Immigration Pathways from Education to Employment (Update)

International students in the U.S. often begin thinking about employment options well before graduation, but the process of moving from student status to work authorization is complex and rarely intuitive. While attorneys may have limited involvement in the initial visa application for study, they play a critical role in helping students plan and transition into employment-based visa categories.

This course equips attorneys with the tools and knowledge needed to guide students in strategizing a path toward employment in the U.S., whether through temporary (nonimmigrant) or permanent (immigrant) visa routes. We will explore the legal frameworks that support these transitions, compare options across various visa classifications, and highlight practical and strategic considerations-including those for students from oversubscribed countries.

Participants will review the most commonly used visa categories, learn how to assess a student's profile for long-term planning, and identify risks and hurdles - from SEVIS complications to consular processing delays - that can undermine a successful transition.

Learning Objectives:

1. Develop a working knowledge of both nonimmigrant and immigrant employment-based visa categories
2. Break down how to identify viable visa options tailored to a student's academic background, goals, and country of origin
3. Analyze common legal and procedural obstacles, such as dual intent issues, quota limitations, and timing conflicts, and how to help clients prepare for them