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Immigration Issues

Information about Immigration Issues

Many international students are nervous about living in the United States because of the changes made to immigration laws in the wake of the September 11 terrorist attack in 2001. These students should not worry because the changes in immigration law will only have a minor impact on most students. Most of the immigration issues that international students face in the US involve bureaucracy and red tape, not law enforcement. Despite the hysterical stories that occasionally appear in the news media, most international students in the US will not have to deal with American law enforcement. The biggest issues facing international students will involve mundane matters such as jobs.

Working in the US

Individuals who are studying in the US and want to work here will only be able to do this if the work is related to their studies. Under certain circumstances, international students will not be able to take regular jobs, or work off campus. However, federal law allows students to work at positions directly related to their studies in the US. An example of this would be a student who wanted to work as a research assistant to a professor, or take an internship in their field. Students who wish to do this will have to apply for Optional Practical Training, but there are a couple of immigration issues that come with this application.

Deportation Issues

To get the above mentioned status, a student will have to file a form with the US Citizenship & Immigration Service and get the permission of their school. In some cases, students studying for certain scientific, engineering, business and military related degrees will be able to stay in the US and work in a position related to their studies. International students that do not qualify for Optional Practical Training will not be able to legally work in the US after their studies have ceased. International students that work illegally in the US could find themselves facing deportation if caught by the authorities. Therefore it’s better not to risk facing immigration issues or deportation.

Travel in the US, Canada and Mexico

Most international students should be able to travel freely in the US, Canada and Mexico without running into any immigration issues. Students will need to have their passports and other forms of identification in their possession while they are traveling. However, it must be noted that an international student must not stay in Canada or Mexico for more than 30 days so that they can re-enter the United States. For more detailed information on visas and re-entry requirements, there are some very technical articles that can help on this site. In addition, be sure to address any questions to the embassy.

The best way to avoid immigration issues in the United States is to understand all of the requirements pertaining to your international student stay and make sure to adhere to them. This includes behaving responsibly throughout your entire length of stay. In addition, be sure to keep all documents in order and up to date.