The provision establishing the S visa in the INA was originally due to expire on September 13, 1999, but Congress had extended it until September 13, 2001. Aliens admitted through the S visa categories are designated as S-5 and S-6 nonimmigrants. Request for these visas must be filed by a state or federal law enforcement agency, and the filing agency must assume responsibility for the alien from their time of entry until their departure, or until they adjust status.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance regarding the F and M student nonimmigrant classifications, including the agency’s role in adjudicating applications for employment authorization, change of status, extension of stay, and reinstatement of status for these students and their dependents in the United States.