International Student Services

Immigration 

Important note: If your immigration status changes at any time, you are required to notify the UTD Registrar's Office and International Student Services Office immediately.  Tuition and fee adjustments may be available to you at that time.

Student Visas

We have answers to your questions about your visa, including how to maintain your F-1 status, how to change from another visa status, what to do if you need to travel outside the U.S., and how to reinstate your F-1 status if you lose it.

Employment

United States immigration law is very specific about the types of employment an international student may undertake. Find information about on-campus employment, curricular practical training (CPT), and optional practical training (OPT) in the Employment section.

Taxes and Legal Assistance

Find specialized information about United States taxes and how to obtain professional legal assistance with immigration matters.

UTD News

Find information about what's happening at UTD by looking at the UTD newspaper link, The Mercury.

News and Updates

Changes in Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) (Posted 4/18/2007)

On April 8, 2008, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced an interim final rule affecting several aspects of OPT. The ISSO will continue to post updates as DHS releases more information regarding these changes. In the meantime, students can review available information in the "Employment" section of our website.

The information provided on this site is designed for students holding a UT Dallas I-20. If your OPT I-20 was issued by another institution, please refer to your institution’s directions regarding these changes.

There are no updates available as of April 25, 2008. Once the Department of Homeland Security publishes their Operating Instructions for the OPT extension regulations, the information will be posted on this site.

USCIS Fee Increase (6/12/2007)

The new fees for OPT and Change of Status, etc. will go into effect on July 30, 2007. (More)

USCIS Update on H-1B Visas
(4/5/2007)

USCIS releases preliminary H-1B numbers (More)

New USCIS Website
(11/3/2006)

USCIS has updated their website. (More)

USCIS Meets H-1B Visa Cap (8/4/2006)

New H-1B applications can be filed on April 7, 2007 for a start date of October 1, 2007. (More)

Visa Renewal in Mexico (10/25/2005)

Revised rules for U.S. visa applicants in Mexico available at: www.visa-usa.com. Visa appointments in Mexico must be made using this website.

USCIS Fee Increase (09/30/2005)

The USCIS fee for OPT and Change of Status will increase for applications postmarked on October 26, 2005 or after. (More)

H-1B Update and FAQ (7/8/2005)

H-1B news from USCIS and frequently asked questions associated with change of status to H-1B. (More)

More News and Updates