Official Resources & Links
Verified links to USCIS policy manuals, regulatory citations, STEM OPT resources, and legal service directories. Every link on this page has been checked against official sources.
Educational information only. Not legal advice. Consult a qualified immigration attorney for your specific situation. Full disclaimer
Verify before you rely
Immigration policies and procedures change frequently. While we make every effort to keep these links current, always verify information directly on the official source website. Links were last reviewed in April 2026.
USCIS Policy Manual
The USCIS Policy Manual is the authoritative source for understanding how USCIS adjudicates immigration petitions. These links go to specific chapters relevant to each pathway.
The complete USCIS Policy Manual volume covering all employment-based immigrant categories, including EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3.
USCIS guidance on adjudicating EB-1A petitions, including the 10 criteria and the Kazarian two-step evaluation framework.
USCIS guidance on the 6 criteria for outstanding professors and researchers, including documentation requirements.
USCIS policy on EB-2 classification including the National Interest Waiver and the Matter of Dhanasar analytical framework.
Official USCIS page for H-1B specialty occupation visa, including filing procedures, registration, and cap information.
Official USCIS information on OPT eligibility, application procedures, and STEM OPT extension requirements.
Key Regulatory Citations
Federal regulations and statutes that define the legal requirements for each immigration pathway. These are the legal foundations behind every USCIS decision.
The Immigration and Nationality Act provision establishing the EB-1A extraordinary ability classification.
The statutory basis for the EB-1B outstanding professor and researcher classification.
The federal regulation listing the 10 criteria for EB-1A extraordinary ability and evidentiary requirements.
The federal regulation defining the 6 criteria for EB-1B outstanding professors and researchers.
The federal regulation governing the EB-2 National Interest Waiver, including the Dhanasar analytical framework.
The federal regulation governing H-1B temporary worker petitions, including specialty occupation definitions and cap provisions.
NAFSA Resources
NAFSA: Association of International Educators is the leading professional association for international education. Their resources are trusted by university international offices nationwide.
The main NAFSA website with resources for international students, scholars, and the advisors who support them.
NAFSA's comprehensive guide for international student advisers covering OPT, H-1B, and employment-based green card categories.
STEM OPT Resources
Resources for determining whether your degree program qualifies for the STEM OPT 24-month extension.
The official Department of Homeland Security list of STEM-designated degree programs eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Check your CIP code here.
The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) resource page for STEM OPT, including employer and student responsibilities, I-983 requirements, and E-Verify information.
The National Center for Education Statistics Classification of Instructional Programs code search. Use this to find or verify your program's CIP code.
Finding an Immigration Attorney
Immigration law is complex and fact-specific. For important decisions, consult a qualified immigration attorney. These resources can help you find one.
The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) lawyer search tool. Find an attorney who specializes in employment-based immigration in your area.
The Catholic Legal Immigration Network's directory of affordable immigration legal services providers across the United States.
A directory of free legal aid programs organized by state. Many legal aid organizations offer immigration services on a sliding scale.
Most universities have an ISSO (International Students and Scholars Office) that can provide guidance on immigration matters and connect you with qualified attorneys.
Free and Low-Cost Legal Resources for Students
Many organizations offer pro bono or reduced-cost immigration legal services specifically for students and scholars.
USCIS official directory of low-cost legal service providers recognized by the Department of Justice.
A nationwide directory of free and low-cost immigration legal services, searchable by state and service type.
The Department of Justice list of organizations and accredited representatives authorized to provide immigration legal services.
Beware of immigration scams
Only work with attorneys licensed to practice law in the United States or DOJ-accredited representatives. Be wary of “notarios,” immigration consultants, or anyone promising guaranteed results. You can verify an attorney's standing through your state's bar association website.