There’s chat online about the US government not respecting grace periods for foreign students. I am concerned because I was working on getting my PhD proposal approved to pursue my doctorate at another university starting in the Fall next year, after I complete my MSc. Since I will have to undergo a grace period while transferring schools and programs, I would like to know how it is really working out in reality.
Answers
Lynne Feldman
EB-5 Immigration attorneysIt is in the regulations, so should be respected.
Renata Duarte
EB-5 Immigration attorneysThe 60 day F1 grace period that follows completion of a degree or post‑completion OPT remains in force and is being honored by both USCIS and ICE/SEVP. Most problems can be avoided if you:
1. Stay in the United States until your new SEVIS record is active, or depart and apply for a new F‑1 visa.
2. Stop working no later than the program‑end date (or the OPT EAD expiration date).
3. Coordinate with both your current and your new DSOs to release your SEVIS record before the 60‑day deadline. USCIS confirms that a transfer
initiated within the grace period is fully valid.
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