Federal Government Updates for International Students and Scholars

Recent Updates

May 24, 2026: Changes to Green Card Adjustment of Status Process

On Friday, May 22, 2026, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced changes to the green card adjustment of status process. This policy states that aliens seeking adjustment of status must do so through consular processing via the Department of State outside of the country. 

SISS closely monitors immigration policies and shares relevant information as it becomes available. SISS advisors remain available to provide guidance and support. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. 

May 19, 2026: Temporary Pause of Visa Operations in Three African Countries

April 17, 2026: Proposed U.S. Department of Labor Rule

The U.S. Department of Labor has introduced a proposed rule, “Improving Wage Protections for the Temporary and Permanent Employment of Certain Foreign Nationals in the United States,” published on March 27, 2026. The proposal seeks to adjust prevailing wage thresholds for employers sponsoring foreign nationals under H-1B, H-1B1, E-3, and PERM programs, particularly for non-represented positions using Occupational and Employment Wage Statistics (OEWS) data.

If finalized, these changes could have significant financial implications for sponsoring employers across industries—including universities and nonprofit research institutions classified as H-1B cap-exempt. Possible wage impacts could vary based on job role, classification, and location, and overall thresholds for non-represented positions may increase.

The public may submit comments on the proposed rule through May 26, 2026. While there is no official timeline for when the final rule will be released, after the comment period closes, the Department of Labor will review feedback before issuing a final rule, which would take effect 30 days after publication.

SISS will continue to monitor this and other situations and share other relevant information as it becomes available. Please contact an SISS advisor if you have questions.

February 24, 2026: An Update on the Pause in Benefit Applications for Individuals from Certain Countries

Background on this Policy Change

According to a policy memo from the United States Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS), USCIS pauses benefit applications submitted for individuals from 39 countries listed in the Presidential Proclamation 10998 dated December 16, 2025, and re-reviews approved benefits requests for those from countries listed in PP 10998 that were approved on or after Jan. 20, 2021.

On January 1, 2026, USCIS issued a policy memo building upon the agency’s December 2, 2025, policy memo that expanded the pause on all pending benefit requests, submitted by or for individuals from the restricted countries listed in the December 16, 2025, Presidential Proclamation 10998. 

The pause will remain in effect until further notice.

The January 1, 2026, policy memo also requires USCIS to conduct a comprehensive re-review of approved benefit requests approved on or after January 20, 2021, for individuals from countries restricted by Presidential Proclamation 10998. As part of this re-review, affected individuals may receive requests for additional interviews, documentation, or further background checks.

Updated Impact of The Policy on International Students and Scholars

The policy is expected to delay processing of USCIS benefits applications for individuals who were born in or are citizens of one of the countries restricted by Presidential Proclamation 10998, even if the individual holds dual citizenship with a country that is not on the restricted list. Examples of potentially impacted applications include Optional Practical Training (Form I-765), change-of-status (Form I-539), and permanent residency or adjustment-of-status (Form I-485), among others.

Requests handled directly by university DSOs, such as Curricular Practical Training or Form I-20 F-1 extensions, are not affected by this policy.

SISS will continue to monitor this and other situations and share other relevant information as it becomes available. Please contact an SISS advisor if you have questions.

January 15, 2026: Pause of Immigrant Visa Processing for Individuals from Certain Countries 

The United States Department of State announced it will pause the issuance of immigrant visas for individuals from certain countries beginning on January 21, 2026. 

There are two important takeaways from this announcement that we want you to keep in mind:

• This does not revoke issued visas.
• This does not impact non-immigrant visas, including F student visas, J exchange visitor visas, H-1B work visas, TN, O-1 or B tourist or business visas. 

The pause impacts immigrant visa processing for individuals from the following countries:

Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Burma, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Colombia, Cote d’Ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, The Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyz Republic, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, and Yemen 

We understand this news can create confusion and concern. We do not anticipate an impact on those in the UC Davis community who currently hold non-immigrant visas. 

SISS will continue to monitor this and other situations and share other relevant information as it becomes available. Please contact an SISS advisor if you have questions.

December 17, 2025: Travel Ban for Additional Countries Goes Into Effect on January 1, 2026

On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, the White House issued a Presidential Proclamation and accompanying Fact Sheet that announced additional restrictions on nationals from certain countries from entering the United States. This “travel ban” begins at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, January 1, 2026.

For individuals affected by the ban who are currently outside the United States, SISS highly recommends returning to the U.S. before January 1, 2026, to minimize the risk of complications at the port of entry once the updated ban takes effect on January 1, 2026.

