Stay Informed

COVID-19 and Immigration Updates

Texas Global's International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) is providng virtual advising support and facilitating immigration requests through myIO. For information about university operations, please visit the Protect Texas Together website.

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Jump to Section

• Negative COVID-19 Test Required to Enter U.S.
• FAQs for New International Students
• FAQs for Enrolled International Students
• FAQs for Students on OPT
• FAQs for International Scholars, Faculty, and Staff
• FAQs for Departments
• Presidential Proclamations
• DHS Proposed Rule Regarding Duration of Status
• General Information
  • Travel
  • Taxes
  • General Support Information

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Negative COVID-19 Test Required to Enter U.S.   

Beginning Jan. 26, 2021, all passengers entering the U.S. by air must provide a negative COVID-19 test before boarding their flight, as required by the CDC. 

Passengers are required to get a test within three days of their departure. Written documentation of the negative test result must be provided to the airline before boarding, or the airline will not allow you to board. If you have previously been infected with COVID-19, but are no longer contagious, you can provide documentation of your recovery in place of a negative test result.

Upon arrival to the U.S., the CDC recommends that passengers get tested again 3-5 days after arrival and stay home for at least one week.

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FAQs for Newly Admitted International Students

• What are UT's plans for Spring 2021? How will UT's plans affect my ability to study in the U.S.?

  UT plans to operate on a hybrid model with most classes held online and some courses held in person or in a hybrid setting. This means that you may chose to study in the US and take at least 1 in person or hybrid course or remain in your home country to take all of your courses online.

• I was admitted to UT and began/plan to begin studies outside the U.S. What should I do to prepare to enter the U.S. for my first in semester in the U.S.?

  Please communicate your plans to your department and make sure that there will be hybrid or in person courses for you to take during the semester that you plan to attend in person. If you have not already done so, you should apply for a student visa if you do not have a valid visa. You should also make sure that you have an updated I-20 or DS-2019 indicating your intended semester stat date.

  For the Spring 2021 semester you will need to take at least 1 in person or hybrid course in order to study in the US. For the Summer or Fall 2021 semesters, please plan to take all of your courses in person.

• I have been admitted to UT. I do not know whether I will be able to arrive at UT Austin to begin the semester. What should I do?

  You have several options available to you:   

  • You may be able to begin your studies online and spend your first semester outside of the United States. Contact your academic advisor or graduate advisor to determine if this is an option for you. Please note you will not be able to accept UT employment while you are living abroad.

  • Request to defer your admission to another semester. Once the deferral has been finalized inform ISSS to have your immigration document updated accordingly. 
    • Graduate students: contact your department directly to defer your admission to a later semester. You might be able to defer your admission for up to one year.
       
    • Undergraduate students: International students with special circumstances related to enrolling this spring may request a deferment to a future term. You will receive an update on your request within two weeks of submission.

  • Arrive in the U.S. after the first day of classes. Prior to making this decision we strongly encourage you to contact ISSS and your academic department for guidance. Note in order to enter the United States, you may not plan to enroll in all online classes. Doing this without consulting ISSS may result in immigration problem.
• Will I still be able to get a student visa?

  The Department of State has announced a Phased Resumption of Visa Services. The global COVID-19 situation is dynamic and quickly changing. Please check the U.S. Department of State's visa page for announcements and updates in order to stay informed about the resumption of consular services and visa processing times. Texas Global is closely monitoring the situation and will update this page if new information becomes available. You may also wish to check the website of the U.S. embassy or consulate nearest to you for any other updates.

• I am a Chinese national, will I be able to get a U.S. visa?

  On May 29, 2020, the President issued a Proclamation on the Suspension of Entry as Nonimmigrants of Certain Students and Researchers from the People's Republic of China. The order affects Chinese nationals who have ties to an entity in the People's Republic of China (PRC) that implements or supports the PRC's Military-Civil Fusion (MCF) strategy. At this time, we have not been provided with a list of Chinese institutions who are considered to have ties to the MCF strategy. 

  New graduate students will not be issued a visa if they are found to have ties to MCF institutions. The order does not affect undergraduate students.

• Will I be able to travel to the U.S. to start my program if I get my visa?

  The current global situation is fluid. It is difficult to predict whether further restrictions will be put in place by the U.S. government for travelers, whether current restrictions will be removed, or if availability of international flights will be a concern.

  Continue to check the travel and visa restrictions that may be in place at the time you are planning to travel to the U.S. We recommend that you monitor the travel updates by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) as well as resources from your own country's governmental agencies. The Department of State has announced an exemption for students in F-1 status coming from the Schengen Area, United Kingdom and Ireland from the current travel restrictions.

  SEVP has extended the exemption from the in-person course requirement to the Spring 2021 semester. New students will need to take only one in person or hybrid course in order to be eligible to study in the US.

