Our Mission
The Office of International Affairs is dedicated to enhancing a vibrant international community and to fostering cross-cultural experience. We welcome, support and strengthen diversity through advocacy and holistic service. Enriching connections is our goal.
News
OIA Move Information and FAQ
The Office of International Affairs is excited to announce that we will be moving to a new campus location during the week of July 24. We are moving across the Midway to the second floor of the Press Building. While we are looking forward to this exciting change, the move will cause a temporary suspension to some OIA services. See below for details on OIA hours and services during the week of July 24.
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Announcement
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Announcement
On Tuesday, September 5, 2017, United States Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the end of the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program, which granted temporary status and benefits to certain undocumented immigrants that arrived in the United States as children.
USCIS to Resume H-1B Premium Processing for Certain Cap-Exempt Petitions
Release Date:
July 24, 2017WASHINGTON — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will resume premium processing for certain cap-exempt H-1B petitions effective immediately. The H-1B visa has an annual cap of 65,000 visas each fiscal year. Additionally, there is an annual “master’s cap” of 20,000 petitions filed for beneficiaries with a U.S. master’s degree or higher.
Premium processing will resume for petitions that may be exempt from the cap if the H-1B petitioner is:
* An institution of higher education (including UChicago);
Supreme Court Action on the Travel Ban
As you may have seen in the news, in a June 26, 2017 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court took action that will allow parts of the travel ban of section 2(c) of Executive Order 13780 to go in effect. The travel ban will not, however, be enforced against “foreign nationals who have a credible claim of a bona fide relationship with a person or entity in the United States." The Court will hear oral arguments on this matter in the fall.
Avoid Tax Scams: Know What to Expect from the IRS
OIA has just become aware that a member of our international community was recently contacted by individuals conducting a sophisticated tax scam that seems to target international students.
The scam consists of someone contacting an international student, claiming to be a representative of the IRS or other federal agency. The callers may claim that tax returns were filed erroneously and a new check needs to be sent to a different address or threaten that a student’s visa will be revoked or they will be arrested if they do not pay their taxes immediately.
Appeals Court Upholds Injunction Against Travel Ban
On May 25, 2017, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit upheld the District Court’s nationwide preliminary injunction halting the enforcement of the travel ban set forth in the executive order on immigration issued on March 6, 2017.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit is also evaluating a nationwide preliminary injunction against the executive order in a separate appeal and it is not yet known when the court will rule. However, as long as one nationwide injunction remains in place, the travel ban cannot go into effect.
Apply to be a mentor (PhD’s in the BSD, Humanities, IME, PSD, & SSD)
Was it overwhelming getting around, finding a grocery store or navigating the CTA when you first moved to Chicago? Did you find it challenging to find campus activities to engage in and meet new friends? Do you wish you had someone you could have communicated with about where to get coffee or how to use the library printing system? IMPACT, the OIA mentor program for incoming international PhD students, is now recruiting current international PhD mentors. IMPACT mentors help support incoming international PhD students in the BSD, Humanities, IME, PSD, & SSD, as they adjust to life in Chicago during their first year. More information about the program and how to apply to be a MENTOR is available on our website. Apply here! We are accepting applications until the end of the school year!
DHS Telephone Number Used in Scam to Obtain Personal Information
USCIS sent out the following fraud alert information on Wed, April 26. Please review the information carefully and contact OIA any time you have any questions about your immigration statuses or requests you receive:
FINAL Tax Reminders: Deadlines, Sprintax, and Tax Information
The IRS deadline for filing 2016 tax returns is almost here. If you are filing a 2016 tax return and haven't started yet, we recommend you start preparing your return ASAP. It will take some time to gather your required documents and create the return, so it is a good idea to allow plenty of time to complete it. Visit our website to determine your tax residency status and learn what you need to file.
Migration Stories Reading: Presented by The Creative Writing Department on April 13, 2017
The Creative Writing department is proud to present Migration Stories, an ongoing project, which will launch with a first evening of readings around the theme of migration on Thursday, April 13. Novelist and Creative Writing faculty member Vu Tran will read with University of Chicago creative writing students, and there will be a special presentation on the current state of immigration law by Maria Woltjen, director of the Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights.
