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CPT NOTICE
Effective immediately, UVA is suspending the authorization of non-required, course-credit CPT requests. This includes opportunities tied to academic credit, which are integral to the program of study but not required for degree completion. Visit CPT Update | International Students & Scholars Program for the latest information.
Duration of Status & Academic Mobility
On September 14, 2026, a nationwide preliminary injunction was issued, which blocks the Elimination of Duration of Status rule from taking effect and prohibits DHS and USCIS from implementing it. The government is expected to appeal the injunction. Please continue to monitor our FAQ page, which we will continue to update with any developments as the case continues.
The Department of Homeland Security's rule introduces significant changes to regulations governing F and J visa holders, including:
- The elimination of Duration of Status
- Restrictions on academic mobility
For more information visit FAQ: Elimination of Duration of Status & Academic Mobility | International Students & Scholars Program
IRS COVID Stimulus Checks Sent in Error
The following information is provided by the IRS and Sprintax:
https://blog.sprintax.com/nonresident-aliens-guide-navigating-covid-19-cares-act-stimulus-payments/
https://blog.sprintax.com/tax-recovery-rebate-credit-nonresidents/
https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc161
In December 2024, the IRS began issuing COVID stimulus payments to individuals who did not file 2021/2022 tax returns.
This has caused confusion among nonresidents, many of whom unexpectedly received these payments. If you've recently gotten such a payment, it may be because you filed a 1040 tax return after 2022, prompting the IRS to issue the payment in error.
If you were a nonresident in 2020 or 2021 and received this payment by mistake, you are obligated to return it and inform the IRS of your nonresident status during those years.
If you filed incorrectly, you must also file an amended return for the incorrect tax year.
If the payment was a paper check and hasn't been cashed:
1. Write "Void" in the endorsement section on the back of the check.
2. If you live in Virginia, immediately mail the voided Treasury check to: Atlanta Refund Inquiry Unit, 4800 Buford Hwy, Mail Stop 112, Chamblee, GA 30341. If you did not file as a Virginia resident, please check the IRS website for the correct mailing address.
3. Don't staple, bend, or paper clip the check.
4. Include a note stating "Return of erroneous refund check" and give a brief explanation of the reason for returning the check.
If the payment was a paper check and has been cashed, or if the payment was a direct deposit:
1. Submit a personal check, money order, etc., immediately to the appropriate IRS location: Atlanta Refund Inquiry Unit, 4800 Buford Hwy, Mail Stop 112, Chamblee, GA 30341. If you did not file as a Virginia resident, please check the IRS website for the correct mailing address.
2. Write on the check/money order: "Payment of Erroneous Refund," the tax period for which the refund was issued, the account type (individual), and your taxpayer identification number (social security number or individual taxpayer identification number).
3. Include a brief explanation of the reason for returning the refund.
4. Cashing an erroneous refund check may result in interest due to the IRS.
Please review the IRS web page and Sprintax blog posts linked above for further information, including how to file an amended tax return.