Countries with Full Restrictions

Impacts all students and scholars from these countries on all visa types. Find more information about these countries and their restrictions in our Frequently Asked Questions section in this announcement. 

Countries with Partial Restrictions

Impacts immigrant and non-immigrant travelers seeking admission under the B-1/B-2, F-1/F-2, J-1/J-2 and M-1/M-2 visa categories from the countries below. Find more information about these countries and their restrictions in our Frequently Asked Questions section in this announcement. 

*Restrictions on B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visa types will be removed on the effective date. Immigrant visa types remain subject to the restriction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please see below for frequently asked questions to provide you with more information. 

• Which countries are included in the travel ban?

• There are two sets of countries included in this proclamation, including a ‘full’ suspension for 12 countries and a ‘partial’ suspension for seven other countries.

  The ‘full’ travel ban continues to restrict the entry of nationals from: Afghanistan, Burma/Myanmar, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. It now extends to Burkina Faso, Laos, Mali, Niger, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, and Syria. Additionally, the full restriction applies to individuals using travel document issued or endorsed by the Palestinian Authority (PA).

  The ‘partial’ ban continues to restrict and limit the entry of immigrants and non-immigrants under the B-1/B-2, F-1/F-2, J-1/J-2 and M-1/M-2 visa categories from the following countries: Burundi, Cuba, Togo, and Venezuela. The partial restriction and limitation on the entry of nationals of Turkmenistan has been modified. The suspension of entry of nationals from Turkmenistan as non-immigrants on B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas is lifted. Because some concerns remain, the entry into the United States of nationals of Turkmenistan as immigrants remains suspended.

  Additionally, the  ‘partial’ ban extends to restrict and limit the entry of immigrants and non-immigrants from the following countries: Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Cote d’Ivoire, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Tonga, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. 

  The above list is not necessarily final, and countries can be added or removed at any time in the future. 

• Are there exceptions to this ban?
• Section 6 of the Presidential Proclamation discusses the scope and limitations of the proclamation. Of note, the proclamation indicates that entry restrictions apply only to persons outside the U.S. who do not already have a valid visa on the effective date of the proclamation (January 1, 2026). It does not apply to those with valid immigrant or nonimmigrant visas who are already in the United States on January 1. In addition, the proclamation provides exceptions to persons who already have lawful permanent resident status (‘green card’ holders) and dual nationals who hold passports from non-designated countries, among other exceptions. Please read Section 6 for other types of exceptions.
• Does the ban impact the status of students and scholars already in the U.S.?
• No. The ban only affects the ability of certain nationals from the listed countries to enter the U.S. It does not impact the ability of those already lawfully inside the U.S. to remain and continue their activities as long as they continue to comply with the terms of their visas.
• Does the proclamation revoke the visas of those from one of the affected countries?
• No. The proclamation explicitly states that it does NOT revoke the validity of any existing visas. While visas may be revoked on other grounds, and at the discretion of the Secretary of State, this proclamation does not constitute a general revocation of visas for citizens from the designated countries.
• What are travel recommendations for any student or scholar from a designated country?

• Travel for those students and scholars from the designated countries who are already in the U.S. is not recommended, especially if you do not have a valid visa for re-entry. Even if you already have a valid visa, we strongly caution against travel until more information is available on how U.S. Customs and Border Protection will implement the entry restrictions.

  Those persons from a designated country who are outside the U.S. and who do not have a valid visa for entry into the U.S. may be unable to enter as planned until the travel restrictions included in this proclamation are modified by the government.

This is a developing situation, and we will continue to make updates when additional information becomes available. Please note that this is general information and not legal advice. Contact Services for International Students and Scholars at [email protected] if you have questions.

SISS will continue to advocate for international students and scholars and their importance to our UC Davis community and mission. Please check back with SISS on our website and updates page as this situation continues to unfold.

December 10, 2025: Hold and Review of all Pending Asylum Applications and all USCIS Benefit Applications Filed by Aliens from High-Risk Countries

On December 2, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued Policy Memorandum titled “Hold and Review of all Pending Asylum Applications and all USCIS Benefit Applications Filed by Aliens from High-Risk Countries.”

This hold means that many individuals’ requests will be reviewed again. Please note that as part of this additional review process, an interview may be required, even if you have already been interviewed. The hold may delay some seeking USCIS benefits, including OPT/STEM OPT and change-of-status applications.