REMINDER:Two Weeks to April 18 Tax Filing Deadline
The IRS deadline for filing 2016 tax returns is almost here. If you are filing a 2016 tax return and haven't started yet, we recommend you start preparing your return ASAP. It will take some time to gather your required documents and create the return, so it is a good idea to allow plenty of time to complete it. Visit our website to determine your tax residency status and learn what you need to file.
Restriction on Electronic Devices on Flights to U.S. and U.K. from Several Countries
Due to an apparent terrorist threat, both the U.S. and the U.K. are imposing restrictions on electronic devices that can be carried on board for flights originating in a number of countries in the Middle East and North Africa. The restrictions permit only mobile phones to be carried onboard and the U.K. is imposing restrictions on the size of phones permitted. Depending on airline rules, devices such as laptops and tablets may be stowed in checked baggage.
Federal Judges Impose Temporary Restraining Orders on New Executive Order on Immigration
On March 16, 2017, a new Executive Order on immigration was to go into effect that restricted travel to the U.S. by nationals from 6 countries and provided clarification of who would be exempt from the ban and who might be able to obtain a waiver. On March 15, 2017, two federal judges imposed temporary restraining orders which prevented the new Executive Order from going into effect. It is not yet known how the legal process surrounding the Executive Order will unfold, nor have government agencies offered guidance in case the Executive Order will go into effect eventually. OIA is monitor
New Executive Order on Immigration Issued on March 6, 2017
On March 6, 2017 a new Executive Order Protecting The Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States was signed. It revokes Executive Order 13769 of January 27, 2017 and differs from the previous order in several respects, including clarification of who is subject to and who is exempt from the suspension of entry to the U.S. The new Executive Order takes effect on March 16, 2017.
USCIS Suspends Premium Processing Service
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS), the agency tasked with managing a range of immigration benefits including various applications for employment authorization and H-1B status, announced on Friday, March 3, 2017, that the Premium Processing service for H-1B petitions will be suspended as of April 3, 2017. The suspension may remain in place for six (6) months.
New Executive Order Anticipated the Week of February 27, 2017
A new executive order on immigration was expected this week but is now said to be issued next week. For additional information, see http://www.nafsa.org/Professional_Resources/Browse_by_Interest/International_Students_and_Scholars/Immigration_Executive_Actions_Under_the_Trump_Administration/. OIA is closely monitoring developments and will provide updates as soon as new information becomes available.
New Executive Order Expected Soon
According to statements made by President Trump in a press conference on February 16, 2017 and an announcement from the U.S. Department of Justice on the same day, a new executive order on immigration is expected for the week of February 20, 2017.
UChicago and 16 other universities file brief in immigration case
For the full article, including a link to the amicus brief, please see https://news.uchicago.edu/article/2017/02/13/uchicago-and-16-other-universities-file-brief-immigration-case.
Change in Non-Resident Tax Software Provider
To support our international population, OIA pays for software licenses that allow most individuals in F-1 and J-1 status to file federal taxes through third-party vendor for free or a reduced cost. In the past, OIA partnered with a program called Glacier to provide resources for foreign national tax returns.
Information Session on Immigration
OIA is offering an information session on the Executive Order (EO) Protecting the Nation from Terrorist Attacks by Foreign Nationals and the legal steps that have ensued since the EO was signed. Immigration attorneys from Kempster, Corcoran, Quiceno & Lenz-Calvo will provide information and answer questions to help members of the UChicago international community gain a better understanding of current circumstances and how they may impact their lives and academic activity. The session is open to the public and all are invited to attend.
Federal Judge Imposes Temporary Restraining Order Against Travel Ban
For the full text of the Temporary Restraining Order and CNN's reporting and interpretation, visit our Updates page.
New List for Immigration Updates
A new list has been created to keep all those informed of updates related to Executive Orders on immigration who are not otherwise subscribed to specific lists already, for example our list for international students or our list for J status holders. Updates_on_executive_orders_on_immigration@lists.uchicago.edu is open to subscribers now. There are two methods to subscribe: Click on the link above and enter "subscribe" in the subject line, then click send.
