US Student Visa Crisis? SEVIS Rules & Legal Tips Explained
In recent news, Indian students in the US are facing uncertainty as their student visas are being revoked and SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) records terminated. The situation has left many current and incoming students concerned, and rightly so. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has enforced a deadline under the Alien Registration Act for all foreign nationals staying over 30 days in the US. In this blog post, we will delve into the SEVIS rules and provide legal tips to help Indian students avoid visa issues and maintain a valid immigration status.
What is SEVIS?
Before we dive into the crisis, let’s understand what SEVIS is. SEVIS is an online system managed by the US Department of State and the US Department of Homeland Security. It is designed to track the status of non-immigrant students, exchange visitors, and their dependents in the US. SEVIS is used to monitor student enrollment, employment, and changes in student status, ensuring that foreign nationals comply with the terms of their visas.
SEVIS Rules and Deadlines
The DHS has enforced a deadline for all foreign nationals staying over 30 days in the US. According to the Alien Registration Act, all foreign nationals must register with the DHS within 30 days of their arrival in the US. Failure to comply with this deadline can result in severe consequences, including visa revocation and termination of SEVIS records.
Consequences of SEVIS Non-Compliance
Non-compliance with SEVIS rules can have severe consequences for Indian students in the US. Some of the consequences include:
- Visa revocation: If your SEVIS record is terminated, your student visa may be revoked, and you may be required to leave the US immediately.
- Termination of SEVIS record: SEVIS records can be terminated if you fail to comply with the deadline or if your school or program sponsor terminates your record.
- Loss of F-1 status: Non-compliance with SEVIS rules can lead to the loss of your F-1 student status, making it difficult to maintain a valid immigration status in the US.
- Deportation: In extreme cases, failure to comply with SEVIS rules can lead to deportation from the US.
Legal Tips to Avoid Visa Issues
To avoid visa issues and maintain a valid immigration status, Indian students in the US must comply with SEVIS rules and deadlines. Here are some legal tips to help you navigate the process:
- Register with SEVIS within 30 days: Make sure to register with SEVIS within 30 days of your arrival in the US. Failure to do so can result in severe consequences.
- Maintain valid immigration status: Ensure that you maintain a valid immigration status in the US. This includes complying with SEVIS rules, reporting any changes in your status, and avoiding unauthorized employment.
- Keep accurate records: Keep accurate records of your enrollment, employment, and changes in your status. This includes keeping a copy of your I-20 form, visa application, and SEVIS registration.
- Consult with an immigration attorney: If you are unsure about SEVIS rules or have questions about maintaining a valid immigration status, consult with an immigration attorney. They can provide you with personalized legal advice and guidance.
- Stay informed: Stay informed about SEVIS rules, deadlines, and changes in immigration policies. This includes following official government websites, social media, and immigration news outlets.
Conclusion
The SEVIS crisis has left many Indian students in the US concerned about their immigration status. However, by understanding SEVIS rules and complying with deadlines, Indian students can avoid visa issues and maintain a valid immigration status. Remember to register with SEVIS within 30 days, maintain valid immigration status, keep accurate records, consult with an immigration attorney, and stay informed. By following these legal tips, Indian students can navigate the SEVIS crisis and continue their studies in the US.
News Source:
https://youtu.be/rFc9JCg2IWA
