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.
Below are frequently asked questions regarding the immigration, visas, terminations, and resources. Immigration issues are nuanced, complicated, and specific to each individual case. We are 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 is an immigration status termination?
Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is the government’s database for tracking international students and scholars with F-1 and J-1 immigration status. Traditionally, SEVIS terminations have been initiated by a university official following a change in or violation of a student’s immigration status (refer to the International Student and Scholar Services website for guidelines regarding maintaining status). Recently, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has used its authority to terminate immigration status through SEVIS itself. This termination of one’s immigration status ends that student’s lawful status in the U.S.
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 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.
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.
How will I be informed if my immigration status is terminated?
When a status is terminated by the U.S. Department of State, the individual will typically be notified at the email address listed on the visa application. If you receive such a notice, please inform ISSS. ISSS will review the SEVIS record to determine if this reflects a termination of the individual's status.
The federal government does not proactively notify the university of no-contact terminations, but ISSS regularly monitors SEVIS immigration status of students and scholars. When a status is terminated for any reason, by either a federal agency or the school, ISSS directly communicates with the individual to provide details and options specific to the individual’s unique situation.
When the university is made aware of a termination, ISSS will notify impacted individuals with information regarding their situation and provide support and guidance to address their situation. Neither ISSS nor the university has authority to reverse this termination.
What are the consequences of status termination?
Per federal law, nonimmigrant (F-1) students who fail to maintain status are not eligible for an additional period for departure and are no longer authorized for on-campus employment or curricular practical training. 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 whose status has been terminated are no longer authorized for Academic Training.
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. Students should work with their academic department to identify academic options.
Where can individuals who have been impacted by a termination receive support?
Status termination may be upsetting and disruptive, and impacted individuals may wish to seek resources.
- International Students and Scholar Services can provide support will communicate directly with individuals to provide specific details and options depending on the circumstances of the termination.
- Student Assistance: The Connie Frank CARE Center in the Dean of Students office helps individuals understand university policies and procedures, connect with campus resources, and provide support in times of distress. Visit the Connie Frank CARE Center website or call 217-333-0050 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Legal Advice: This process is complex and varies by individual circumstance. Impacted individuals should speak with a trusted immigration attorney who specializes in deportation/removal cases. Below are resources for immigration legal aid.
- List of deportation specialists in Illinois: AILA's Immigration Lawyer Search: Why choose an AILA lawyer?.
- Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights: https://www.icirr.org/
- SIAN (Springfield Immigrant Advocacy Network): https://www.facebook.com/SpringfieldImmigrant
- National Immigration Justice Center: https://immigrantjustice.org/
- Academic Support: Impacted individuals can reach out to their college, department, or academic advisor to explore academic options, which may include but not be limited to options for remote coursework completion.
- Mental Health Support: The University offers crisis, walk-in, and by appointment supportive services. Visit the Student Affairs Mental Health page for a list of campus mental health supports.
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.