Guidance for International Students and Scholars
A document providing guidance for international students and scholars in light of the recent Executive Order on immigration has now been posted to Updates on Presidential Executive Orders Affecting Immigration. An information session with guidance for members of the University community is scheduled for Wednesday, February 8, 6:00-8:00PM in Ida Noyes Hall, Cloister Club.
Discussion on Trump's Executive Order on Mon, Jan 30 from 12:00-1:20PM in Saieh 021
The Political Theory Workshop will host a discussion on Trump's executive order during its regular time and location (Saieh Hall, Room 021 12:00pm-1:20pm). Joining us will be Aziz Huq of the Law School, Tara Zahra of the History Department, and Tamara Felden, Director of the Office of International Affairs. (Prof. Zahra will be arriving slightly later in the session because of a prior engagement.)
New Feature: Updates on Presidential Executive Orders Affecting Immigration
Recent Presidential Executive Orders on immigration have caused concern among international students and scholars, their families, and their faculty and departments. To facilitate communication and provide one site for updates from the University as well as relevant news items from elsewhere, we are providing a special webpage "Updates on Presidential Executive Orders Affecting Immigration" listed prominently in the navigation bar on the left. Please visit this page often as we anticipate adding to its content frequently.
English Language Conversation Hours!
Every Monday, the English Language Institute hosts a free conversation hour from 4:30 - 5:30 in Cobb 219. This is a great opportunity to improve English conversational skills and meet other international students. All are encouraged to attend!
Winter is Coming! Are you Prepared?
The first snow of the season was a reminder that winter is coming. Here is what the weather forecast for the week of December 12 includes in both Fahrenheit and Celsius measurements:
Tuesday: F: High of 25, low of 1 C: High of -4, low of -17
Wednesday: F: High of 9, low of 0 C: High of -13, low of -18
Thursday: F: High of 9, low of 4 C: High of -13, low of -16
Global Centers: Annual Call for Proposals
The Faculty Directors and Steering Committees for the University of Chicago Global Centers in Beijing, New Delhi and Hong Kong are calling for proposals for faculty and student projects for the 2016-2017 academic year.
Study Abroad Opportunities at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem!
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is offering two unique study abroad opportunities this summer! Through an extensive series of lectures, meetings, and site-visits, our programs provide an eye-opening experience and the opportunity to learn first-hand about some of the world's most important issues and developments unfolding in Israel, a crossroads for humanity and "Start-up Nation."
Call for Japan America Society of Chicago Bonenkai Volunteers
The Japan America Society of Chicago is pleased to announce that this year’s 30th Annual Holiday Fundraiser & Bonenkai will be held on Thursday, December 8, 2016 at the Union League Club of Chicago. The Society is currently seeking volunteers to assist the day of the gala. Volunteers will assist with registration, passing out auction books, auction room monitoring, raffle sales and auction coordination. A light dinner will be provided with a thank you brunch to follow in the New Year!
Understanding the U.S. Immigration System
Dear International Students and Scholars,
In a recent message I promised to continue providing as much information as possible in answer to the many questions you have been raising. I also indicated that part of the answer lies in an understanding of the processes involved in framing immigration and immigration-related law and regulations.
International House Summer Quarter Housing Program Announced
Beginning in 2017, International House will provide Summer Quarter housing to UChicago graduate and professional school students, trainees and interns, visiting scholars and postdoctoral researchers. Hailing from every region of the world, summer residents of International House will find an instant circle of friends that transcends political, religious, geographic, and ethnic boundaries.
Learning About the U.S. Legislative Process
Dear International Students and Scholars,
I have been getting a wide variety of questions from international students and scholars who are uncertain of the impact of the presidential election on their immigration status. As you know from a message you recently received, nothing in your F-1, J-1, H-1B or other immigration status with the University has changed. It may also help you to know that changing any law, including immigration law, requires a complex process subject to many different influences and takes time.
Election Debrief Events Hosted by UChicago's Institute of Politics
With the 2016 election now in the rear view mirror, it's time to a take a look at what just happened, what it means, and what's coming next. In the coming days, UChicago's Institute of Politics will be hosting a series of events debriefing President-elect Donald Trump's victory last night.
