SISS is here to provide information and support to international students and scholars during these uncertain times. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the federal immigration enforcement actions described in Chancellor May’s message. 

• Chancellor May’s message refers to the termination of eligibility for student visa holders. What eligibility is being terminated?
• Since the end of March, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has terminated the  SEVIS records of a number of F-1 international students at institutions across the United States. SEVIS is a federal database system used to manage the eligibility of international students to apply for student visas, enter the U.S. using their visas, and stay in the U.S. in lawful status while studying and receiving practical training. Eligibility for these actions requires a valid SEVIS record, and termination of the SEVIS record removes that eligibility. SEVIS only contains records relating to the F-1, J-1, and M-1 visa categories. No other visa types are included in SEVIS. UC Davis does not sponsor M-1 visas.
• Are other types of visa holders affected?

• At this time, the primary population affected appears to be F-1 student visa holders. SISS monitors all of our records on a daily basis in case of new developments.

• Why are SEVIS records being terminated? 

• Many recent SEVIS terminations are attributable to the student having a prior criminal charge or infraction. Significant encounters with law enforcement, including but not limited to DUI (driving under the influence), felony assault, firearms, marijuana and drugs, or situations related to political protest, may have immigration consequences, such as the termination of your SEVIS record. Students should carefully consider participation in political protests. At this time, a comprehensive list of what is causing these terminations has not been made available, or confirmed, by DHS or any authoritative source.

• Is the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) notifying students that their SEVIS records are being terminated?

• While there are reports that DHS is notifying students that their records are being terminated, this does not appear to be happening consistently. Schools are similarly not being notified. However, international offices like SISS can access SEVIS records and detect when DHS has terminated a record. 

• How can I confirm that DHS has terminated my SEVIS record?

• Contact SISS to confirm your record. Unfortunately, at times like this, students are sometimes the target of scams. SISS can always verify the status of your SEVIS record.  

• What does SISS do if a student’s SEVIS record is terminated?
• When SISS identifies that DHS has terminated a record, we review the student’s record to confirm what has occurred. We then contact the student directly to inform them of what happened, and meet with them individually to discuss the situation in greater detail and connect them to appropriate resources.
• Does a SEVIS record termination mean the student must leave the U.S. immediately?

• While the student may decide to depart the U.S. immediately, consider obtaining legal advice and guidance before making a decision. 

• Does SISS offer legal assistance?

• No. SISS is not qualified to offer legal assistance to any student impacted. However, we can connect students to legal resources such as immigration attorneys.

• If DHS terminates my SEVIS record, does this mean that my admission to UC Davis or my UC Davis degree will be withdrawn?

• No. Immigration actions taken by DHS are distinct from your academic status. If your SEVIS record is terminated, UC Davis would not be required under law or policy to withdraw your standing as a UC Davis student or alum. If you are in this situation, in addition to working with your SISS advisor, we encourage you to work with your academic advisor to understand your options. 

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