SEVIS Terminated? [Urgent Resources]

The Trump Administration's Cancellation of International Student Visas

The recent decision by the Trump administration to cancel over 300 international student visas has raised significant concerns across the nation. This action, which includes the revocation of at least nine visas at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), has left many students and educational institutions in a state of uncertainty.

In the past, the US Department of State would usually only cancel a student visa if the student was arrested or found guilty of a crime in the US. However, it seems that federal agencies might now be using other information sources, like US immigration history or social media activity, to revoke visas of students they believe are involved in student activism or might be a risk to US national security. Normally, the Department of State would inform the visa holder directly, but not the school.

ICE SEVIS Terminations Without Warning

In recent days, we've noticed a worrisome trend where the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) have begun canceling student records in SEVIS without any prior notification.

Because of the complicated regulations and the unprecedented nature of these SEVP/ICE terminations, along with the unclear reasons behind them and the uniqueness of each student's situation, it's important for students to consult with an immigration attorney who specializes in deportation defense.

What Happens When My SEVIS Is Terminated?

The Terminate a Student page on the SEVIS Help Hub provides a comprehensive guide on the procedures and implications when an F-1 SEVIS record is terminated.

• The student loses all employment authorization (including on-campus employment and off-campus CPT, OPT and STEM OPT).
• The student cannot re-enter the United States on the terminated SEVIS record.
• Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents may investigate to confirm the departure of the student.
• Any associated F-2 dependent records are terminated.

On the verge of SEVIS Termination

If you find yourself on the verge of SEVIS termination, don't panic! It's crucial to take immediate action and reach out to your designated school official (DSO) to discuss your situation. They can provide guidance on the necessary steps to resolve any issues and help you understand your options. Remember, maintaining open communication and staying informed about your status can make a significant difference.

Many schools like Duke are hosting forums Monday night to address student concerns related to SEVIS termination.  Additionally, consider seeking advice from an immigration attorney if you feel overwhelmed. They can offer valuable insights and support to ensure you stay on track with your student visa requirements.

Grace period for SEVIS Termination

Once a termination occurs due to a “violation of status,” there isn’t a grace period. If you and your dependents are still in the U.S., you’ll need to either apply for reinstatement or make arrangements to leave the country right away. Additionally, regulations mention that any nonimmigrant who hasn’t maintained their status or complied with its conditions may face deportation.

Reinstatement after SEVIS Terminated

Sure, technically you can submit Form I-539 to USCIS to request reinstatement. It's a slow process (it can take months), there's no option for premium processing, and it's completely up to their discretion. We're not saying you shouldn't give it a shot—just don't rely on it to resolve your status quickly.

Urgent Help if SEVIS Is Terminated

Brad Banias, a former Department of Justice attorney and current advocate for immigrants' rights, alongside Steven Brown's team at Reddy Neumann Brown, is collaborating with Pro Se Pro to introduce a novel legal strategy. This strategy involves filing individual lawsuits in federal court.

The lawsuits will contend that SEVIS terminations:

• Contravene immigration law and ICE's own regulations,
• Deprive students of due process as guaranteed by the Constitution, and
• Are being utilized as a political expedient to expel students whom ICE cannot deport through conventional methods.

The objective is to file a lawsuit accompanied by an emergency motion, known as a 'temporary restraining order,' to promptly reinstate the SEVIS record. Certain cases may receive a ruling in as little as two weeks.

For People Who's SEVIS Got Terminated

If you find yourself in a position with a SEVIS terminated, we are here to help.  Pro Se Pro provides you with everything you need to file a lawsuit and injunction to protect yourself from deportation.  Our walkthroughs, templates and strategies are based on immigration attorneys that specialize in SEVIS termination for F1 visa holders.

Please contact us at (229) 304-3058 or visit our website to act now on your terminated SEVIS.  

Pro Se Pro has helped thousands of immigrants file pro se against the government and our track record speaks for itself.  If an attorney is cost prohibitive or you prefer to be in control, our company collaborates with the most experienced professionals in the space to bring you accessible, effective strategies that get results.

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