In the memo, USCIS says the hold allows the agency to “fully assess all national security and public safety threats along with any other related grounds of inadmissibility or ineligibility.  The memo indicates that within 90 days of issuance, USCIS will prioritize a list for review, interview, re-interview, and referral to other agencies as needed.”

Not all students will be impacted by this announcement. Below, please find a list of the criteria subject to a re-review, as of December 2, 2025:

• Form I-589 Applications for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal: All applicants from all countries.
• Benefit requests, which may include OPT/STEM OPT and change of status:
  • Current applicants: Applicants from countries included in Presidential Proclamation 10949 are included in the re-review.
  • Those already receiving benefits: Additional comprehensive review of approved benefits for individuals from countries included in Presidential Proclamation 10949 who entered the United States on or after January 20, 2021.
  • Applicants whose country of birth or citizenship is included in the proclamation include: Afghanistan, Myanmar (Burma), Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.
  • Please see that proclamation for more details and a full list of countries.

Please understand that this new policy may impact applicants with pending or approved USCIS benefits, which may include OPT/STEM OPT and change of status applications. The policy memo states, “The memo indicates that within 90 days of issuance, USCIS will prioritize a list for review, interview, re-interview, and referral…” to agencies as it deems appropriate.

November 19, 2025: Interim Final Rule re: Employment Authorization Documents

A new interim final rule published by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), effective October 30, 2025, eliminates the 540-day automatic extension of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for individuals who file EAD renewal applications in certain categories. The new provision now provides that, except where “otherwise provided by law,” the filing of an EAD renewal application will no longer automatically extend either the EAD or the underlying work authorization. The interim final rule does not affect EAD renewal applications that were filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before October 30, 2025.

As stated in the posted FAQ, this rule change does not apply to STEM OPT renewals filed on behalf of F-1 visa holders, since those renewals are addressed by a different provision of law, and does not apply to individuals applying for renewal of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) where an automatic extension is provided through a notice in the Federal Register.

It is our understanding that there is no change in the separate 240-day automatic extension provision that extends the work authorization for H-1B, E-3, O-1 and TNs while a timely filed extension petition is pending with USCIS.

Frequently Asked Questions, from the University of California Office of the President

View Printable PDF of the FAQs

• What is an EAD?
• EAD is the Employment Authorization Document, Form I-766, issued by U.S. Customs and Immigration Services. An EAD is one way for non-citizens to prove that they are authorized to work in the United States for a specific time period. Individuals in many different visa statuses may be eligible for an EAD; however, individuals in some visa statuses – including H-1B – are not required to obtain an EAD in order to be authorized to work, because their visa status itself provides work authorization. EADs have expiration dates, and individuals may not work after the expiration date.
• What has changed?

• On October 30, 2025, the U.S. Customs and Immigration Service issued an interim final rule that eliminated automatic extensions for some EADs.

  Before this rule was issued, individuals in certain employment authorization categories were eligible for an automatic extension of up to 540 days of their work authorization if they timely filed a renewal application, pending adjudication of their application.

  The extensions were put in place to address lapses in work authorization created by processing delays.

• Can any EAD expiration dates be extended?
• Yes. Although most EAD expiration dates will no longer be extended automatically, there are exceptions provided by law or through a Federal Register notice for Temporary Protected Status-related employment documentation.
• What renewals are impacted by the new rule?

• This new rule affects most individuals who file to renew their EAD on or after October 30, 2025. The interim final rule does not affect EADs automatically extended before Oct. 30, 2025.

  However, this rule change does not apply to STEM OPT renewals filed on behalf of F-1 visa holders, since those renewals are addressed by a different provision of law, and does not apply to individuals applying for renewal of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) where an automatic extension is provided through a notice in the Federal Register. There are other exceptions, so it is important to review the category on an individual’s EAD to determine whether there is an applicable extension.

• How can I confirm when an EAD renewal request was filed?
• You should reference the Received Date located on the Form I-797C, Notice of Action. If the employee filed to renew their EAD on or after October 30, 2025, the employee will no longer receive an automatic extension of their EAD. The interim final rule does not affect EADs automatically extended before October 30, 2025.
• What should employees do?
• With this new rule, it becomes even more important for individuals to monitor their EAD expiration date, and to submit a renewal application as close as possible to 180 days before the expiration of their EAD. With the federal government shutdown and the slowdown associated with processing time even if the shutdown ends, there may be additional delays so employees are advised to act sooner than the 180 days.
• What will happen to an employee if their EAD expires?
• Employees who do not have their renewal applications approved by the time their EAD expires will be placed on leave without pay due to an expired work authorization while waiting for their new EAD card. The longer an employee waits to file an EAD renewal application, the more likely it is that they may experience a temporary lapse in their employment authorization or documentation.

