US student Visa crisis? SEVIS rules & legal tips explained

US Student Visa Crisis? SEVIS Rules & Legal Tips Explained

The United States has long been a popular destination for international students seeking higher education. However, recent developments have left many Indian students in a state of uncertainty regarding their student visas and immigration status. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has enforced a deadline under the Alien Registration Act, requiring all foreign nationals staying in the US for over 30 days to register and maintain valid immigration status. In this blog post, we will delve into the SEVIS rules and provide legal tips to help students navigate this crisis and avoid any potential issues with their visas.

What is SEVIS?

SEVIS stands for Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, a web-based system used by the US Department of Homeland Security to track and monitor international students, exchange visitors, and their dependents. SEVIS is a critical component of the student visa process, ensuring that students comply with immigration regulations and maintain valid status while studying in the US.

SEVIS Rules for Indian Students

Indian students pursuing higher education in the US must comply with SEVIS rules to maintain valid immigration status. Here are some key requirements:

1. Initial Registration: Upon arrival in the US, students must register with SEVIS within 30 days of their program start date. This initial registration is crucial, as it establishes the student’s presence in the US and their intention to pursue a specific course of study.
2. Program End Date: Students must depart the US within 60 days of their program end date or enroll in a new program to maintain valid status.
3. Address Update: Students must update their address with SEVIS within 10 days of any change.
4. Employment Authorization: Students may be eligible for part-time employment or internships, but must obtain authorization from their designated school official (DSO) and maintain valid immigration status.
5. Visa Expiration: Students must ensure their visa does not expire during their stay in the US. If the visa expires, the student may need to apply for a visa renewal or risk losing their immigration status.

Legal Tips for Indian Students

To avoid any potential issues with their visas and maintain valid immigration status, Indian students should follow these legal tips:

1. Consult with a Designated School Official (DSO): Students should consult with their DSO at their host university to ensure compliance with SEVIS rules and to address any concerns or questions.
2. Maintain Accurate Records: Students should keep accurate records of their program details, including start and end dates, and any changes to their address or employment status.
3. Register with SEVIS: Students must register with SEVIS within the required timeframe to avoid any issues with their immigration status.
4. Comply with Program Requirements: Students must comply with their program requirements, including attending classes, maintaining a minimum GPA, and making satisfactory progress towards their degree.
5. Seek Legal Advice: If students are unsure about their visa status or have concerns about their immigration status, they should seek legal advice from an experienced immigration attorney.

Recent Developments and Concerns

Recent news reports have highlighted concerns among Indian students regarding the revocation of student visas and the termination of SEVIS records. The DHS has enforced a deadline under the Alien Registration Act, requiring all foreign nationals staying in the US for over 30 days to register and maintain valid immigration status. This has led to uncertainty among current and incoming students, with many wondering what steps to take to avoid visa issues and maintain their immigration status.

Conclusion

The US student visa crisis has left many Indian students in a state of uncertainty, with concerns about their immigration status and compliance with SEVIS rules. By understanding the SEVIS rules and following legal tips, students can avoid any potential issues with their visas and ensure a smooth and successful studying experience in the US. It is essential for students to consult with their DSO, maintain accurate records, and comply with program requirements to maintain valid immigration status.

News Source:
https://youtu.be/rFc9JCg2IWA