F-1 Visa Crackdowns Trigger Student Uncertainty: Why EB-5 Offers a Safer Path

Recent policy shifts—including SEVIS cancellations, heightened scrutiny of F-1 visa holders’ social media accounts, and the suspension of student visa interviews—have created unprecedented uncertainty for international students in the U.S. These developments, combined with the employment and time limitations of the F-1 visa, are prompting many students to consider the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program as a more secure and stable pathway to permanent residency. 

 

Today’s F-1 Visa Challenges Are Unprecedented 

 

SEVIS Cancellations and Visa Revocations 

• Abrupt SEVIS terminations and visa cancellations have left students at top universities—including Duke and Harvard—vulnerable to deportation or legal limbo, often with little or no warning. 

• For example, two Duke graduate students and a former student recently had their F-1 visas revoked and their SEVIS records terminated, making them ineligible to continue their studies or work in the U.S. 

• Although there has been a temporary restoration of SEVIS records following court challenges, the situation remains fluid and uncertain for thousands of students nationwide. 

Institutional Crackdowns on Enrolling International Students 

• The Trump administration recently revoked Harvard University’s authority to enroll international students, forcing current students to transfer or risk losing their legal status. 

• This move signals a broader crackdown that could extend to other universities. 

Suspension of Student Visa Interviews and New Social Media Requirements

• Secretary of State Marco Rubio has paused all F-1 student visa interviews at U.S. consular posts as the State Department intensifies its review of applicants’ social media accounts. Under the new policy, all student visa applicants must set their social media profiles to public, enabling consular officials to examine their online activity as part of the visa screening process. Those who do not comply risk being denied a visa.  

• These changes have further complicated and delayed the approval process for both new and returning students, disrupting plans for families as they prepare for the upcoming academic year.

 

Other F-1 Restrictions 

 

No Pathway to Permanent Residency & Limited Work Opportunities for Students Relying on CPT and OPT 

• Even for F-1 students already in the United States and able to enroll and participate in their educational programs, the F-1 and similar visas still have their limitations, particularly for those with dreams of obtaining U.S. employment and opportunities for U.S. permanent residency. 

• F-1 visa holders are restricted to on-campus employment (up to 20 hours per week during classes) and Optional Practical Training (OPT). 

• Even with OPT, transitioning to an H-1B visa is highly competitive and uncertain. 

Travel Risks 

• Traveling on an F-1 visa has become riskier, as re-entry is not guaranteed amid ongoing policy changes like the cancellation of interviews and increased scrutiny at the personal and institutional level. 

 

Why Shift from F-1 to EB-5 with Behring Regional Center? 

 

Behring Regional Center is a USCIS-designated EB-5 Regional Center with a perfect record of accomplishment on job creation and project performance, stemming from well-vetted, job-creating projects in top-tier assets and locations. As F-1 students face increasing uncertainty due to SEVIS cancellations and visa restrictions, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program presents a secure alternative that leads to permanent residency while contributing to U.S. economic growth. 

Key Advantages Over the F-1 Visa 

• Direct Path to Green Card: EB-5 leads to permanent residency for the investor, spouse, and unmarried children under 21. 

• Independence from SEVIS: EB-5 investors are not subject to SEVIS record-keeping or the government policy changes specifically targeting students. 

• Concurrent Filing: Students already in the U.S. can file Form I-526E (EB-5 petition) and Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) together, allowing them to work and travel while awaiting approval. 

• Educational Benefits: Green Card holders can access in-state tuition, scholarships, and financial aid at public universities, reducing education costs. 

• Family Security: The EB-5 program covers the investor’s immediate family, offering long-term security and flexibility. 

 

I Need to Act Now – How Do I Proceed? 

 

Take control of your future today and avoid the restrictions of an F-1 student visa—schedule a one-on-one consultation with Behring’s industry-leading team of EB-5 professionals. Our experts are ready to answer your questions, explain the EB-5 process, and help you develop a personalized strategy for your investment and immigration goals. Book your call now to get started on your path to permanent residency and long-term security in the U.S. 

Students and their families can also explore Behring’s unique EB-5 advantages by visiting our comprehensive video library on YouTube, where you’ll find educational content, real investor stories, and detailed program insights. 

Stay informed and empowered by bookmarking our blog at BehringEB5.com. We regularly share the latest USCIS approvals, EB-5 strategies, and investor testimonials to help you navigate the complexities of immigration and investment at every level. Behring is here to guide you every step of the way—don’t wait, connect with us today!