  Texas Global is carefully monitoring updates from the CDC, SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program), USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services), and U.S. Department of State. We will update this website as we receive new information.    

• What if I am currently in the U.S. in F-1 or J-1 status?

  Please complete all required forms in myIO to request your transfer document. Avoid all non-essential international travel, as you may not be able to re-enter the U.S. due to constantly changing travel restrictions, visa issuance suspension, and the evolving health situation.

• I am currently in the U.S. in another immigration status (H-1B, H-4, TN, etc.). What should I do?

  Please complete all required forms in myIO indicating your current status and schedule an appointment with an international student advisor to discuss your options and situation.

• What should I do if I want to defer my admissions to a future semester?

  • Graduate students: contact your department directly to defer your admission to a later semester. You might be able to defer your admission for up to one year.       
  • Undergraduate students: International students with special circumstances related to enrolling this spring may request a deferment to a future term. You will receive an update on your request within two weeks of submission.      

  Once the deferral has been finalized contact ISSS to have your immigration document updated accordingly.      

• Do I need to arrive early to meet the self-quarantine requirement?

  UT Austin follows the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of State.

  Get tested 3-5 days after travel AND stay home for 7 days after travel. Even if you test negative, stay home for the full 7 days. If your test is positive, isolate yourself to protect others from getting infected.

  If you don’t get tested, it’s safest to stay home for 10 days after travel. Avoid being around people who are at increased risk for severe illness for 14 days, whether you get tested or not.

• I am a new international student who has received a fellowship. Will I still be able to receive the fellowship if I am not able to enter the U.S.?

  In order to receive fellowship money, a student must have a U.S. address or a U.S. bank account and an active F-1 or J-1 immigration status. Since those cannot be obtained from outside of the U.S., you will need to defer the fellowship when you are able to enter the U.S. Contact your Graduate Coordinator with a request to defer your fellowship. 

• As a new student studying outside the U.S. this semester, will I be able to hold a UT academic appointment (TA/GRA/AI)?

  Unfortunately, new students who have not worked for UT Austin before will not be able to begin jobs in the Spring semester if they are studying from outside the U.S. We recommend students contact their departments to see if other sources of funding are available.

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FAQs for Currently Enrolled International Students

• How does UT's plan for spring course instruction impact my immigration status?

  UT plans to operate on a hybrid model with most classes held online and some courses held in person or in a hybrid setting. This means that you may choose to study in the US or remain in your home country as is most appropriate for your health and academic success. SEVP has extended the exemption from the in-person course requirement to the Spring 2021 semester. As a continuing F-1/ J-1 student you will be able to take as many of your courses online as appropriate for your academic program. You will need to enroll full-time in order to maintain F-1 or J-1 status.  

• I am currently outside of the U.S. and cannot return to UT this semester. Can I take all of my classes online?

  For Spring 2021, UT plans to operate on a hybrid model with most classes held online and some courses held in person or in a hybrid setting. You may take all of your classes online, as long as it is academically appropriate for your program of study. At this time UT is still developing its plans for the Summer and Fall semester. 

• Do I need a new I-20 for the spring semester? When and how will I receive it?

  If you currently have a valid I-20 you do not need an updated I-20. If you are traveling internationally and do not have a valid travel signature you can request a travel signature in myIO.

• I am a Chinese student studying at UT. How does the Presidential Proclamation about Military-Civil Fusion strategy affect me?

  The Proclamation on the Suspension of Entry as Nonimmigrants of Certain Students and Researchers from the People's Republic of China. The order affects Chinese nationals who have ties to an entity in the People's Republic of China (PRC) that implements or supports the PRC's Military-Civil Fusion (MCF) strategy.

  If you are a graduate student currently outside of the US, you may not be able to re-enter the country if it is determined that you have an affiliation to an entity that supports the MCF strategy. There is currently no clear guidance on how an affiliation will be determined, and no list of institutions has been released.  

  The order does not affect: 

  • Undergraduate students; and

  • Graduate students and researchers currently present in the United States.    

  The order also directs the Secretary of State to determine whether to cancel visas of graduate students and researchers present in the United States and who have ties to entities that support the MCF strategy. The cancellation of a visa generally does not mean that the individual must depart the U.S. However, those who have a canceled visa and leave the country would no longer be able to reenter in F or J status.

• I graduated in Fall 2020. I am considering staying in the U.S. after I graduate. What are my options?

  You have three options:

  • Remain in the U.S. and apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) (for F-1 students) or Academic Training (for J-1 students).

  • Remain in the U.S. during the grace period after your program end date (which you can find on your I-20 or DS-2019). The grace period is 60 days for F-1 students and 30 days for J-1 students.

