In tomorrow's community conference call, one of the community members has raised the issue whether receiving certain kinds of State benefits becomes an issue for immigration. The concern is well-founded in that receiving public (Federal or State) means tested (that depend upon the amount of income/expense) can lead to a determination that an applicant can become dependent upon government resources ("public charge").
Students in the following fields will be able to obtain STEM OPT extensions for 24 months:
Preliminary Note: The following discussion examines National Interest Waiver, other than that for foreign physicians. The nature of NIW for foreign physicians is different and requires a separate discussion.