This note affects only those few students who have filed for change of
status to H-1, beginning October 1.

Department of Homeland Security has announced that students in F-1 and J-1
status who have applied for H-1 status are considered to be maintaining
their F-1 or J-1 status up to October 1 when the H-1 becomes effective. The
H-1 petition must have been received by immigration by July 30 (the date on
the receipt notice no later than July 30) and the H-1 start date must be
October 1 (no later start date). Furthermore, the H-1 petition must have
been filed while the student was in valid F-1 or J-1 status, that is, within
the 60 day (or 30 day in case of J-1) grace period following graduation or
the end of OPT. Such students do not need to go to school and do not need a
new I-20 or DS-2019 to remain in the US. Such individuals may not work
during this period and should not leave the US. If travel is necessary, such
individuals must obtain an H-1 visa at a US Consulate before returning to
the US. The return in H-1 status can be no earlier than 10 days before the
start of the H-1 employment.

You may access the entire notice at
<http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/06jun20041800/edocket.access.gpo.go
v/2004/04-16937.htm>

Regards,

Julie Uzdavinis
International Education Advisor
The University of Texas at Arlington
Office of International Education
Box 19028
Arlington, TX  76019
(817) 272-2355 (phone)
(817) 272-5005 (fax)
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