In our recent webinar, CanAm Enterprises COO Christine Chen and leading EB-5 immigration attorney Carolyn Lee discussed the growing challenges facing international students on F-1 visas—and why the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a more stable path forward. At the time, the landscape was already shifting rapidly. Since then, significant updates have only added urgency to the conversation.
This blog revisits key insights from that discussion and provides timely updates to help international students make informed decisions in 2025. The core message remains the same: while the U.S. still welcomes international students, it’s more important than ever to plan carefully and consider long-term options like EB-5.
What’s Changed Since the Webinar?
On June 18, 2025, the U.S. Department of State reinstated in-person visa interviews for F, M, and J visa applicants. But this positive development came with new and expanded screening protocols that every student should be aware of.
Key updates include:
- Mandatory Public Social Media: Applicants must make their online profiles public to facilitate deeper consular vetting.
- Expanded Online Review: Consular officers are instructed to conduct full-scope reviews of applicants’ online activity—not just social media—for inconsistencies or security concerns.
- Automatic INA § 221(g) Refusals: Even well-prepared applicants will now be issued an initial refusal pending further review, as part of standard procedure.
- Single-Officer Review: The same officer must handle both the interview and vetting to ensure consistency.
- No Time Limits: Officers have full discretion to take the time they need to complete these checks, potentially extending processing timelines.
These new procedures—justified under Executive Orders 14161 and 14188—mark a significant change in how student visa applications are reviewed. While they reflect broader national security priorities, they also introduce new challenges and longer delays for students navigating the process.
But there’s also good news: the U.S. remains open to international students. These updates are not meant to close the door—but to reinforce the importance of strategy, documentation, and planning.
What Hasn’t Changed: F-1 Vulnerabilities and Growing Uncertainty
In the original webinar, Carolyn Lee underscored the growing risks associated with maintaining F-1 status, citing sudden visa revocations, SEVIS terminations, and opaque decision-making by U.S. immigration authorities.
“What we’re seeing is one or the other—or both: the F-1 visa revocations from State and F-1 status terminations on the SEVIS side by ICE,” Lee said. “The State Department has plenary authority to revoke visas.”
Students can find themselves out of status through no fault of their own—and often without explanation. Even minor or long-resolved legal incidents, or ambiguous social media activity, could now trigger added scrutiny.
That risk has only increased under the June 18 changes.
“Even if you think you’re totally compliant, it’s easy to feel vulnerable when the rules seem to change, or the enforcement suddenly ramps up,” Chen noted.
EB-5: Still the Strongest Long-Term Option
In light of these updates, the EB-5 program—particularly through concurrent adjustment of status (AOS)—remains one of the most secure and forward-looking immigration strategies available to international students.
“The luckiest of the batch are students who have filed a concurrent adjustment of status application,” Lee explained. “They’re not returning as F-1s using that visa that could be later revoked… they’re not in that sphere.”
Once students receive their Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Advance Parole through EB-5 AOS, they are no longer dependent on the fragile F-1 framework. They can study, work, and travel lawfully in the U.S. while progressing toward permanent residency.
“EB-5 has really afforded them a lot more protection than others have,” said Chen. “It’s not a simplification of their status—it’s a strengthening.”
The 2022 EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act (RIA) made this pathway even more accessible, allowing for concurrent filing of the I-526E and I-485 applications—eliminating the need to wait years for initial approval before adjusting status.
Moving Forward: What Students Should Do Now
Even with stricter screening measures, international students can succeed in the U.S.—but only with a clear plan.
Key next steps:
- Start Early: If you’re considering EB-5, don’t wait. The longer you delay, the more vulnerable your immigration status may become.
- Plan for Delays: Visa processing may take longer due to expanded vetting. Factor this into travel, enrollment, and internship plans.
- Keep Filing, Keep Adjusting: If eligible, file concurrently for EB-5 and adjustment of status. This offers greater protection while allowing you to continue living and studying in the U.S.
- Maintain Digital Awareness: Ensure your online presence aligns with the values and requirements of the visa you’re pursuing. Officers are watching.
- Consult with Legal Experts: Given the complexities, experienced immigration counsel can help you avoid mistakes and build a defensible case.
The U.S. Still Welcomes International Students
Despite the challenges, the core truth remains: international students are still welcome in the United States. American universities continue to value the contributions of global talent. The new visa procedures are not designed to keep students out—but to ensure a deeper level of security and vetting.
“In times of uncertainty, act wisely,” Lee advised.
And that wisdom begins with planning. EB-5 remains one of the few paths that allows international students and their families to gain long-term security, flexibility, and the opportunity to build a life in the U.S. on their own terms.
“Being informed and educated is the best way to create a sense of calm and predictability when there isn’t any to be had,” Chen concluded.
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