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

• COVID-19 Vaccination Required to Enter U.S.
• Travel FAQs
• 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
  • Taxes
  • General Support Information
  • ISSS Processing Times

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Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination Required to Enter U.S.

Beginning Nov. 8, 2021, all passengers entering the United States by air must show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to board their flight into the country. The list of approved vaccines, the types of acceptable proof, and the definition of “fully vaccinated” can be found on the CDC website.

Additionally, non-citizen travelers who are fully vaccinated will be permitted to enter the United States via land for non-essential travel, such as tourism, starting on November 8, 2021. Non-citizen travelers must present proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and verbally attest to their non-essential travel and COVID-19 vaccination status. At this time, individuals engaged in essential travel, such as for work and study, are not required to be vaccinated if entering by land.

Beginning January 2022, all foreign travelers entering the United States, whether for essential or non-essential travel, must be fully vaccinated and provide proof of vaccination.

Proof of Negative COVID-19 Test

Additionally, 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 one day 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. Please review the CDC website for specific details.

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.

There is not a COVID-19 testing requirement for travelers entering the United States at land border ports of entry.

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Travel FAQs

• Do I need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the U.S.?

  Yes. Effective Nov. 8, 2021, all passengers entering the United States by air must show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to board their flight into the country. The list of approved vaccines, the types of acceptable proof, and the definition of “fully vaccinated” can be found on the CDC website.

  Additionally, effective Nov. 8, 2021, non-citizen travelers entering the United States by land for non-essential travel, such as tourism, must present proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and verbally attest to their non-essential travel and COVID-19 vaccination status. At this time, individuals engaged in essential travel, such as for work and study, are not required to be vaccinated.

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

  All air passengers entering the U.S. are required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than one day before boarding their flight. Visit the CDC website for more information.

  There is not a COVID-19 testing requirement for travelers entering the United States at land border ports of entry.

• Are there any current restrictions on travel to the U.S.?

  Restriction on direct travel to the U.S. from certain southern African countries

   

  On Dec. 28, 2021, President Joseph Biden revoked the below proclamation. The revocation goes into effect 12:01 a.m. eastern standard time on Dec. 31, 2021. Noncitizens traveling from the countries listed below before this time and date are still subject to the entry restrictions specified here. 

   

  On Nov. 26, 2021, President Joseph Biden issued a presidential proclamation intended to prevent the spread of the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Effective Nov. 29, 2021, the proclamation restricts entry into the U.S., as immigrants or nonimmigrants, of noncitizens of the United States who were physically present in one of the countries listed below during the 14-day period preceding their entry or attempted entry into the U.S.:

  • the Republic of Botswana
  • the Kingdom of Eswatini
  • the Kingdom of Lesotho
  • the Republic of Malawi
  • the Republic of Mozambique
  • the Republic of Namibia
  • the Republic of South Africa
  • the Republic of Zimbabwe

  The proclamation does not apply to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, certain direct relatives of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, and certain other classes of travelers. The full list of exceptions can be viewed in the proclamation.

  A summary of this travel restriction can be found here (Department of State). The full text of the proclamation can be found here (White House).

  While previous geographic restrictions were accompanied by National Interest Exceptions (NIEs) allowing entry for specific categories of travelers, including certain international students and scholars, there has been no news of an NIE for the current travel restriction affecting southern Africa. We will update this page if an NIE is announced.

  COVID-19 Vaccination and Test Requirements

  Effective Nov. 8, 2021, all travelers entering the U.S. must show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Additionally, all travelers must obtain a negative COVID-19 test no more than one day prior to their flight.

  Additionally, effective Nov. 8, 2021, non-citizen travelers entering the United States by land for non-essential travel, such as tourism, must present proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and verbally attest to their non-essential travel and COVID-19 vaccination status. At this time, individuals engaged in essential travel, such as for work and study, are not required to be vaccinated.

  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. We recommend that you 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. You should also 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 U.S. Department of State. We will update this website as we receive new 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.

  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.

• I am a current student and need a new travel signature on my I-20/DS-2019. How do I get one?

  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 U.S. Department of State and U.S. Customs and Border Protection to allow electronic issuance and signing of Forms I-20. 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 fall?

  UT Austin follows the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention which offers different guidelines for vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals.

  Please review the COVID-19 Pre-Departure and Arrival Expectations for International Travelers. These expectations were created to prioritize your health, along with the health of our campus community.

