UCLA
Dashew Center
for International Students & Scholars

Immigration Updates

Use this page to navigate developments related to immigration updates. Please find below helpful links related to recent immigration updates for F-1, J-1, and employment-based visa categories. The Dashew Center is committed to keeping our international Bruin community informed of any new developments. See important relevant information and resources shared:

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UCLA Communication:

Recent Topics & News:

  • Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers (September 19, 2025) The President issued a Presidential Proclamation that restricts the entry of H-1B workers outside the U.S. unless their sponsoring employer pays a $100,000 supplemental government fee per case or the individual qualifies for a national interest waiver. The order takes effect September 21, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time and is set to remain in place for 12 months, through September 21, 2026, unless extended. Guidance from DHS and DOS on how the policy will be enforced at consulates and ports of entry has not yet been released, leaving many details unclear. Given the uncertainty, we strongly advise against international travel at this time. H-1B workers currently abroad are advised to return to the U.S. before 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Saturday, September 20, 2025, to avoid being subject to the restriction. Read the full text on the White House website and the fact sheet for more details.

    Updated September 22, 2025: The Proclamation’s restrictions on visa issuance and entry apply only to individuals seeking visas or admission to the United States based on H-1B petitions filed with USCIS after the Proclamation’s effective date of September 21, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. EDT.

    Please see: USCIS memo and State Department memo

  • Adjudicating Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants in Their Country of Residence (September 6, 2025) Effective immediately, the Department of State has updated its instructions for all nonimmigrant visa applicants scheduling visa interview appointments.

  • Duration of Status Proposed Rule (August 28,2025) The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a rule to eliminate "Duration of Status" (D/S) for F, J and I visa holders. Instead, DHS proposes to amend its regulations by changing the admission period in the F, J, and I classifications from duration of status to an admission for a fixed time period.
  • Clarifying Discretionary Factors in Certain Immigration Benefit Requests (August 19, 2025) U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued a policy update that will enforce further scrutiny on requests for immigration benefits including temporary status, work authorization and permanent status. The update clarifies how an exercise of discretion is applied in the adjudication of a petition or application process in cases involving threats to the national interest, fraud, deceit, misrepresentation, and criminal misuse. Read the policy highlights on page 2 for more details.
  • Travel Restrictions on Nationals of Specific Countries (The White House, Presidential Proclamation - June 4, 2025) - This executive order introduces new travel restrictions and visa limitations to 19 countries, effective at 12:01 EST on Monday, June 9, 2025. The proclamation indicates that entry restrictions only apply to those persons who are outside of the U.S. and who do not already have a valid visa on the effective date of the proclamation. In addition, the proclamation provides exceptions to persons who already have lawful permanent resident status (‘green card’ holders) and dual nationals who hold passports with non-designated countries, among other exceptions. Read the Fact Sheet & Section 4 for more information.
  • Temporary Pause of Scheduling New Visa Interviews for F & J Visa Applicants (U.S. Department Of State Briefing - May 29, 2025) - The Administration confirms that a delay in visa processing is expected. While this applies to new appointments, it is important to note that those who already have scheduled visa appointments will not be affected by this delay and should expect their appointments to proceed as planned. F-1 and J-1 visa applicants are encouraged to continue preparing and submitting their applications as usual. Please check back regularly for updates on the resumption of visa appointment availability.
  • Electronic Device Searches - All travelers crossing the United States border are subject to CBP inspection. CBP officers may search a traveler’s mobile phone, computer, camera, or other electronic devices during the inspection process.
  • Social Media Screening - The U.S. Department of State requires all visa applicants to disclose their social media accounts on the DS-160 form and has been actively conducting social media vetting as part of the visa application process. Before applying for a visa or traveling, you should assess your social media activity and overall digital footprint to determine whether any action is necessary. If you have serious concerns about how your online presence may impact your visa eligibility, it's advisable to consult with an experienced immigration attorney to help you evaluate your situation and plan accordingly.

Resources:

Support to International Bruins

​​​​​UCLA Guide: How to Respond To Immigration Officers on Campus

Bruins, read the following guidance links from our campus with instructions if you are approached by immigration officers: Student Guidance and Faculty and Staff Guidance. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact the Dashew Center.

UCOP Federal Updates Page

With numerous, quickly evolving federal policy shifts underway, the University of California is working diligently to monitor these developments and seek clarity on a range of issues. We remain committed to our UC values as stated in our Principles of Community, and we will continue to pursue UC’s mission of teaching, research, and public service in the most effective ways we can. We recognize this uncertainty has caused concern across the UC community, and we will continue to share updates and resources as they become available. Navigate the UC Page.

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UCLA Newsroom Federal Updates Page

The University of California Office of the President — in collaboration with UCLA leadership and federal government relations experts — is working to understand new directives, assess their impact, ensure compliance, challenge directives when appropriate and support our community. Our top priority is to maintain clarity and stability so our important mission of teaching, research and service can continue. Read the Federal Updates for the UCLA Community.

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