You can find out more about events on the Insittue of Politics' events page.
Possible Visa Revocation Based on U.S. Arrest Record
OIA has learned that the U.S. Department of State has implemented a policy which requires consular officers to revoke non-immigrant visas of individuals arrested for, or convicted of, driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated, or similar arrests/convictions that occurred within the previous five years. This requirement does not apply when the arrest/conviction occurred prior to the date of the visa application and has already been assessed within the context of a visa application.
USCIS Filing Fees to Increase Effective December 23
Effective December 23, 2016, the filing fees for many USCIS petitions and applications will increase, according to a final regulation that was published by the Federal Register in October. This planned increased has been under review for the last few years and is the first fee increase since 2010.
The filing fees are increasing by an average of 21% across petitions to accommodate the cost of services provided by the agency.
IMPACT:
SEVIS Fee Payment Site will be Unavailable on Nov. 16 due to Upgrade
On Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2016, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) will upgrade FMJFee.com, a site that allows F-1, M-1 and J-1 nonimmigrants to pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee. During this upgrade, the site will be unavailable. SEVP anticipates the outage to begin around 8 a.m. EST and last between two to four hours.
Congratulations to AEPP Students on Final Project Book
The Academic English Pre-Matriculation Program (AEPP) is a rigorous and intensive, yet tremendously rewarding course designed to build proficiency in North American English with a specific focus on Chicago. It is for incoming international students for whom English is an additional (or second) language and who have not previously lived or studied in the United States.
At the completion of this year's program, AEPP students created a book titled Global Perspectives of Chicago, which includes writings from each participant.
Leasing Scam Targeting Students
The OIA recently received a report from an international student who responded to an ad on UChicago Marketplace for a short-term apartment lease and learned that it was a scam. Remember to always exercise caution, even if the posting to which your are responding is from Marketplace.uchicago.edu. Remember that postings made there are not vetted by the University, and on occasion someone may use Marketplace in inappropriate ways.
Czech Series: Celebrating UChicago's Contribution to Czech Statehood and Honoring Czechoslovak Presidents
The Consulate General of the Czech Republic, in partnership with the University of Chicago's Slavic Department, will be hosting the inaugural evening of the new "Czech Series". This event will celebrate the University of Chicago´s unique contribution to Czech statehood and honoring Czechoslovak Presidents Tomas Garrigue Masaryk and Edvard Benes, as University´s Visiting Professors.
Recent Plagiarism Scam Targeting International Students
OIA recently received a report of a plagiarism scam targeting international students. The scam consists of scammers e-mailing students using normal-looking gmail addresses and offering to provide academic cheating services that are plagiarism proof in exchange for money. The scammers guarantee good grades and typically communicate with individuals through specific accounts on social networking sites, though the contact methods have reportedly been varied. This scam generally results in students having their money stolen or violations of academic honesty guidelines.
Recent Scam Targeting International Students and Scholars
A new scam has been reported in which scammers target international students and scholars. The scam consists of criminals calling or e-mailing a person and pretending to be a government official. They will say there is a problem with an immigration application or additional information is required to continue the immigration process. They will then ask for personal and sensitive details, and demand payment to fix any problems.
Recent Credit Card Scam Targeting International Students
A new scam has been reported in which criminals target international students. The scam consists of international students being approached by several individuals in person and via social media who offer to pay the student's tuition with a credit card. In turn, the student gives the person access to their student account and the person pays the student's tuition balance using a credit card. Then, the student pays the person back with a check or wire transfer.
Bangladeshi Voice for Solidarity and Peace: Reflection on Recent Terrorist Attacks
Please see below for a message from the consulate of Bangladesh:
Updates for Students with 2014 Tax Return Issues
This message recently went out to all international students who are on the OIA F-1 and J-1 Student mailing list. If you are still having issues with your 2014 tax return, please review the information below. Note that this information is only for tax returns from calendar year 2014 and does not apply to recently filed 2015 tax returns.
Dear Students,
We are writing with an update on IRS matters, as we understand them based on recent communication from the IRS and related sources.