  • Apply to another degree at UT or transfer (if eligible) your SEVIS record to another institution. To initiate, complete the Transfer Out Release Form.
• I have an academic appointment (TA/GRA/AI). Can I hold it while being away from campus?

  Continuing graduate students who will be studying online from their home countries may not begin on-campus employment unless they have previously worked on campus for UT Austin. If you are continuing previous employment, please work with your department and supervisor to make sure that you are able to meet all of the appointment requirements remotely.

• I am a J-1 student. Am I impacted by the Presidential Proclamation limiting entry of J-1 visa holders?

  No. The June 22, 2020 Presidential Proclamation does not apply to the J-1 student categories.

Curricular/Optional Practical Training Concerns

• I've been approved for CPT, and I just found out my internship will be done virtually. Do I need to make a new CPT Request?

  No, you do not need to make a new CPT request for this. We recommend you emailthe international student advisor who approved your CPT to let them know you will be working remotely. The advisor will make a note in your records with that information.

• I'm applying for CPT and will be working virtually. Which address should I enter on my CPT Request?

  You should enter the employer's address in the employer address section of the CPT Request form.

• Can I file my OPT application online?

  F-1 students must complete the Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization and mail it to USCIS with supporting documentation (including an OPT issued by ISSS) to apply for OPT. USCIS recently introduced an option to file the application online instead of by mail. ISSS currently advises you not to file your OPT/STEM OPT application online due to the risks involved. 

  What USCIS has said about online filing:

  • F-1 students applying for pre-completion, post-completion OPT can choose to file online instead of by mail.
  • Students filing online will be asked to upload the Form I-765 and all supporting documentation. 
  • Application adjudication time will be the same for paper and online applications.

  Online applications may require a biometrics appointment.

  • F-1 students applying online for OPT may need to attend a biometric services appointment before their OPT can be approved. This normally requires a separate fee and requires the student to travel to a local application support center (ASC) to attend the appointment. 
  • In a 3/31 USCIS Ombuds webinar, USCIS mentioned significant delays in biometrics appointment processing due to COVID-19. Social distancing measures at the application support centers limit the number of appointments they can take.
  • USCIS has not clearly addressed whether F-1 students applying for OPT need to attend a biometric services appointment. Please note that filing an incomplete or incorrect application (for example, by not including a biometrics fee if one is required) could result in a denial of your OPT application.    

  Our advice: don’t file online.

  ISSS currently recommends against filing online for the following reasons:

  • There is a lack of clarity about biometric services appointments, which could potentially complicate or jeopardize a student’s application.
  • Online filing is new and we have yet to see successful cases. There may be other unexpected or unpredictable challenges to filing online, whereas filing by mail is a tried and true method.
• I already filed my OPT/STEM OPT application online. What should I do?

  If you already filed online and need assistance in applying again via mail, please contact the advisor who issued your OPT/STEM OPT I-20 for guidance on how to proceed. Do not try to re-file on your own.

• I need to apply for OPT. May I apply remotely from elsewhere in the U.S.? May I apply from outside the U.S.?

  You must be physically present in the United States at the time you submit your Optional Practical Training (OPT) application. If you're in your home country and have questions about how this will affect your ability to apply for OPT, then please contact us to discuss your case. 

  ISSS will continue to process OPT applications via myIO. We strongly encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.

• I’m applying for Post Completion OPT based off my Spring 2021 graduation date. Do I need to have an in-person course?

  Due to COVID-19, SEVP has granted a temporary accommodation allowing continuing students in F-1 status to enroll in the courses that best meet their academic needs. This means that you can take all online classes and still be eligible to apply for OPT.

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FAQs for Student on Post Completion OPT/STEM OPT Extension

• I'm on OPT and I'm now working remotely due to COVID-19. Do I need to update my SEVP Portal?

  No, it is not necessary to update your site of employment in the SEVP Portal or to update your I-983 (for those on STEM OPT) for remote work due to COVID-19.

• I've lost my job due to COVID-19. Will this count against my unemployment days?

  The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has not issued a statement concerning changes to the normal unemployment limits. We advise all students to stay within 90 days of unemployment to maintain their F-1 status and OPT. Prior to reaching 90 days of unemployment, students on OPT are required to depart the United States or make other plans to maintain their status.

• I'm on OPT and still working, but my hours have been cut below 20 hours per week. Will this count against my unemployment days?

  No, this will not count as unemployment. SEVP is making a temporary exception for anyone still working, but working less than 20 hours per week because of the COVID-19 crisis.

• I applied for OPT and my receipt notice is delayed. What do I need to know?

  USCIS is currently experiencing delays in issuing receipt notices for OPT and STEM OPT applications. It may take 4-6 weeks to receive your receipt notice. USCIS has acknowledged these delays and they are extending some flexibility to students whose OPT or STEM OPT applications were received between October 1, 2020 and May 21, 2021.

