Over the last few weeks, news outlets have reported actions taken against international students and scholars including specific instances of immigration status being terminated without notice to the individual or the university. The university—together with peer institutions—has been closely monitoring these issues, advocating for those impacted, and working together to communicate information in support our international community.
We want to emphasize that our international students and scholars are both wanted and needed here at the University of Illinois, and we will continue strive to create a campus where faculty, staff and students from all areas of the word feel welcome.
This message summarizes frequently asked questions International Student and Scholar Services has received regarding the immigration actions reported in the news. Immigration issues are nuanced, complicated, and specific to each individual case. ISSS is sharing this information to keep our community informed.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions are specific to immigration laws and policies in the United States.
What is the difference between an entry visa and immigration status?
An entry visa is the document individuals receive that permits them entry into the United States. Entry visas can expire while the holder is in the United States without any negative effect on the holder’s immigration status. Immigration status is a legal classification that outlines your permitted activities while in the United States, such as a student, employee, or tourist.
What role does ISSS have in maintaining immigration status information?
Individuals are responsible for maintaining their own immigration status. ISSS is federally mandated to maintain and update records and ensure all student and scholar information is up to date in the Student Exchange and Visitor Information System (SEVIS) on behalf of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. ISSS also advises students and scholars on how to maintain their immigration status and remain compliant with federal laws and regulations.
I have heard reports of immigration status’ being terminated. What does that mean?
Termination refers to the process of cancelling an individual’s immigration status in SEVIS. This can be done by federal agencies or the school for many different reasons including an individual changing to a different status, failing to maintain status requirements, and many more.
What happens when an immigration status is terminated?
ISSS regularly monitors SEVIS immigration status terminations. When a status is terminated, by either a federal agency or the school, ISSS directly communicates with the individual to provide details and options specific to the student or scholar’s unique situation.
What resources are available to me if my immigration status is terminated?
Options vary depending on the circumstances of the termination. ISSS will communicate directly with the individual to provide specific details and options.
What is the university doing to advocate for international students and scholars?
In addition to pursuing strategies and initiatives in consultation with our peers throughout the Association of American Universities (AAU), the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities, and other national organizations, the university has joined the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, an alliance of over 500 college and university leaders, in condemning the apprehension and detention of international students.