October 22, 2025: Updated Guidance Clarifies Some Details for H-1B Visa Holders 

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released updated guidance clarifying the implementation and impact of the Presidential Proclamation on the Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers. 

The guidance outlines which H-1B petitions are subject to the new $100,000 payment and how the payment is made.

According to the updated USCIS guidance, it appears that the $100,000 payment applies only to initial H-1B petitions filed and approved for consular notification (for Canadians: port of entry notification or pre-flight inspection) on or after September 21, 2025, for individuals outside the United States. Language appears to imply that requests for national interest exceptions can be made on an individual case basis.

H-1B petitions filed and approved on or after September 21, 2025 for a change of status (e.g. F-1 to H-1B), change of employer (port/transfer), an extension or amendment for individuals already in the U.S. are not subject to the new fee, even if the H-1B scholar later travels and applies for an H-1B visa abroad.

September 22, 2025: New FAQs About Restriction on Entry for H-1B Visa Holders 

The U.S. Department of State released a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the recent Presidential proclamation regarding entry for H-1B visa holders.

The FAQs include what the proclamation does and does not do. For example, it states that the proclamation "Requires a $100,000 payment to accompany any new H-1B visa petitions submitted after 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on September 21, 2025," and does not "Apply to any previously issued H-1B visas, or any petitions submitted prior to 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on September 21, 2025."

Please read the Department of State FAQs

Note: If you are a current or former UC Davis student with an approved or pending H-1B, please contact your employer for specific information regarding how the proclamation may impact you.

September 20, 2025: Proclamation, Restriction on Entry for H-1B Visa Holders 

Based on a presidential proclamation made September 19, 2025, the entry of H-1B workers currently outside of the United States will be subject to a $100,000 supplemental government fee or a national interest exemption to enter the country. (For more information, see accompanying fact sheet.) The restriction takes effect September 21, 2025, at 12:01 Eastern Time and is scheduled to remain in place for 12 months, unless extended.

September 20 memoranda from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have provided some clarifications on the scope of the Presidential Proclamation affecting H-1B visas.

According to their guidance:

• The proclamation applies only to H-1B petitions filed with USCIS after 12:01 AM ET on September 21, 2025, the effective date of the proclamation.

It does not apply to:

• The beneficiary of an H-1B petition that was filed with USCIS prior to the effective date of the proclamation.
• The beneficiary of a currently approved H-1B petition.
• An individual with a valid H-1B visa.

It was clarified that the proclamation does not restrict current H-1B visa holders from traveling abroad.

H-1B scholars currently abroad may re-enter the U.S. as usual with the required immigration documents; see our scholar travel webpage.

If you are a current or former UC Davis student with an approved or pending H-1B, please contact your employer for specific information regarding how the proclamation may impact you.

We will provide updates as additional information becomes available. If you have questions, please contact Services for International Students and Scholars at [email protected].

September 8, 2025: Nonimmigrant Visa Interviews Must be Scheduled in Country of Residence

August 28, 2025: Proposed Rule on Duration of Status

July 29, 2025: Changes to Visa Reciprocity

June 5, 2025: Travel Ban for Certain Countries Goes Into Effect on June 9, 2025

Updated on June 6, 2025, for clarity

On Wednesday, June 4, 2025, the White House issued a Presidential Proclamation and accompanying Fact Sheet that announced restrictions on nationals from certain countries from entering the United States. This “travel ban” begins at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on Monday, June 9, 2025.

Q: Which countries are included in the travel ban?

A: There are two sets of countries included in this proclamation, including a ‘full’ suspension for twelve countries and a ‘partial’ suspension for seven other countries.

The ‘full’ travel ban suspends the entry of immigrants and non-immigrants from the following countries:  Afghanistan, Burma/Myanmar, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. 

The ‘partial’ ban suspends the entry of immigrants and non-immigrants under the B-1/B-2, F-1/F-2, J-1/J-2 and M-1/M-2 visa categories from the following countries: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.

The above list is not necessarily final and countries can be added or removed at any time in the future. The proclamation specifically orders a review of security and vetting processes for Egypt, although it does not indicate when the review will be completed.

Q: Are there exceptions to this ban?

A: Section 4 of the Presidential Proclamation discusses the scope and limitations of the proclamation. Of note, the proclamation indicates that entry restrictions only apply to those persons who are outside of the U.S. and who do not already have a valid visa on the effective date of the proclamation. In addition, the proclamation provides exceptions to persons who already have lawful permanent resident status (‘green card’ holders) and dual nationals who hold passports with non-designated countries, among other exceptions. Please read Section 4 for other types of exceptions.