  Eligibility to remain in the U.S.:

  You can remain in the U.S. and await your receipt notice if you have proof that USCIS has received your application. Examples of proof: you have confirmation that your application was delivered (e.g., through online express mail tracking) or confirmation that your I-765 fee has been processed.

  OPT approved for less than 12 months:

  Per F-1 regulations, students whose OPT is approved after the end of their 60-day grace period get less than 12 months of OPT. USCIS has temporarily* agreed to approve OPT applications for a full 12 months in these cases. This prevents students from losing time on OPT due to USCIS delays. If your OPT is approved for significantly less than 12 months, you can request a corrected EAD. To do this, you will need to follow USCIS’s instructions, and this includes sending your original EAD back to USCIS. It can take 1-2 months for USCIS to then issue you a corrected EAD (possibly longer due to COVID delays). You will not be able to travel internationally, go through a hiring process, or apply for an SSN or driver’s license while you are without your original EAD, so we strongly recommend that you first use your EAD for any of required purposes BEFORE sending it to USCIS for a correction.

  Applying again after a rejection:

  Per F-1 regulations, students whose OPT applications are rejected after the end of their 60-day grace period are normally ineligible to reapply. USCIS is temporarily* allowing students to refile after their grace period ends as long as their first (rejected) application was filed on time. If your application was rejected, it is critical that you contact us before applying again. A “rejection” is different from a “denial”; if your application is rejected, your entire application packet will be returned to you with a rejection notice. If your application is denied after your 60-day grace period ends, you will not be eligible to reapply.

  *For OPT applications received by USCIS on or after 10/01/2020 through 05/21/2021, inclusive.

• I applied for STEM OPT and my receipt notice is delayed. What do I need to know?

  Eligibility to remain and work in the U.S.:

  F-1 students who file a STEM OPT application with USCIS prior to the expiration of their 12-month OPT EAD are eligible to remain in the U.S. and work for up to 180 days past the 12-month OPT EAD end date while the STEM OPT application is pending. You may wish to show your employer proof that your STEM OPT application was delivered to USCIS, in addition to your 12-month OPT EAD and your STEM OPT I-20, as evidence of your continued employment eligibility.

  Applying again after a rejection:

  Students whose STEM OPT applications are rejected after the end of their 12-month OPT period are normally ineligible to reapply. USCIS is temporarily* allowing students to reapply after their OPT EAD expires as long as their first (rejected) application was filed on time. If your application was rejected, it is critical that you contact us before applying again. A “rejection” is different from a “denial”; if your application is rejected, your entire application packet will be returned to you with a rejection notice. If your application is denied after your 12-month OPT ends, you will not be eligible to reapply.

  *For STEM OPT applications received by USCIS on or after 10/01/2020 through 05/21/2021, inclusive.

• I’m worried that USCIS did not receive my OPT/STEM OPT application. Should I send a second application to USCIS?

  We advise against sending in a second OPT/STEM OPT application as this could cause severe complications and/or further delays for your application. Instead, we recommend that you continue to wait for your receipt notice and keep proof that your application was delivered to USCIS. Please note that sending in a second application without consulting our office first could lead to a denial of your OPT/STEM OPT application.

  If your receipt notice is taking longer than USCIS says it should, you can try the following options.

  1. Contact USCIS.
  2. Contact the lockbox where you sent your application.
  3. Contact the CIS Ombudsman’s Office for case assistance (you should only do this your receipt notice is significantly delayed and USCIS was unable to assist you).

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FAQs for International Scholars, Faculty, and Staff

Current Scholars, Faculty, and Staff

• My H-1B petition is pending with U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services. Will it be impacted by the Presidential Proclamation?

  No. The June 22, 2020 Presidential Proclamation and the subsequent extension does not limit individuals from changing their status to H-1B within the United States. However, through March 31, 2021, your ability to leave the U.S. and apply for an H-1B visa for reentering the country will be limited.

• I am working at UT with a TN/O-1/ E-3 visa. Is it impacted by the Presidential Proclamation?

  No. The June 22, 2020 Presidential Proclamation does not apply to these visa types.

• I am a UT visiting scholar or employee currently outside of the U.S. and I cannot re- enter to continue my program. What can I do?

  The current COVID-19 situation is rapidly evolving and unpredictable. It remains unclear how long the travel bans or other global travel restrictions may remain in effect for re-entry to the U.S. and how your entry could be impacted. Reach out to your department to determine if there are ways to continue your work remotely from your home country. If this is not a possibility, contact us, so that we can work with you to determine the best path forward for your specific situation.

• I am a J-1 exchange visitor and need a travel signature on my DS-2019. How do I get one?

  Please contact us to request a travel signature on your DS-2019. Please keep in mind that with the current global travel restrictions and global pandemic, we strongly encourage you to postpone any non-essential international travel.

