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? 
• We do not have published guidance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that explains how they are selecting students for termination. However, based on national data being collected through different sources, many students whose records have been terminated appear to have had some prior interaction with their state law enforcement for various reasons, such as charges or citations relating to driving (DUI, driving with a suspended license, reckless driving, etc.), or other misdemeanors such as theft or domestic disputes involving the police. While felonies such as aggravated assault, illegal firearms possession, marijuana and drugs can lead to serious immigration consequences, we have no information at this time these are the sole or predominant factors for selection.
• Is political activity or protest the reason why records are being terminated?
• Involvement in political activity and protest may lead to serious immigration consequences, including possible visa revocations. Students should consider involvement in protest carefully. However, we have no indication at this time that has been a factor for the SEVIS terminations discussed in the Chancellor’s message.
• 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.

• Does SISS share information about terminations with anyone?
• Data about terminations is treated sensitively to ensure that the privacy of impacted students is protected. As a rule, only SISS and a limited number of personnel (including academic advisors, Campus Counsel, and/or supervisors and PIs) are aware. SISS may also share aggregate, non-personally identifiable information with the University of California system as well as professional associations to facilitate state and national tracking efforts.
• 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. 
  
  However, SEVIS termination would impact your eligibility to be employed. Any student whose record is terminated must notify their on-campus employer immediately and terminate their employment. 

• What guidance is available for UC Davis employees if approached by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to provide information about a student, employee, or patient? 

• As a UC Davis employee, you are required by federal law and university policy to maintain the confidentiality of personal and personally identifiable information. Faculty and staff have asked what to do if they are approached by a federal immigration officer seeking personally identifiable information about a student, employee, or patient. Campus counsel recommends the following actions to ensure you comply with privacy laws and university policies:

  1. Inform the agent that you are not obstructing their process and you need to consult with campus counsel.

  2. Ask for the agent’s name, ID number, agency affiliation, and business card.

  3. Ask to take a photo of the warrant or subpoena so you can provide it to campus counsel.

  4. Call Campus Counsel at 530-754-7111 or UC Davis Health Counsel at 916-734-2288.

  5. Call UC Davis Police at 530-752-1727.
  
  Note: This information and more can be found in the University of California's FAQs for UC employees: Handling inquiries about international employees.

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