USCIS has posted an important update regarding H-1B filings (https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/h-1b-specialty-occupations). Below is a summary of how this change impacts our Penn community. Who Must Pay Applies to: Does not apply to: Payment Instructions Exceptions The Secretary of Homeland Security may grant an exception only in extraordinarily rare circumstances, meeting all of the following criteria: Exception requests, including…
This is to confirm that ISSS continues to file H-1B petitions and has not ceased H-1B processing following the recent Presidential Proclamation. Key Points Regarding the $100,000 Fee: ISSS will continue to move forward with all H-1B petitions, both for current employees and new hires who are in the United States. Our goal remains to support timely and efficient processing of all…
As the current U.S. federal government shutdown will have an impact on crucial immigration services, ISSS has prepared a detailed Q&A regarding the potential effects on immigration matters. Please revisit this page for future update as ISSS is closely monitoring the related government announcement. If you are currently in the US maintaining a valid immigration…
What’s Happened What’s New (Recent Agency Guidance) Key Points Location Petition Status Impact of Changes Inside the U.S. Approved Petition Not impacted. May continuework and travel. Filed Petition (no decision) Not impacted. Not Yet Filed Impacted. Must meet newrequirements ($100,000payment or national interestexemption). Amendment / Extension /Change of Employer / Change of Status Unclear. Outside…
UPDATE: USCIS Guidance on H-1B Proclamation USCIS has released a memorandum providing clarification on the Presidential Proclamation restricting entry of certain H-1B nonimmigrant workers. Key Points from the Guidance: We understand how unsettling this continues to be. ISSS will monitor developments closely and share further updates as federal agencies provide additional implementation details. Travel Advisory…
The U.S. Department of State has issued updated guidance for non-immigrant visa (NIV) applicants, effective immediately: Designated Locations: For detailed information and updates, please check the embassy or consulate website where you plan to apply. Here is also a link to the State Department website for details: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/adjudicating-nonimmigrant-visa-applicants-in-their-country-of-residence-sep-6-2025.html Stay informed and plan your visa appointments carefully.
Enhance the international student experience at Penn by collaborating with international undergraduate and graduate students, as well as ISSS and other Penn offices. ISAB works on initiatives in the following areas:
Dear Penn International Students and Scholars, We know that questions often come up about the difference between a visa and immigration status. These terms are sometimes used interchangeably but actually have very different meanings that affect your rights and responsibilities while you’re here at Penn. To help you better understand, here is a clear explanation. What is a…
I’m writing to share an important update regarding the federal Visa Integrity Fee included in the FY25 Homeland Security appropriations bill, which passed the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee on July 25, 2025. While implementation details are still forthcoming, the proposed changes carry significant implications for Penn’s international students, scholars, and employees. What We Know So Far: Implications for…
Anvi’s Red and Blueprint | You probably skipped the most important orientation at Penn “It’s 10 a.m. Welcome to Penn. Please fill out these 17 forms.” My mother has already found someone to trade WhatsApp numbers with. I, jet-lagged, am wondering if it’s socially acceptable to nap under the registration table. “My child is ready…