• I am a J-1 exchange visitor. What should I do if I want to end my program early and depart the United States?

  Please coordinate any early departure with your department. If you depart the country more than 15 days before your DS-2019 end date and you do not intend to return to the U.S. for the remainder of your J program, contact us so your DS-2019 end date can be updated accordingly.

• I planned to end my time at UT Austin and go home, but now I can’t because of travel restrictions and flight availability. What should I do?

  Contact your home country embassy or consulate in the U.S. to let them know your situation. You may use the website here to find foreign consulates in the U.S.

  Also, please work with your department to determine if you can temporarily extend your appointment. If it can be extended, your department will work with you and ISSS to extend your DS-2019. If an extension is not possible, we will recommend that you contact an immigration attorney about the best path to extend your stay in the U.S.

• I am a J-1 exchange visitor in the Short-Term Scholar category that is valid for only 6 months, but I need more time. What do I do?

  Please contact ISSS to discuss your situation. If the situation is beyond our area of expertise we will recommend that you contact an immigration attorney about the best path to extend your stay in the U.S.

New Incoming Scholars, Faculty, and Staff

• I am a new faculty member/ researcher joining UT Austin. I am currently in the U.S. in another visa status. Will I be able to change my status to H-1B?

  The June 22, 2020 Presidential Proclamation and the subsequent extension does not limit individuals from changing their status to H-1B within the United States. However, through March 31, 2021, you will be limited in your ability to leave the country and apply for an H-1B visa for reentering the United States. Please work closely with your department and ISSS about any questions you have about your H-1B petition process.

• I am a new faculty member/ researcher joining UT Austin. I am currently in the U.S. on an H-1B from another institution. Will I be eligible to transfer my H-1B to UT Austin?

  Yes. The June 22, 2020 Presidential Proclamation and the subsequent extension does not limit individuals from transferring or extending their H-1B within the United States. Please work closely with your department and ISSS about any questions you have about your H-1B petition process.

• I am a new faculty member joining UT Austin. I am currently outside of the United States. Will I be able to get my H-1B from UT Austin?

  Due to the June 22, 2020 Presidential Proclamation and the subsequent extension  issuance of new H-1B visas is limited until March 31, 2021. Please work with your department and ISSS to explore potential visa alternatives.

• I am a new J-1 exchange visitor currently outside of the U.S. Will the presidential proclamation impact my program?

  No. The June 22, 2020 Presidential Proclamation and the subsequent extension does not pertain to J-1 exchange visitors in the categories that are sponsored by UT Austin (professor, research scholar, short-term scholar, specialist, and student).  However, obtaining a J visa from a U.S. consular post may be more limited currently.

• I am a new J-1 visiting scholar or employee currently outside of the U.S. and I can't enter to start my program. What can I do?

  The current COVID-19 situation is rapidly evolving and unpredictable. It is unclear how long the travel bans or other global travel restrictions may remain in effect for re-entry to the U.S. and how your entry could be impacted. We will work with our J-1 scholars on a case-by-case basis to determine the best path forward. If your start date and documents should be adjusted, please consult with your department, and contact us if there will be any changes to your program dates.

  Once you have been able to secure travel arrangements to enter the U.S., please consult your department about your ability to be physically present on campus.

  UT Austin follows the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of State.

  Get tested 3-5 days after travel AND stay home for 7 days after travel. Even if you test negative, stay home for the full 7 days. If your test is positive, isolate yourself to protect others from getting infected.

  If you don’t get tested, it’s safest to stay home for 10 days after travel. Avoid being around people who are at increased risk for severe illness for 14 days, whether you get tested or not.

  Always follow state and local recommendations or requirements related to travel.

• My department has just requested my DS-2019. Is there anything I should do now?

  Yes. You will receive and email prompting you to log into myIO. Please complete all required forms in myIO to complete the DS-2019 request. Given the current travel bans, visa appointment availability, and campus closures, please discuss with your department a practicable arrival date.

• What is the earliest I will be able to come to the UT campus to begin my J-1 program?

  The current COVID-19 situation is rapidly evolving and unpredictable. It's unclear how long the travel bans or other global travel restrictions may remain in effect. ISSS continues to issue DS-2019s for future start dates. Please discuss with your department a practicable future start date.

• I already received my J visa stamp from a U.S. consulate, but I cannot enter as previously planned. Will I now have to apply for a new one?

  No. If you have your J-1 visa stamp, please check the validity date. In most cases you will not need to re-apply to a U.S. embassy or consulate, even though your arrival date will change. You will use the combination of your J-1 visa stamp and your DS-2019 with updated dates to enter the U.S.

• I just recently arrived in the U.S. with my new J-1 status. What should I do now?

