Rice welcomes all its international students and scholars and is committed to supporting them.
This page includes immigration updates and resources that may have an impact on our Rice faculty, students, and staff.
Current Updates
Travel Ban & USCIS Processing Pause
On December 16, 2025, President Trump issued a new presidential proclamation adding several countries to the travel ban that was originally put in place in June 2025. In addition, the proclamation introduced some changes for the previously affected countries. The National Association of International Educators (NAFSA) has provided a comprehensive summary, which you may find helpful.
The Department of State has suspended visa issuance for individuals from the listed countries.
USCIS has paused processing new and pending benefit requests for individuals from the listed countries. This is not a ban on applying for immigration benefits, and eligible applicants can still submit applications, but they should expect significant delays.
H-1B Visa Updates
On December 3, 2025, the Department of State announced expanded screening and vetting for H-1B and H-4 visa applicants. This new process for expanded review of online presence is in line with the screening already in place for F and J visa applicants.
On September 19, 2025, a presidential proclamation restricting the entry of certain H-1B workers into the United States was announced (i.e., a rule regarding a $100,000 fee).
Click here for additional USCIS guidance posted on October 20, 2025.
Update to Visa Applications
Effective September 6, 2025, the U.S. Department of State has updated its instructions for all non-immigrant visa applicants. Moving forward, applicants must schedule their visa appointments only at a U.S. consulate in their country of citizenship or residence. If the location is based on the country of residence, applicants must be able to demonstrate their residency. Citizens of countries where the U.S. government does not provide non-immigrant visa services must apply at the embassy or consulate designated by the Department of State, unless they have residency in another country. For more information and a list of the designated consular locations, see https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/adjudicating-niv-applicants-in-their-country-of-residence.html
Proposed Federal Rule Affecting Duration of Status
On August 28, 2025, the federal government published a proposed rule 90 FR 42070 that would eliminate “duration of status” (D/S) for F and J visa holders. Current rules remain in effect while the proposal is under review. OISS will send out additional information and guidance once a final rule is made available.
OISS Communications
For prior OISS-Announce messages regarding immigration updates, please see https://oiss.rice.edu/communications (Rice login required).
Executive Actions from the Current Administration
Executive and Regulatory Actions Under the Second Trump Administration (NAFSA)