From J-1 Au Pair to F-1 Student: Can You Change Status in the U.S.?
Planning to study after your au pair program? Understand the two routes to F-1, the 212(e) restriction, and the questions to resolve before your J-1 program ends.
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Diversity Visa Update: DV-2027 Registration Remains on Hold After Appeals Court Ruling
An appeals court has paused the order requiring DV-2027 registration to reopen. Understand the difference between entry, selection and visa issuance, plus what international students should know.
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EB-3: Employment-Based Immigration (Third Preference)
This topic may feel a bit different from what we usually discuss, but it is highly relevant to many F-1 students. Recently, you may have heard stories about someoneâor someone they knowâgetting sponsored for a green card by a business owner, whether itâs a school, restaurant, or company with sufficient financial capacity. In this article,…
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Before Traveling in 2026: What F-1 Students Should Have Ready
Whether youâre hopping on a domestic flight, driving to another state, or traveling internationally, the reality for F-1 students in 2026 is this: you may be asked to prove your immigration status at any time â not just at the border. With increased immigration enforcement and ICE activity across the country, being prepared is no…
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Immigration Updates That May Affect F-1 Students
Archive article: original publication date retained. This is not a current policy announcement. Check official guidance and consult your DSO before acting. Whatâs Changing and How to Prepare U.S. immigration policies change from time to time, and international students often wonder how these changes may affect their plans to study in the United States. This…
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E2 Investor: Myths or Facts?
We would like to use this article to congratulate M.A. for his recent approval of status change from F1 student to E2 investor. Welbright is proud to have helped him in every step from the get-go. It took us about three months to register an LLC, apply for required licenses, negotiate buyout and lease, renovate…
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A Guide to Maintaining F1 Status in the U.S.
Studying in the United States on an F-1 visa can be an exciting and rewarding experience. It offers not only academic opportunities but also exposure to new cultures and meaningful connections. However, maintaining F-1 status requires careful attention to immigration rules and responsibilities. This guide outlines the key requirements and practical steps to help you…
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Demystifying Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F1 Students
Archive article: original publication date retained. This is not a current policy announcement. Check official guidance and consult your DSO before acting. Are you on an exciting F-1 student journey in the United States? You might have heard about Optional Practical Training or OPT which will allow you to work in the U.S. Is it…
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CPT and OPT: The Differences and Similarities
Archive article: original publication date retained. This is not a current policy announcement. Check official guidance and consult your DSO before acting. As an international student pursuing higher education in the United States, there are two of the most crucial acronyms that you want to know about: CPT (Curricular Practical Training) and OPT (Optional Practical…
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Benefits of Studying in the U.S. as an F-1 Student
Archive article: original publication date retained. This is not a current policy announcement. Check official guidance and consult your DSO before acting. Studying in the United States as an international student can be an incredibly enriching and life-changing experience. The F-1 status, specifically designed for academic purposes, allows individuals from around the world to stay…