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FAQs for New International Students

• What are UT's plans for Spring 2022? How will UT's plans affect my ability to study in the U.S.?

  UT will continue to offer mostly in-person classes in Spring 2022. In April 2021, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) confirmed that the current immigration guidance in response to the COVID-19 crisis will remain in effect for the 2021-2022 academic year. According to this guidance, 100% online enrollment is not permitted for the following students, who are considered “new” students for immigration purposes:

  • Newly admitted F-1 and J-1 students entering the U.S. to begin their studies.
  • F-1/J-1 students who have already begun their studies remotely from abroad and who are entering the U.S. for the first time.
  • F-1/J-1 students returning to the U.S. after a gap in their studies (for example, students who took a leave of absence for one semester).  

  All new students must enroll full-time and in at least one hybrid or in-person class. Enrolling in 100% online classes as a new student in the U.S. is a violation of your student visa status and will result in immigration problems.

• I began my studies at UT from outside the U.S. What should I do to prepare to enter the U.S. for my first semester?

  Make sure that you have an updated I-20 or DS-2019 that lists a Spring 2022 start date. If you do not have a valid F-1 or J-1 student visa, you will need to apply for one. You may enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the program start date listed on your I-20 or DS-2019. You will need the documents listed here to enter the U.S. Once you arrive, complete the Arrival Check-In in myIO immediately. 

• I have been admitted to UT. I do not know whether I will be able to arrive at UT Austin to begin the Spring 2022 semester. What should I do?

  • You may be able to begin your studies online and spend your first semester outside of the United States if you can find online classes to enroll in. You can 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. 

  • You may choose to 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. In order to enter the United States, you must not plan to enroll in 100% online classes. Doing this without consulting ISSS may result in immigration problems.

• 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.

  Beginning Nov. 8, 2021, all passengers entering the United States by air must show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to board their flight into the country. The list of approved vaccines, the types of acceptable proof, and the definition of “fully vaccinated” can be found on the CDC website. Additionally, all students flying to the U.S. must obtain a negative COVID-19 test no more than 3 days prior to their flight.

  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.

• 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 which offers different guidelines for vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals.

  Please review the COVID-19 Pre-Departure and Arrival Expectations for International Travelers. These expectations were created to prioritize your health, along with the health of our campus community.

• 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 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 2022 course instruction impact my immigration status?

  If you have started your UT Austin program of study but have not yet been in the U.S. in F-1/J-1 status, you are considered a “new” student for immigration purposes. If you are returning to UT Austin after a gap in your studies, you are also considered a “new” student. Please see the “FAQs for New International Students” section above.

  UT will continue to offer mainly in-person classes in Spring 2022. All F-1 and J-1 students must enroll full-time to maintain their status. In April 2021, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) confirmed that the current immigration guidance in response to the COVID-19 crisis will remain in effect for the 2021-2022 academic year. According to this guidance, continuing students in active F-1 status can maintain their immigration status by enrolling in online classes or in a combination of online, hybrid, and in-person classes.

• I am currently outside of the U.S. and cannot return to UT in Spring 2022. Can I take all of my classes online?

  If you have started your UT Austin program of study but have not yet been in the U.S. in F-1/J-1 status, you are considered a “new” student for immigration purposes. If you are returning to UT Austin after a gap in your studies, you are also considered a “new” student. Please see the “FAQs for New International Students” section above.

  All F-1 and J-1 students must enroll full-time to maintain their status. On April 26, 2021, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) confirmed that the current immigration guidance in response to the COVID-19 crisis will remain in effect for the 2021-2022 academic year. According to this guidance, continuing students in active F-1 status can maintain their immigration status by enrolling in online classes or in a combination of online, hybrid, and in-person classes. Continuing students outside the U.S. with an active F-1 I-20 can enroll in online classes and maintain their valid immigration status.

• Do I need a new I-20 for the Fall 2022 semester? When and how will I receive it?

  If you currently have a valid I-20 with a travel signature on page 2 that will be no more than 12 months old on your date of re-entry into the U.S., 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 have an academic appointment (TA/GRA/AI). Can I hold it while being away from campus?

  Employment for UT may not be conducted from abroad, regardless of your immigration status. 

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 (or STEM OPT) application online

  USCIS recently introduced an online option to file the I-765 application for OPT/STEM OPT.  

