Recent Updates

March 18, 2025: Reports of Travel Ban

As of March 14, 2025, some news sources (New York Times (subscription required) and Newsweek (no cost)) report that the Trump Administration is considering an executive order banning travelers from certain countries from entering the United States. Travel bans generally prevent individuals from entering the U.S., even if they have valid visas, unless the travel ban explicitly allows for exceptions or waivers.

The media reports indicate that as many as 43 countries may be affected, following a three-tiered system that ranges from immediate bans on all travelers (red tier), bans on certain travelers (orange tier), and possible bans within 60 days depending on the listed country addressing specific actions (yellow tier). 

SISS is actively monitoring this and will post official details once they are available. No definitive list or guidelines have been published by the White House, and though we expect an official announcement in the near future, no exact date has been determined.

Until an official announcement is made, students and scholars from countries potentially included in an imminent travel ban should consider the necessity of any international travel outside of the U.S. In the event a ban is announced, your ability to return to the U.S. to continue employment or study may be restricted or compromised.

University of California Guidance

• With numerous, quickly evolving federal policy shifts underway, the University of California is working diligently to monitor these developments and seek clarity on a range of issues.
  • Read UC's Federal Updates
• Updated resources about possible federal immigration enforcement actions on university property:
  • FAQs for UC employees: Handling inquiries about international employees
  • Read and download the "Know Your Rights if Approached by Immigration Enforcement Agents" card