Latest information on work visas

Monday, June 22, 2020

Dear MHC international students, faculty, staff, and alums,

The latest presidential proclamation about suspending work visas entry is deeply disturbing. We know you all have questions about how this will affect you. 

Here is what we know:

  • This suspends issuance of NEW work visas for those who are currently outside of the US.
  • Work visas are types like Hs, J (excludes university scholars), L. it does not affect existing visa holders
  • There are some exceptions for some people working in health, defense or law enforcement but it’s very unclear what that means
  • It does not affect F-1 visas
  • It does not affect OPT or STEM OPT 
  • There will be court challenges, which may prevent it from going into effect
  • If you are working with CBK Immigration, they will be reaching out to you directly and letting you know one way or the other if you will be affected
  • Takes effect at 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on June 24, 2020 and goes through December 31, 2020, with reviews every 30 days to decide if it continues.

Below are some links to the American Immigration Lawyers Association website as well as accounts of reputable immigration attorneys to keep up with the situation as it develops. Please note that Jenny and Bri are qualified to advise on F and J matters only and are not attorneys. As such, our recommendations do not constitute legal advice. If you have questions about other visa types, we recommend you consult with a qualified immigration attorney.

Bri Rhodes
Director of International Student Advising
McCulloch Center for Global Initiatives