  CAUTION: If you choose to file your I-765 application online, you must first receive an OPT/STEM OPT I-20 from ISSS, showing an OPT/STEM OPT recommendation on page 2, before beginning the online filing process. The OPT/STEM OPT I-20 is an essential part of the application; without it, your application will be denied.

  What to Know about E-filing:

  • The traditional way to file the I-765 application is by mailing your paper documents to USCIS. This method has a very high approval rate.
  • Processing time for both mailed and e-filed applications is the same, but e-filed applications will reach USCIS sooner. The last step of filing online is making the payment to USCIS; once you do that, your application will be submitted.
  • See the USCIS e-filing website for more information.

  E-filing Advantages

  • Unlike the paper form, the e-form will require you to complete all required fields and pay the correct fee amount. This could mean a reduced risk of application rejection due to incomplete information or incorrect payments.
  • There is no risk of your application being lost or delayed in the mail.
  • You will receive a receipt number immediately after filing that you can use to track your case status.
  • In addition to paper notifications about your case, you will also receive online notifications directly in your USCIS account. If a paper notification is not delivered due to a mailing issue, you will still be able to see it in your USCIS account. These notifications can include receipt notices, requests for evidence, denials, and approvals. 

  E-filing Disadvantages

  • ISSS cannot advise on the e-filing process. You are free to choose this option, but please understand that if problems arise, ISSS will not be able to assist.
  • Since e-filing is relatively new, ISSS is not aware of what possible complications or problems may arise for applications filed online.
• 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.

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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.

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FAQs for International Scholars, Faculty, and Staff

Current Scholars, Faculty, and Staff

• 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 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 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 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.

• 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 visa appointment availability, 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. 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.

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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 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 

• A Proclamation on Revoking Proclamation 10315

  On Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2021 President Joseph Biden issued a proclamation revoking Proclamation 10315 that prohibited entry into the United States of non-U.S. citizens who were physically present within certain countries in southern Africa during the 14-day period preceding their entry or attempted entry into the United States. 

  Beginning 12:01 a.m. eastern standard time on Dec. 31, 2021 non-U.S. citizens traveling from southern African countries will be eligible for entry into the United States if they meet the current COVID-19 vaccination and negative test requirements and are otherwise eligible for entry. See "Travel FAQs" above for further information. 

• Proclamation on Advancing the Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-⁠19 Pandemic

  On Oct. 25, 2021, President Joseph Biden issued a proclamation specifying that proof of COVID-19 vaccination is now mandatory for travelers flying into the U.S. from abroad.  

  The proclamation will go into effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Standard Time on Nov. 8, 2021.   

  Key points of the proclamation: 

  • COVID-19-related restrictions applying to air travel to the U.S. from specific countries have been lifted. 

  • Air travelers to the U.S. must now show proof of vaccination to board their flight to the U.S. 

  • This requirement applies in addition to the existing requirement to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test within three days of the flight. 

• 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 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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General Information

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Taxes

• Is ISSS providing tax assistance this year?

  ISSS provides access to 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.

• 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.

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ISSS Processing Times

• Email Inquiries

  The current response time for general email inquiries is three business days (not including weekends). Rest assured that an ISSS advisor will respond to your inquiry.

• CPT Authorizations
  • Please allow for 10 business days (not including weekends) for your CPT I-20 to be issued.
  • We will review your request and issue your CPT I-20 no later than one business day before your employment is expected to begin.
• OPT Requests
  • Please allow for 10 business days (not including weekends) for your OPT I-20 to be issued. 
  • We will provide you with instructions on how to compile and mail your application to USCIS.
• STEM OPT Requests
  • Please allow for 10 business days (not including weekends) for your STEM OPT I-20 to be issued.
  • We will send your STEM OPT I-20 at least two weeks prior to your current OPT expiration and provide you with instructions on how to compile and mail your application to USCIS.
  • As long as USCIS receives your application before your current OPT expires, you may continue to work for 180 days while the application is pending.
• Initial I-20s
  • We are sensitive to the needs of new students to schedule a visa appointment. We are processing documents as quickly as possible to ensure you have the information required to schedule an appointment with your local U.S. consulate.
  • Check the notifications on your myIO Home Page to determine if we need further information from you.
  • Once you have completed all the required processes in myIO, please allow 1-3 weeks for the issuance of your I-20. To expedite the process, we will send you a digital I-20 via secure email. 

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