The proposed regulation represents the most significant change to student and exchange visitor immigration in over 40 years. As stated in the preamble:
"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." (Page 1)
Students in the following fields will be able to obtain STEM OPT extensions for 24 months:
For latest updates, watch this video with Rajiv from Dec 28, 2021.
The travel bans necessitated by the COVID pandemic have created much flux and uncertainty. Synthesizing the information now finally available from various US government sources, it is clearer now that many intending travelers can seek and obtain an exemption from the ban under a series of provisions for a National Interest Exception (NIE).
Radio Show Discussing Overview of the new I-140 EAD Regulations
Discussing I-140 EAD FAQ in community conference call