  Please complete the "J-1 Scholar Arrival Notification" and "J-1 Scholar Arrival Form" in myIO and contact us to schedule a virtual check-in. UT Austin follows the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of State.

  Get tested 3-5 days after travel AND stay home for 7 days after travel. Even if you test negative, stay home for the full 7 days. If your test is positive, isolate yourself to protect others from getting infected.

  If you don’t get tested, it’s safest to stay home for 10 days after travel. Avoid being around people who are at increased risk for severe illness for 14 days, whether you get tested or not.

  Before coming to campus, review UT’s latest safety protocol and guidelines.

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FAQs for Departments

• I want to hire an international researcher or tenure-track faculty member. However, my candidate/prospective employee is currently outside the U.S. and may unable to arrive in time for the start of the semester. Can this individual work from abroad?

  New international faculty/researchers who are unable to enter the US and need to begin employment in their home country are not prevented from doing so from an immigration standpoint. However, complexities lie in the hiring and payment of individuals living abroad as each country has distinct labor and tax laws. Individuals hired from abroad will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, Please contact Payroll Services with cc: to Texas Global for further information.

• I would like to invite a J-1 international visiting scholar to campus. In light of the presidential proclamation limiting the entry of J-1 exchange visitors, is this still an option for our department?

  The presidential proclamation of June 22, 2020 does not pertain to J-1 exchange visitors in the categories that are sponsored by UT Austin (professor, research scholar, short-term scholar, specialist, and student). Please initiate your J-1 scholar request at least 2-3 months prior to the scholar’s start date at UT. 

  Note that due to the COVID-19 pandemic visa issuance services may be delayed or not available in certain countries. They situation is dynamic and quickly changing. Please check the U.S. Department of State's visa page for announcements and updates in order to stay informed about the resumption of consular services and visa processing times. Additionally, the federal administration has placed entry restrictions for those who are traveling from certain countries. These factors might affect whether your scholar will be able to arrive by the anticipated start date. Stay in close contact with ISSS to assess your scholar’s situation. 

• I would like to hire an international researcher or tenure-track faculty member who is currently in the U.S. The individual currently has authorization to work but will need to change status to H-1B. Can we still sponsor a change of status to H-1B?

  The June 22, 2020 Presidential Proclamation and its subsequent extension does not limit individuals from changing their status to H-1B within the United States. However, through March 31, 2021, they would not be able to leave the U.S. and apply for an H-1B visa for reentering the United States. Individuals in H-1B status who do not currently have a valid H-1B visa stamp in their passport should not travel internationally while the proclamation is in effect. 

• I would like to hire an international researcher or tenure-track faculty member who is currently living abroad. In light of the presidential proclamation, can we hire the individual in H-1B status?

  Many of our international tenure and tenure-track professors are employed and enter the U.S. on an H-1B visa. Departments should consult with Texas Global to explore possibilities for future new hires.

• I want to hire a new international graduate student as a teaching assistant/research assistant. The individual will not be able to enter the United States in time for the spring semester; however, he/she can perform the work from abroad. What should I do?

  Unfortunately, new students who have not worked for UT Austin before will not be able to begin jobs in the spring semester if they are studying from outside the U.S. We recommend departments see if other sources of funding are available.

• With more remote-learning class options available in the spring, what modes of instruction are permitted for international students who are in Austin?

  SEVP has extended the exemption from the in-person course requirement to the Spring 2021 semester. Continuing F-1/ J-1 students will be able to take as many online courses as appropriate for their academic program. They will need to enroll full-time in order to maintain F-1 or J-1 status.  New students coming to the US will need to enroll in at least one face-to-face or hybrid course and will need to enroll full-time in order to maintain F-1/ J-1 status.

• Are new international students who are not able to arrive in Austin in time for the start of the semester allowed to begin their program of study by taking online classes from abroad?

  Yes, new students may enroll in online classes if they do not plan to arrive in Austin for the start of the semester. ISSS will need to work with these students to adjust their immigration documents according to their plans.

• I have new international students scheduled to receive a fellowship. They will be taking classes online, but will not be able to enter the U.S. Can we still provide them fellowship money?

  The tuition portion of a fellowship can be paid since it applies directly to the student’s tuition bill.The class modality does not impact this.If the fellowship includes money being paid directly to the student, then you will not be able to pay it.FRMS requires information about the student’s F-1 or J-1 visa and that the student has either a U.S. address or U.S. bank account in order to pay out.If the fellowship is from another unit (like the Graduate School), work with that unit regarding any need to defer a fellowship.

• If we have offered a fellowship to a new international student who is not able to enter the U.S., can we offer that fellowship to another student instead?

  If the student has decided not to defer but to decline admission and not come to UT, then consult with whoever is providing the fellowship for whether it can be reallocated to another student. If the student is deferring or arriving late in the semester, that money has already been promised to that student and cannot be reallocated to someone else.

