F-1 & OPT

New visa rule: “Fear of return” question

Nonimmigrant applicants, including F-1 students, may face a direct question about fear of returning home. A “yes” answer can materially increase denial risk.

Designed to identify applicants who may later seek asylum protection.

DHS reviewing OPT & STEM OPT

OPT is still active, but the program is under formal policy review and could face future restrictions or structural changes.

OPT is not cancelled, but forward planning now matters more.

OPT processing delays increasing

Processing is officially around 90–120 days, but many applicants are experiencing much longer real-world waits.

Students should apply as early as allowed and prepare for premium processing where needed.

Expanded visa screening & vetting

More background checks and stricter scrutiny mean weak profiles or incomplete documentation are more likely to be delayed or refused.

Interview waivers reduced

Many applicants who previously expected dropbox or waiver processing now need an in-person interview.

This affects F-1 visa stamping and renewals in practical terms.

Apply from home country / residence rule

Third-country stamping became harder because applicants are increasingly expected to apply from their home country or country of residence.

Possible end of “Duration of Status” flexibility

Policy discussions continue around shifting F-1 from a flexible stay model to more fixed-duration control.

That would mean tighter timelines and more extension dependence.

Stricter CPT / OPT compliance checks

Enforcement risk is higher around fake jobs, consultancy misuse, and Day-1 CPT structures.

Students need real employers, strong records, and compliant work setups.