Welcome to Bechtel News and Updates! Here, you can find the latest guidance on executive orders, international travel, and other immigration notices for the global community. If you have any questions or concerns, connect with Bechtel regarding International student inquiries here and International scholar inquiries here.
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Updates Regarding Duration of Status (D/S) Provision for F and J Nonimmigrants
On July 17, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced changes to the “duration of status” for F and J nonimmigrants.
July 17, 2026
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Travel Guidance: Ebola - Certain African Countries
Non-U.S. citizens who have traveled to the DRC, Uganda, and/or South Sudan in the previous 21 days are prohibited from entering the United States as of May 18, 2026.
June 02, 2026
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I-94 Check-In
We are excited to welcome you to our beautiful campus. Before you arrive, we would like to share an important reminder regarding your immigration status.
May 26, 2026
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Director's Welcome Message
On behalf of the Bechtel International Center, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to Stanford University and to our vibrant global community. Whether you have traveled from near or far, you are now part of a community that is enriched and strengthened by your presence.
April 24, 2026
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Welcome to Parinaz Zartoshty, Assistant Vice Provost and Executive Director of Bechtel International Center
Announcement regarding Parinaz Zartoshty joining the team at Bechtel International Center.
February 09, 2026
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New U.S. Travel Restrictions Announced
On Dec. 16, the United States government announced an expansion of travel restrictions affecting nationals of certain countries, which may impact visa issuance and/or entry to the U.S. for some individuals.
December 18, 2025
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Social Media Vetting in U.S. Visa Applications
U.S. consulates worldwide may review visa applicants’ social media and online presence as part of the visa adjudication process. As of June 18, 2025 this practice applies to F, M, and J visa applicants and will expand to H-1B and H-4 visa applicants beginning December 15, 2025.
December 15, 2025
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Winter Break Travel
We would like to share some important updates regarding the upcoming Winter Break and recent changes to federal immigration policy.
December 08, 2025
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H-1B Visa Proclamation FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about the H-1B fee
October 07, 2025
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Update regarding $100,000 fee to H1-B visas
The fee does not apply to current visa holders or applicants
September 20, 2025
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September 20, 2025
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Third Country Visa Application
On September 6, 2025, the U.S. Department of State announced that third (3rd) country visa processing will no longer be allowed, and all visa applicants must return to their home country or country of residence to apply for visa stamps.
September 15, 2025
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Announcement of Expanded Screening and Vetting for Visa Applicants
The U.S. Department of State announced on June 18 that embassies and consulates will resume scheduling F, M, and J nonimmigrant visa applications soon and applicants should check the relevant embassy or consulate website for appointment availability.
June 20, 2025
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Travel Guidance June 5, 2025
We are sending this letter to update you on important information related to the June 4 proclamation entitled “Restricting the entry of foreign nationals to protect the United States from foreign terrorists and other national security and public safety threats.”
June 05, 2025
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Summer Travel Guidance
In this time of immigration uncertainty, we are watching developments on various fronts very closely.
June 04, 2025
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Important Notice for F-1 Students on OPT
Important Notice for F-1 Students on OPT
May 23, 2025
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Bechtel Guidance - April 7th, 2025
At a time that we know is full of concern and uncertainty for many international students, we write to assure you that the university is closely monitoring immigration and travel-related executive orders and enforcement actions by federal agencies.
April 07, 2025
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Update on Travel Guidance - March 21st, 2025
In this time of immigration uncertainty, we are watching developments on various fronts very closely. As you know, we held an information session about the new registration requirement this week.
March 21, 2025
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Travel Guidance - March 17th, 2025
This message contains some travel and visa issuance guidance for your consideration as well as information about a March 18 webinar about a new immigration registration requirement.
March 17, 2025
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Address Change Requirements - Feb 27th, 2025
On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security announced that it would “fully enforce” the requirement for foreign nationals to update their address within 10 days of an address change with the U.S. government.
February 27, 2025