• How do we defer a fellowship for an international student who has deferred admission?

  The Graduate Coordinator should contact the unit that is funding the fellowship to request the deferral.

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Presidential Proclamations 

• Proclamation Ending Discriminatory Bans on Entry to the United States

  On Jan. 20, 2021, President Biden issued the Proclamation Ending Discriminatory Bans on Entry to the United States rescinding former President Trump's executive order that prohibited travel for citizens of Iran, Libya, Syria, Yemen, and North Korea to the United States. Previously, only students and scholars from those countries were permitted to enter the country. Now, all citizens may apply for visas to visit the United States. 

• Proclamation Concerning COVID-19 Travel Restrictions

  On Jan. 18, 2021, President Trump rescinded restrictions on entry of non-U.S. citizens and permanent residents traveling from Brazil, the Schengen area, United Kingdom, and Ireland. The restrictions expire on Jan. 26, 2021. Entry bans on non-U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have recently been in China or Iran remain in place. 

• Proclamation Concerning H-1B and J-1 Visas

  On June 22, 2020, President Trump signed a new executive order limiting visa issuance and entry of scholars in H-1B status into the United States. This Proclamation is effective at 12:01am EDT June 24, 2020 and expires March 31, 2021. 

  The Proclamation suspends the issuance of H-1B visas and applies to individuals who, on the effective date of the Proclamation, are:

  • outside the United States, and 
  • do not hold a valid H-1B visa.

  Scholars who are currently residing in the United States in H-1B status (or are outside the U.S. with a valid visa) are not affected.

  Although the proclamation mentions J-1 visa holders, it does not apply to J-1 exchange visitors in the categories that are sponsored at UT Austin (professor, research scholar, short-term scholar, specialist, and student).

• Proclamation Affecting Chinese Students and Scholars

  On May 29, 2020, the President issued Proclamation on the Suspension of Entry as Nonimmigrants of Certain Students and Researchers from the People’s Republic of China. The order affects Chinese nationals who have ties to an entity in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) that implements or supports the PRC's Military-Civil Fusion (MCF) strategy.

  Individuals impacted by the order include: 

  • New graduate students and researchers who have not applied for a visa; 
  • Any current graduate student or researcher not present in the United States, including those who have a valid F-1 or J-1 visa.  

  The order does not affect: 

  • Undergraduate students; 
  • Graduate students and researchers currently present in the United States.  

  There are still many unknowns that we do not have sufficient information on yet. Texas Global is closely monitoring the situation and will update this website once additional information becomes available. 

  The order also directs the Secretary of State to determine whether to cancel visas of graduate students and researchers present in the United States and who have ties to entities that support the MCF strategy. The cancellation of a visa generally does not mean that the individual must depart the US. However, those who have a canceled visa and leave the country would no longer be able to reenter in F or J status.  

  • No official list of Chinese universities has been released. 
  • We don't have any indication yet as to how the order will affect the visa application process.
  • We also don't know how Customs and Border Protection will screen students and scholars at the US port-of-entry.  

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DHS Proposed Rule Regarding Duration of Status

On Friday, September 25, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released a proposed rule to update immigration regulations for F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors. The main focus of the proposed rule would:

• eliminate the "duration of status" benefit;
• require a specific date by which an individual would need to depart the United States; and
• require students and scholars to apply for an Extension of Stay from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) should additional time be needed to complete academic program requirements.

We understand the impact this rule would have on our international population. At this stage the rule is only being proposed by DHS and is subject to a 30-day public comment period which ends on October 26. Generally, comments by institutions, advocacy organizations, and individuals are taken into consideration and incorporated into what will eventually become a final rule. Because the rule could still change, we do not know what requirements the final rule will include nor when an effective date will be determined.

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General Information

Travel

• Do I need a negative COVID-19 test to enter the U.S.?

  Effective Jan. 26, 2021, all air passengers entering the U.S. are required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than three days before boarding their flight. Visit the CDC website for more information.

• If I leave the U.S. now will I be able to reenter the country at a later date?

  The current global situation is fluid. It is difficult to predict whether further restrictions will be put in place by the U.S. government for travelers from high-risk countries, whether current restrictions will be removed, or if international travel to the U.S. will be restricted due to the situation within the U.S.

  You will need to continue to check the travel and visa restrictions that may be in place at the time you are planning to travel to the U.S. We recommend that you monitor the travel updates by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) as well as resources from your own country’s governmental agencies.

  Texas Global is carefully monitoring updates from the CDC, SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program), USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services), and Department of State, and will update this website as we receive new information.

• Can I apply for a U.S. visa?

