July 15, 2020
Dear Valued Clients:
On July 6, 2020, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which operates under Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), announced its plans to prohibit nonimmigrant F-1 and M-1 students attending schools operating entirely online from remaining in the United States and to halt U.S. Visas issued to students enrolled in programs and/or schools that were entirely online.
However, after lawsuits from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard University, the government caved in and rescinded its policy plans, reverting to the policy that went into place in March 2020, allowing international students to attend classes virtually if necessary and remain legally in the United States on student visas amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
There is speculation that the White House will now focus on having the rule apply to new students seeking F-1 and M-1 visas. However, this may be inconsequential as travel and entry into the United States is virtually impossible due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.
At Meyer Law Group, we are sympathetic to all students affected by this situation and we offer free consultation to those who believe they might lose status as a result of the recent rulings. Please contact Meyer Law Group if you have any questions or concerns regarding this policy.
Brandon Meyer
Managing Partner
Paul Chen
Partner
Jennielyn Alcarion
Senior Attorney