US Student Visa Crisis? SEVIS Rules & Legal Tips Explained
In recent times, Indian students in the United States have been facing uncertainty and anxiety due to the revocation of their student visas and termination of their SEVIS records. The situation has become even more alarming with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) enforcing a deadline under the Alien Registration Act for all foreign nationals staying in the US for over 30 days. This has led to concerns among both current and incoming students, with legal experts urging timely registration and compliance to avoid visa issues and maintain valid immigration status.
What is SEVIS?
Before delving into the crisis, it’s essential to understand what SEVIS stands for. SEVIS is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, a database managed by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that tracks the arrival and departure of foreign students and exchange visitors in the United States. SEVIS is used to monitor the immigration status of foreign nationals and ensure compliance with US immigration laws.
New Deadline Enforced by DHS
As of March 2023, the DHS has enforced a new deadline under the Alien Registration Act, requiring all foreign nationals who have stayed in the US for more than 30 days to register with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This deadline applies to all foreign nationals, including students, who have been in the US for over 30 days. Failure to comply with this deadline can result in severe consequences, including the revocation of student visas and termination of SEVIS records.
Consequences of SEVIS Termination
The termination of SEVIS records can have devastating consequences for Indian students in the US. Some of the most significant consequences include:
- Revocation of student visas: Students who have their SEVIS records terminated may have their student visas revoked, forcing them to leave the US immediately.
- Loss of immigration status: Termination of SEVIS records can result in the loss of immigration status, making it difficult for students to maintain their legal status in the US.
- Difficulty in re-entering the US: Students who have their SEVIS records terminated may face difficulty re-entering the US, as they may be considered out of status and subject to deportation.
Legal Tips to Avoid Visa Issues
To avoid visa issues and maintain valid immigration status, Indian students in the US must take timely action to register with SEVIS and comply with the new deadline. Here are some legal tips to keep in mind:
- Timely registration: Students must register with SEVIS and update their records within the specified deadline.
- Accurate information: Students must ensure that their SEVIS records contain accurate and updated information, including their address, phone number, and email address.
- Compliance with USCIS regulations: Students must comply with USCIS regulations and requirements, including maintaining valid immigration status and reporting any changes to their immigration status.
- Seek legal advice: Students who are unsure about their immigration status or have questions about SEVIS rules and regulations should seek legal advice from an experienced immigration lawyer.
What Can Indian Students Do to Mitigate the Crisis?
Indian students in the US can take the following steps to mitigate the crisis:
- Check SEVIS records: Students must check their SEVIS records to ensure that they are up-to-date and accurate.
- Update information: Students must update their SEVIS records with any changes to their address, phone number, or email address.
- Register with USCIS: Students must register with USCIS and comply with the new deadline to avoid visa issues.
- Seek legal advice: Students who are unsure about their immigration status or have questions about SEVIS rules and regulations should seek legal advice from an experienced immigration lawyer.
Conclusion
The SEVIS rules and regulations can be complex and overwhelming, especially for Indian students who are already navigating the challenges of studying in a foreign country. However, by understanding the new deadline enforced by the DHS and taking timely action to register with SEVIS and comply with USCIS regulations, Indian students can avoid visa issues and maintain valid immigration status. It’s essential for students to seek legal advice and stay informed about the latest developments in SEVIS rules and regulations to ensure a smooth and successful experience in the US.
News Source:
