Dear International Students and Scholars,
As you may have read in recent news coverage, some international students across the United States have recently had their visas revoked and their SEVIS records terminated.
News reports suggest that these revocations and terminations are occurring as a result of political activity related to the Israel/Gaza conflict, past law enforcement issues (such as arrests/convictions for driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, domestic violence, or other unlawful acts), and/or prior visa infractions.
We have prepared answers to frequently asked questions about the implications of visa revocations and SEVIS terminations, steps to take if you are affected, and sources of support—whether you have visa-related concerns or simply need someone to talk to. Please see below.
Our international students and scholars are valued members of the Trojan Family. Please take advantage of the university’s support resources and, if you have questions regarding your particular situation, please contact an OIS advisor.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers (FAQs)
Q: What is a SEVIS record termination?
A: SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is the government’s database for tracking international students and scholars with F-1 and J-1 visa status. Traditionally, SEVIS terminations have been initiated by a university’s Designated School Officials (OIS staff serve as USC’s DSOs) following a change in or violation of a student’s status. However, recently the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has invoked its inherent authority to terminate student SEVIS records itself. Termination of a SEVIS record by DHS ends that student’s lawful status in the U.S. Upon learning that a student’s SEVIS record has been terminated by DHS, OIS will notify the student. Students in those circumstances should consult with legal counsel.
Q: What is a visa revocation?
A: The U.S. Department of State has the authority to revoke a previously issued visa. When a visa stamp in a passport is revoked, it is no longer valid for entry into the United States, even if it shows a future expiration date. If an F-1 or J-1 visa holder is in the U.S. at the time of revocation, they may remain in the country if they continue to maintain valid status, but they will not be able to use the revoked visa for re-entry if they depart. Revocation does not necessarily terminate a person’s status in the U.S., but the reason for the revocation could lead the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to review the student’s record and determine that the individual is out of status.
Q: How would I know if my visa is revoked?
A: When the U.S. Department of State revokes a visa, it typically sends a notification to the email address listed on the visa application. Note that this may not be your university email address. The university is not routinely informed of visa revocations, so if you receive such a notice, please inform the Office of International Services (OIS).
There have been reports of inconsistent notification practices. If you are concerned that your visa may have been revoked and have not been notified, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate that issued the visa or check your visa status using the Department of State’s Visa Status Check portal.
Q: If my visa stamp has expired does that mean my visa has been revoked?
A: No. An expired visa is not the same as a revoked visa. A visa is used only for entry into the United States; it does not determine how long you may stay. The length of your authorized stay is determined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the time of entry, as reflected on your Form I-94 and supported by a valid SEVIS Form I-20 (for F-1 students) or DS-2019 (for J-1 students and scholars).
If your visa has expired and you leave the U.S., you will need to obtain a new visa before reentering.
Q: What should I do if I learn that my visa has been revoked and/or my SEVIS record is terminated?
A: If you are notified that your visa has been revoked, please contact OIS with the information you received. OIS will consult the SEVIS database to determine if your SEVIS record reflects termination. A SEVIS record termination indicates that F-1 or J-1 status has ended.
If a student’s visa is revoked and/or their SEVIS record is terminated, their next step is to consult with an immigration attorney.
The USC Gould Immigrant Legal Assistance Center (ILAC), provides free, confidential consultations and legal referrals to members of the USC Trojan Family, students, staff members, contract employees, faculty and immediate family members, who may be at risk of deportation, who may be eligible to apply for immigration status, or who have questions about their legal status and legal rights under the immigration laws.
Under federal regulations, a nonimmigrant (F-1) student who fails to maintain status is not eligible for an additional period for departure (8 CFR 214.2(f)(5)(iv)) and is no longer authorized for on-campus employment or curricular practical training (8 CFR 274a.12(b)(6)). The termination of status could also impact a student’s enrollment. Students on post-completion practical training (OPT or STEM OPT) will no longer have work authorization. J-1 students are will no longer be authorized for Academic Training.
It is important to note that remaining in the United States without lawful immigration status may result in fines, detention, and/or removal (deportation), and could also impact eligibility for future U.S. visas.
Q. What can I do if ICE officials attempt to take me into custody?
A: Review the Know Your Rights information posted on the USC Gould Immigration Clinic’s Immigrant Legal Assistance Center (ILAC)website.
In accordance with state law, USC has designated Niels W. Frenzen, Esq., Co-Director of the USC Gould Immigration Clinic, as the point of contact for any student or employee who may or could be subject to an immigration order or inquiry. Urgent immigration enforcement matters should be reported to ILAC’s Emergency Arrest Hotline at (213) 740-7435. Non-urgent inquiries should be made to ILAC at (213) 821-9627. Professor Frenzen may be reached by phone at (213) 740-8933 or email at nfrenzen@law.usc.edu.
In accordance with state law and the university’s Policy on Responding to Immigration Enforcement Actions, all faculty, staff, and other covered personnel are required to immediately contact the USC Department of Public Safety (DPS) at (213) 740-6000 if they become aware that a student or employee may have been taken into custody as the result of an immigration enforcement action. DPS will inform the appropriate campus officials and the individual’s emergency contact will be notified and provided with information about ILAC’s Emergency Arrest Hotline.
Q: Where can I find guidance pertaining to international travel and re-entry into the United States?
A: International students and scholars should make travel decisions very carefully and assess risks and restrictions that can impact specific groups or individuals differently. It is essential to review and follow OIS guidance on maintaining visa status and ensuring proper documentation for travel. To be fully prepared, students are also strongly encouraged to review OIS guidance regarding what to expect at a port of entry.
Q: Where can I get support?
A: The university maintains a list of support resources on the Report & Response website. The team in Campus Support & Intervention is available to help students navigate complex challenges and connect with care. In addition, Counseling and Mental Health in USC Student Health provides mental health care services, including therapy, crisis support, and psychiatry, through participation in the student health fee. Students who need to discuss a personal situation, feel distressed, or feel they may need counseling are encouraged to reach out to CMH. They offer a safe, confidential place where a student can get support. Students can make an appointment through MySHR or by calling 213-740-9355 (WELL).
For more information on how USC is handling various issues related to Executive Orders and Federal Agency Directives, please visit We Are SC.
Q: Will USC keep my information private?
A: The university only shares student and employee records with immigration agencies when it is legally required to do so.