ITIN Appointment Availability in June
Due to limited staff availability, OIA will not be able to provide ITIN appointments or ITIN application processing between June 2 and June 22, 2016. To accommodate students with summer grants and scholarships, we have increased ITIN appointment availability on May 26, May 31, June 1, and after June 22.
F-1 Students: Updated I-20 Format
As you may know, USCIS updated the format of Form I-20 in June 2015. As part of the new form rollout, USCIS will require every F-1 student (and any F-2 dependents) to have the updated Form I-20 for all benefit applications and travel starting July 1, 2016. If you are in F-1 status, OIA asks that you follow the instructions below to check if you need an updated I-20 and take action, if needed. This information applies to F-1 Students only. J-1 students can disregard this message. Please read the entire message before taking any action.
Recent Tax Scam Targeting International Students
OIA has just become aware that a member of our international community was recently contacted by individuals conducting a sophisticated tax scam that seems to target international students.
The scam consists of someone contacting an international student, claiming to be a representative of the IRS or other federal agency, and stating that unless money is paid immediately, the student’s visa will be revoked or they will be arrested.
New STEM Regulations in Effect as of May 10, 2016
After a lengthy review process, the U.S. government recently approved changes in the F-1 OPT STEM extension program. These changes went into effect on May 10, 2016. Changes include an extended duration of the STEM extension period, wider STEM eligibility requirements, increased employer involvement, and additional reporting requirements.
Information about the STEM extension and eligibility requirements can be found on our OIA STEM page.
Letter-writing Event on Monday, 5/2/2016, 5:00pm - please RSVP!
If you are planning to attend the Tax-related letter-writing event this evening (Monday, May 2), please make sure to RSVP on OIA's Facebook Group 2014 Taxes by 12:00 noon today!
Update on 2014 Tax Issues and Additional Events and Features
As problems with international students' 2014 tax returns continue to unfold, we are offering several options you may find helpful.
- An update on where advocacy efforts by NACUBO and others with the IRS stand and what guidance NACUBO* and GLACIER are offering; (*NACUBO=National Association of College and University Business Offices, i.e. the organization that represents offices such as our Payroll or Finance Office)
OIA Closed on Thursday, April 21.
The OIA will be closed on Thursday, the 21st of April for its annual retreat. We will re-open the office on Friday, the 22nd of April at 10:30 AM.
We are sorry for any inconvenience!
OIA Closed on Tuesday, April 19.
Due to some maintenance problems, the OIA will be closed on Tuesday, the 19th of April, from 9-11:30 AM. We will open the office to our clients at 11:30 a.m. We are sorry for any inconvenience.
Tax Scam Targeting International Students
A new scam has been reported in which criminals target international students.
Glacier Tax Prep for Non-Residents Now Available
Each year, OIA pays for licenses that allow UChicago students use Glacier Tax Prep (GTP) without charge to the student. You will require an active CNET ID to use Glacier. Should you decide to file without using Glacier Tax Prep, please be sure you have all of your tax forms before submitting your return. As a reminder, Glacier is for 'non-residents for tax purposes' only. Residents for Tax purposes are not able to use the software.
Recent OPT STEM Changes and OIA Impact
You may have seen the recent news about the final STEM ruling, which was released in the federal registrar March 10, 2016. As the notice indicates, the final STEM rule is expected to go into effect on May 10, 2016.
OIA continues to closely monitor STEM news and updates and we will continue to provide information as more guidance from USCIS becomes available. We are excited to see these positive changes take place.
Director's Message Regarding 2014 Tax Returns & Refunds
Dear International Student,
We would like to provide you with an update on the issues surrounding the 2014 tax returns as many students are experiencing delays in the processing of tax returns for nonresident students and may have received IRS notices (5532C, CP21C, CP22A) or been denied refunds or benefits from 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ submissions for 2014.
To summarize what follows in more extensive detail:
Glacier Tax Prep for non-resident filers will be available in Mid-March
Should you decide to file without using Glacier Tax Prep, please be sure you have all of your tax forms before submitting your return. If you received taxable money from the University, you can expect you receive your form 1042S and other tax forms by March 15.
OIA Closed for Construction: Dec 7-9
The Office of International Affairs will be closed for construction from Mon, Dec 7 through Wed, Dec 9. We will reopen for regular business hours on Thur, Dec 10.
