USCIS Addresses Immigration Status

In a policy memorandum issued last week, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) addressed its so-called “Adjustment of Status” policy changes.

The memo generally requires individuals seeking United States citizenship who are currently in the U.S. to return to their native country when applying for legal permanent residency. The memo is effective immediately and will only provide minimal exemptions from the policy for those residing in the U.S. under extraordinary circumstances.

The memo and policy changes are unrelated to the pending final rules regarding the Duration of Status proposal for international students attending American colleges and universities. The Duration of Status regulations, when finalized, will impact international students and the length of time they will have to be able to complete their courses of study.

NAICU joined others in the higher education community in submitting comments to USCIS, which is housed within the Department of Homeland Security, regarding concerns with the Duration of Status proposal. In particular, NAICU is concerned that such changes will adversely affect a host of students, including those seeking graduate and medical degrees. The final rule has not been issued but is expected soon.

For more information, please contact:
Karin Johns