US student Visa crisis? SEVIS rules & legal tips explained

US Student Visa Crisis? SEVIS Rules & Legal Tips Explained

Recently, Indian students in the US have been facing uncertainty as student visas are being revoked and SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) records are being terminated. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has enforced a deadline under the Alien Registration Act for all foreign nationals staying over 30 days. With concerns rising among current and incoming students, legal experts urge timely registration and compliance to avoid visa issues and maintain valid immigration status.

In this blog post, we will delve into the SEVIS rules and provide legal tips to help Indian students navigate the US student visa crisis.

What is SEVIS?

SEVIS is an online system managed by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs and the US Department of Homeland Security’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Its primary purpose is to track foreign students and exchange visitors in the US, ensuring they comply with federal regulations and maintain valid immigration status.

SEVIS Rules and Requirements

To maintain valid immigration status, foreign students and exchange visitors must comply with the following SEVIS rules and requirements:

1. Initial Enrollment: Upon arrival in the US, students must enroll in a program approved by SEVP and report to their designated school official (DSO).
2. SEVIS Registration: Students must register with SEVIS within 30 days of their program start date and provide accurate information, including their name, date of birth, and biographical information.
3. Program Completion: Students must complete their program within the designated timeframe and notify their DSO of their completion.
4. Program Transfer: If a student transfers to a new school, they must update their SEVIS record within 21 days of the transfer.
5. Address Updates: Students must notify their DSO of any changes to their address within 10 days.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with SEVIS rules and requirements can result in severe consequences, including:

1. SEVIS Termination: Non-compliance can lead to SEVIS termination, rendering the student’s visa invalid and potentially resulting in deportation.
2. Visa Revocation: The US Department of State can revoke a student’s visa, denying them the opportunity to continue their studies in the US.
3. Immigration Status Revocation: Non-compliance can also lead to the revocation of a student’s immigration status, making them ineligible for future student visas.

Legal Tips to Avoid Visa Issues and Maintain Valid Immigration Status

To avoid visa issues and maintain valid immigration status, Indian students in the US should:

1. Register with SEVIS: Ensure timely registration with SEVIS within 30 days of program start date.
2. Keep Accurate Records: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including program completion dates, address updates, and any changes to their student status.
3. Notify DSO of Changes: Inform their DSO of any changes to their program, address, or student status within the designated timeframe.
4. Seek Professional Advice: Consult with a qualified immigration attorney if unsure about any aspect of the SEVIS registration process or immigration status.
5. Stay Informed: Regularly check the SEVP website and other reliable sources for updates on SEVIS rules and regulations.

Conclusion

The US student visa crisis has left many Indian students in the US facing uncertainty and concern. It is essential for students to understand the SEVIS rules and requirements to avoid visa issues and maintain valid immigration status. By registering with SEVIS, keeping accurate records, notifying DSO of changes, seeking professional advice, and staying informed, Indian students can navigate the US student visa crisis and successfully complete their studies in the US.

Source: https://youtu.be/rFc9JCg2IWA