As explained in an April 29 University Record article, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has reinstated Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) records for 14 enrolled University of Michigan students and 11 graduates whose SEVIS records had previously been terminated. These students and recent graduates once again have all the benefits of F-1 status, including the ability to remain in the United States and on-campus employment authorization or, for OPT students, OPT employment authorization.
The SEVIS record termination and subsequent re-activation were done by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) without notification to the university or to the students. Some student visas were also revoked. Since it is not clear whether or not visa revocations, which are issued by the Department of State, have also been reversed, the International Center is advising F-1 visa holders with reinstated SEVIS records to confirm with a U.S. consulate that their visa is still valid before returning to the U.S. if they are currently out of the country or if they plan international travel.
For all students:
- If you are concerned about a possible revocation of your visa, you can monitor the email you provided when you applied for your visa for notifications from your consulate. If you are notified that your visa has been revoked, be sure to inform the IC, since only the student will be notified, not the IC.
- The IC will continue to monitor all U-M students’ SEVIS records, but if you want, you can also log into M-Passport from time to time and check your SEVIS Status. If your SEVIS Status is Active or Initial, then your SEVIS record is valid.
Recognizing that this has been an extremely difficult and challenging time for these students, and for international students in general, the International Center would like to remind students of campus resources, which will continue to be available throughout the summer:
- Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is available to help you find support during this stressful time
- Wolverine Wellness offers students wellness coaching, including a new coaching program focused on wellness in uncertain times.
- The Dean of Students Office is also available to individually support students and help manage any disruptions to their Michigan experience.
- Students can contact Student Legal Services (734-763-9920) to connect with an outside immigration attorney for a free consultation.
As always, advising is available from the International Center, and U-M visa holders can continue to find resources on the International Center’s website.
Finally, please also remember that the IC is here to serve the international population and U-M departments and schools. We will continue to monitor and inform the community of any specific and relevant changes in policies or regulations. You are a valued part of the U-M community and we are glad you are here!