Advisers will be available by email throughout the closure, but the office will be closed for all in-person services, inluding drop-off, pick-up, and travel signatures.
If you need assistance while the office is closed, please email your adviser directly, or write to us at: international-affairs@uchicago.edu.
F-1/J-1 Student: Address Format Update FAQs
Recent changes in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) require particular attention to the format in which you report your US residential address in myUChicago or Booth Portal.
If you are a current F-1 or J-1 Student sponsored by the University, we ask you to update your US address along the guidelines provided below and to do so by December 1, 2015.
These changes only apply to your U.S. residential address. You do not need to update your permanent foreign address unless it has changed.
OIA Office Access
Beginning on Monday, October 19, 2015 entering I-House will require your University ID card. After entering the outer doors from 59th Street, you will find a proximity reader (much like those at the entrance to Regenstein Library, for example) on the right. Please tap or wave your ID card in front of the reader and the inner door will unlock. This mechanism is in place from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm daily and if you visit OIA during our hours of 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday – Friday, this should work very well.
Revised Procedures for Determining Visa Availability for Applicants Waiting to File for Adjustment of Status
USCIS’s procedures for determining visa availability for applicants waiting to file for employment-based or family-sponsored preference adjustment of status have been revised. The revision can be seen in the new format of the Visa Bulletin. The reformed Bulletin now lists two cut-off dates for each backlogged employment-based preference category and country. | Website
Increase in Scams Targeting International Students
Dear International Student or Scholar,
Director's Message: Recent Developments in Regard to STEM Extensions of OPT
If you have been following recent immigration news, you may have become aware that the current regulation allowing for a 17-month STEM extension of OPT has been vacated by a district court. The reason for this intervention was a failure on the part of the Department of Homeland Security to follow proper procedure. The court has given the agency until February 12, 2016 to address the matter. For more details, please see http://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/district-court-vacates-f-1-stem-opt-51055.
Office Closings for the 4th of July
The Office of International Affairs will be closed Thursday, July 2nd and Friday, July 3rd in observance of Independence Day. The Office will reopen on Monday, July 6th with regular hours. Happy Independence Day, and we hope you have a safe and enjoyable holiday! Looking for fun ways to celebrate the 4th of July? Check out the Chicago Celebrations here!
Delays in Visa Issance at U.S. Consulates
See daily updates about this situation on the State Dept Facebook page.
Because of technical problems affecting the State Department’s consular systems, U.S. consulates are temporarily unable to issue visas or other travel documents. Foreign nationals who filed nonimmigrant visa applications or had visa interviews on or after June 9 will not be able to receive their visas until the problems are resolved.
Be With Nepal: Divinity School Wednesday Lunch
Be With Nepal Wed, June 3: 12-2 PM, Swift Hall, Common Room (1st Floor)
At&T Offers Phone Service to International Students with No Deposit
Contact AT&T for more information. This notice is posted as a courtesy and does not constitute OIA or the University's recommendation or endoresement of AT&T or any specific mobile service.
Another Scam Targeting International Students and Scholars
OIA has just become aware that a member of our international community was defrauded of a substantial sum of money through a scam targeting international students and scholars in the US. The scam consists of someone claiming to be an immigration official contacting the international student or scholar, stating that something is wrong with the person’s immigration record/status and that the only way to avoid imminent arrest and/or deportation is to pay certain fees. A very short time-line for such a payment is given and the person making the demand for payment may have certain personal fact
Scam Targeting International Students in Chicago
Recently, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) became aware that scammers are targeting students in the Chicago area in an attempt to solicit funds on behalf of the I-901 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Fee. Scammers are requesting those targeted to send up to $4,000 to avoid deportation. The scammers are using the ‘Location Services’ app on students’ cellular devices to find the students’ location and threaten them with continued pursuit if they do not receive the money.
Message from OIA Director: Campus Climate Survey
International Students: Please see the message below from OIA Director Tamara Felden:
Dear International Student,
USCIS Tax Filing Reminder
Please see below for the important message from USCIS:
This time of year, when you file your income tax returns before the April 15 federal deadline, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) urges you to be careful if a tax preparer offers to also help you prepare and file your immigration forms. Individuals and businesses that prepare tax returns may not be authorized to assist you with immigration services.