  The global COVID-19 situation is dynamic and quickly changing. Please check the U.S. Department of State's visa page for announcements and updates in order to stay informed about the resumption of consular services and visa processing times. Texas Global is closely monitoring the situation and will update this page if new information becomes available. You may also wish to check the website of the U.S. embassy or consulate nearest to you for any other updates.

• How can I get a Travel Signature?

  Please log into myIO and request a travel signature through F-1 Student Services > I-20 Travel Signature Request or J-1 Student Services > DS-2019 Travel Signature Request. 

• Can I use an I-20 with an electronic signature from an international student advisor for international travel and to apply for a visa?

  Yes, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) coordinated with both the Department of State and Customs and Border Protection to allow electronic issuance and signing of Forms I-20 for the duration of the COVID-19 emergency. Both agencies are in support of this action.  

• I am currently in my home country. Will I need to self-quarantine when I return to Texas for the spring semester?

  UT Austin follows the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of State.

  Get tested 3-5 days after travel AND stay home for 7 days after travel. Even if you test negative, stay home for the full 7 days. If your test is positive, isolate
  yourself to protect others from getting infected.

  If you don’t get tested, it’s safest to stay home for 10 days after travel. Avoid being around people who are at increased risk for severe illness for 14 days, whether you get tested or not.

  Always follow state and local recommendations or requirements related to travel.

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Taxes

• Is ISSS providing tax assistance this year?

  ISSS provides access to a Glacier Tax Prep, a software that will assist you with non-resident tax filing. We are not able to provide individual tax advising, but can answer your questions at intltax@austin.utexas.edu.

  Support Services will hold a Tax Information Session via Zoom on Feb. 16, 2021, at 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.  Register to attend.

• I have received a stimulus payment check/direct deposit from the U.S. government. I don't know if I am actually eligible. May I keep the money?

  Under the CARES Act, Congress has provided for a one-time, $1,200 payment to “eligible individuals” who meet certain income thresholds. A second payment of $600 was provided in December 2020. However, nonresident aliens are specifically excluded from the definition of “eligible individuals” under the Act; therefore, a nonresident alien will not receive a payment under the CARES Act. This means that most international students are not eligible to receive these funds.

  You may have received these funds 1) in error; 2) because you filed the incorrect tax paperwork when submitting your 2018 or 2019 tax return; or 3) because you are considered a resident alien for tax purposes as you have been in the U.S. for a sufficiently long period of time. 

  If you have received the finds in error either through your error or an IRS error, please do not keep the funds and return them to IRS. If you have received the stimulus payment because you complete the wrong tax return forms, please reach out to the tax assistant for guidance on how to file the correct forms. 

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General Support for International Students and Scholars

• Career Support

  Texas Career Engagement Center now offers a new service designed specifically for international students. Interstride provides a one-stop shop for international students, including visa and immigration information; companies that sponsor employment visas; guidance on intercultural networking; job listings, real-time hiring trends, and employer information; and tailored assessment tests.

• Food Assistance

  The UT Outpost is an on campus food pantry that can help students who are experiencing food insecurity. In response to COVID-19 they are providing contactless pick up of pre-packaged items to students in need.

• Report a Bias, Harassment or Discrimination Incident

  Bias incidents are offenses against individuals or groups that are motivated by perceived identity such as age, citizenship, national origin, gender, and gender expression. Examples of bias incidents include verbal harassment, hateful written comments, and derogatory graffiti.

  If you observed or have personally experienced a bias incident, we urge you to report the details. Please refer to this list of offices that can receive your report. If you encounter a situation that requires immediate police, medical, psychological, or other emergency service, you should always call 911 first. 

  We all belong to the UT family and we want to make sure that everyone in the community is welcomed and respected.

• Health and Wellness

  Stay safe and well during the pandemic. 

  Protect Texas Together website is your one stop resource for all policies and resources for Covid-19. If you are physically coming to campus, be sure to download the Protect Texas Together phone app to obtain your daily campus pass.

  University Health Services is your on-campus wellness resource. In addition to their regular services they currently provide tele-appointments as well as COVID-19 screening and testing. 

  It is important to stay healthy both physically as well as in the mind and spirit. The Counseling and Mental Health Center continues to provide services to all international students. Telehealth appointments as well as virtual drop-in groups are available.

  All enrolled international students are automatically enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) which provides very comprehensive coverage for any COVID-19 related expenses.

• Connect with other Longhorns

  Longhorn Connection brings UT Austin students together with their friends, peers, and campus community, no matter how far from the Forty Acres they are. Longhorns are stronger when we connect with each other. Use this website as a resource to engage with your community, prioritize your wellness, and enjoy creativity through virtual events and various activities.

  ISSS has also planned a number of engaging virtual events for you.  Keep up to date with upcoming events on our website. Finally, follow Texas Global ISSS on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and  join the International Student Facebook Group to connect with international longhorns around the world.

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