matter.

Termination of CHNV Parole Program

7/30/2025

On March 25, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the termination of the Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans (CHNV) parole program. All CHNV parole would end on April 24, 2025, unless it had already expired before that date.

Visa Bulletin for August 2025 Just Released

Updated 7/17/2025

The U.S. Department of State has released the August 2025 Visa Bulletin, which outlines priority dates for green card applicants. A priority date determines an applicant’s place in the visa queue. When that date becomes "current," eligible applicants may file for adjustment of status (if in the U.S.) or apply for an immigrant visa abroad.

Full or Partial Travel Ban Effective June 9, 2025

Starting June 9, 2025, the U.S. will impose a full travel ban on 12 countries and a partial ban on 7 others. Current visa holders in the U.S. are unaffected; those abroad should return before the ban if possible. The Office of International Affairs will offer support. Contact 214-648-0010 for help.

H-1B Alert: Random Biometric Appointments

USCIS is randomly requiring biometrics (fingerprints & photo) for some H-1B applicants. Apply at least 6 months before the start date – processing may be delayed until biometrics are complete.