Celebrate Spring Festival with Food, Music, and Dance
Considered the most prominent event of the year among Chinese communities, the university’s 2015 Spring Festival celebration will be hosted by the Chinese Student and Scholar Association on February 22 in Mandel Hall. Presented in conjunction with eight local universities (Northwestern, IIT, UIC, Loyola, DePaul, SAIC, Columbia College, and Roosevelt), and sponsored by Asian Cultural Center, this year’s Spring Festival is not to be missed.
Glacier Tax Prep Software Available for Nonresidents
Tax Filing: Glacier Tax Prep Software for Nonresidents Available.
First-time filers should attend a Tax Workshop before accessing the software.
OIA Closed on Mon, Jan 19: Join the MLK Celebration!
In observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. commemoration day, OIA will be closed on Mon, Jan 19. We will reopen for regular business hours on Tue, Jan 20. If you have an immigration emergency while the office is closed, you can contact the Dean on Call at (773) 834-HELP (4357) or 4-HELP from a campus phone.
Join in the Celebration:
25th annual MLK Commemoration Celebration Thursday, January 15, 2015 • 6 PM • Rockefeller Memorial Chapel “What does justice look like?”
Holiday Greetings
This is a time when many faith traditions around the world celebrate high holidays and participate in religious observance, contemplate the good the year has brought, seek atonement, and spend special moments with and remembering loved ones. It is a time when we give thanks and remember “the better angels of our nature.”
OIA Winter Break Office Closures 2014
The Office of International Affairs will closed on specific dates during Winter break. Outside of the dates listed, OIA will be open for regular business hours. You can find all holiday closures on the OIA calendar.
OIA Holiday Closures:
OIA will be closed during the following dates and times. Please make arrangements around these closures for any OIA business:
- Wed, Dec 17: Half-day (OIA closes at 1 PM)
- Wed, Dec 24: Half-Day (OIA closes at Noon)
- Thu, Dec 25: All Day
Chicago Winter Guide 2014
If you are staying in Chicago over winter, make sure to get out and enjoy some of the many special events our city has to offer:
Change to U.S./China Visas
The United States and the People’s Republic of China have recently increased the validity of short-term business/tourist visas and student and exchange visas issued to each other’s citizens.
Thinking of Winter
Winter does not officially begin until December 21, but snowflakes were dancing in the air this morning and this has been the week when we have seen winter coats and hats appear on campus.
'Let's Talk' Autumn Quarter Hours
The Student Counseling Service has set up Let's Talk hours and locations for Autumn Quarter. Hours and locations are as follows:
TUESDAY 4 PM–6 PM 5710 Woodlawn, Room 301
WEDNESDAY NOON–1:30 PM Harris School, 1155 E. 60th St., Room 153C
FRIDAY 3 PM–4:15 PM Biological Sciences Learning Center (BSLC), 924 E. 57th St., Room 313
Scam Targeting International Students and Scholars
OIA has just become aware that a member of our international community was defrauded of a substantial sum of money through a scam targeting international students and scholars in the US. The scam consists of someone claiming to be an immigration official contacting the international student or scholar, stating that something is wrong with the person’s immigration record/status and that the only way to avoid imminent arrest and/or deportation is to pay certain fees. A very short time-line for such a payment is given and the person making the demand for payment may have certain personal fac
OIA Opens at 12:30 PM on Wed, August 6
Due to the annual I-House fire alarm testing process, OIA will be closed from 9 AM to 12:30 PM on Wednesday, August 6. We will reopen for regular business hours at 12:30 PM. Advisers will still be available through email during the morning.
OIA Opens at 12:30 PM | Wed, Aug 6: 12:30 PM
Student Employment Opportunities: Work at OIA!
OIA is now accepting applications for several open Graduate Student Assistant positions. Graduate Student Assistants will assist with events and programming, as well as help with other office functions. See the job posting for more information requirements (log-in required).
Requisition ID: 455745 | Student Employment Website
OIA Closing on Thu, July 3 - Fri, July 4
In honor of Independence Day, OIA will be closed all day on Thursday, July 3 and Friday, July 4. We will reopen for regular business hours on Monday, July 7. If you have an immigration emergency while the office is closed, you can contact the Dean on Call through the UChicago campus police: (773) 834-HELP (4357) or 4-HELP from a campus phone.
International Policy Committee Seeks New Members
The Institute of Politics (IOP) is currently seeking applications to the International Policy Committee, the executive body of the International Policy Program.
OIA Closing at 10 AM on Fri, June 20
TOMORROW: OIA Closing Early Fri, June 20: 10 AM Due to our divisional picnic, OIA will close at 10 AM on Friday, June 20. We will be open for drop off/pick up only from 9 AM to 10 AM. If you need service from OIA, please make arrangements accordingly.
OIA Summer Tips
Dear all,
OIA is open all summer in case you need our services. Do not forget to come get your travel signatures if you are leaving the US during the summer. The office is open daily 9-4 PM.
We are having a White Sox baseball outing on 18th July and summer carnival in early August so come have fun with us! We look forward to seeing you!
IMPACT Recruiting Mentors Now
Calling all current PhD students in BSD, PSD, SSD, & Humanities!
Did you have a hard time getting around, finding a grocery store, or navigating the CTA when you came to Chicago? Do you wish you had someone you could ask about where to get coffee or how to use the library printing system? Now you can help incoming international students answer these questions and adjust to life at UChicago!
The application deadline is May 7. More information on the program can be found here.
Today's (4/29/14) Tax Withholding Workshop Cancelled
Due to a scheduling conflict with the presenter, today's Tax Withholding Workshop has been cancelled and will be rescheduled for a later date. You will receive communication with an updated date and time for this workshop once it has been rescheduled.
In the meantime, you can get information about tax withholding on our new employee website.
1-Minute Survey: Green Card after Marrying a U.S. Citizen
Dear International Student or Scholar,
OIA occasionally gets requests for information regarding green cards based on marriage to a U.S. citizen and we are exploring whether we should develop better resources on this topic. So we are asking you to take a 1-Minute Survey (2 questions and 1 comment box) to help us make this determination. Please respond to the survey even if you are not interested in such resources; one of the possible answers lets you indicate this. Thank you for your time and for supporting our work!
New Ways to Submit Feedback to OIA
The Office of International Affairs now has two additional methods of communication available for international students, scholars, employees, spouses, and others. Visitors to the OIA webpage can now submit an anonymous comment, suggestion, or issue through OIA’s Online Comment Box. Your personal information will not be collected when you
New service available to transfer funds internationally
Dear International Student,
We are very pleased to announce a new service available to those of you who need to transfer funds from abroad to the University of Chicago to pay for tuition and fees. While you have always been able to do so via wire transfers, you have told us that those can be expensive, slow, and unreliable. The University has now partnered with peerTransfer to provide a system that has several advantages:
peerTransfer allows you to:
USCIS Stakeholder Message: Recent Telephone Scams
USCIS sends the following message:
Dear Stakeholder,
Message from OIA Director Tamara Felden regarding U.S v. Windsor and the end of DOMA
Dear Members of our International Community,
Scam Alert: Individuals Misrepresenting Themselves as DHS Employees Calling Indian Nationals
ACIP Reports:
ACIP has received recent reports of Indian nationals in the U.S. receiving phone calls from people falsely representing themselves as DHS employees asking the foreign nationals to pay a penalty via money transfer to resolve discrepancies in their immigration cases. The people making the phone calls have had access to personal information such as passport numbers and foreign addresses and have threatened adverse actions such as deportation.
Fragomen: Foreign Students and Exchange Visitors Face Closer Scrutiny, Delays at U.S. Ports of Entry
Law firm Fragomen reports:
Foreign Students and Exchange Visitors Face Closer Scrutiny, Delays at U.S. Ports of Entry
May 9, 2013
F-1 and M-1 foreign students and J-1 exchange visitors are facing additional questioning and entry delays at U.S. ports, after a change in Customs and Border Protection procedures following the April 15 bombings in Boston.