Q: Does the ban impact the status of students and scholars already in the U.S.?

A: No. The ban only affects the ability of certain nationals from the listed countries to enter the U.S. It does not impact the ability of those already lawfully inside the U.S. to remain and continue their activities as long as they continue to comply with the terms of their visas.

Q: Does the proclamation revoke the visas of those from one of the affected countries?

A: No. The proclamation explicitly states that it does NOT revoke the validity of any existing visas. While visas may be revoked on other grounds, and at the discretion of the Secretary of State, this proclamation does not constitute a general revocation of visas for citizens from the designated countries.

Q: What are travel recommendations for any student or scholar from a designated country?

A: Because this proclamation was only issued on June 4, international travel for those students and scholars from the 19 designated countries who are already in the U.S. is not recommended, especially if you do not have a valid visa for re-entry. Even if you already have a valid visa, we strongly caution against travel until more information can be obtained on how U.S. Customs and Border Protection will implement the entry restrictions.

Those persons from a designated country who are outside the U.S. and who do not have a valid visa for entry into the U.S. may be unable to enter as planned until the travel restrictions included in this proclamation are modified by the government.

This is a developing situation, and we will continue to make updates when additional information becomes available. Please note that this is general information and not legal advice. Contact Services for International Students and Scholars at [email protected] if you have questions.

SISS will continue to advocate for international students and scholars and their importance to our UC Davis community and mission. Please check back with SISS on our website and updates page as this situation continues to unfold.

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

Previous Updates

Below, and for reference only, are updates that are no longer current or relevant to UC Davis international students and scholars. Please see the top of the page for the current federal government updates. 

• October 1, 2025: Federal Government Shutdown

• On October 1, a federal government shutdown took effect. Except for the Department of Labor (please see below), we expect government agencies involved in visa/immigration processes to continue operating. 

  - Department of Labor (DOL) is halting processing and submission of Labor Condition Applications (LCA) in their database, which impacts some H-1B and E-3 petition filings. A certified LCA is required with petition submission to USCIS and there can be potential delays for cases where an LCA was not submitted to DOL before the shutdown.

      --Also impacted could be PERM Labor Certifications applications that support certain permanent residency petitions.

      --We anticipate upcoming DOL guidance about flexibility for employers with filing deadlines.

  - U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) remains operational as it is fee-funded.

  - U.S. Department of State (DOS) - Embassy Visa and 212(e) Waiver Processing: visa processing at embassies and two-year home residence 212(e) waiver processing continues as DOS is fee-funded.

  - U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) remains operational as border protection is deemed essential.

  We will provide updates as more information becomes available. Please contact [email protected] with any questions or concerns specific to your case.

• June 18, 2025: Student Visa Appointments Resuming

• According to news reports, on June 18, the U.S. Department of State announced that appointments for students and scholars applying for F and J visas will be allowed to resume. The Department of State also announced standards for enhanced review and vetting of social media accounts as a part of the visa application process. Students and scholars who have completed the DS-160 online visa application but were waiting for visa appointments are strongly encouraged to check the online visa scheduling system for visa appointment availability as soon as possible. 

  Please keep in mind that appointment availability may vary from consulate to consulate.

• May 29, 2025: Statement from U.S. Secretary of State Rubio About International Student Visas

• SISS was alerted yesterday to the statement by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the State Department’s intent to review and potentially revoke the visas of certain students from China. Like other institutions across the U.S., we are monitoring this situation very carefully. Secretary Rubio’s statement did not include any details regarding the scope, timing, or manner in which the directive might be implemented. We will provide updates as additional information becomes available. 

  If any student is contacted directly by a U.S. consulate about their visa, they should notify SISS with any details.

  SISS welcomes and supports all of our international students and continues to advocate for them as members of our UC Davis community. We encourage students to utilize campus resources, including Student Health and Counseling Services, for additional support.

• May 28, 2025: News Reports of F and J Visa Appointment Pauses at U.S. Consulates

• SISS is aware of news media reports (see e.g., Politico; Reuters) indicating that the U.S. State Department has instructed U.S. consulates to temporarily pause scheduling new visa appointments for F-1 and J-1 students and scholars.

  What’s happening:
  According to media reports, this pause is to give the government more time to expand its process for reviewing the social media accounts of F and J visa applicants. SISS wants to emphasize that this information is based on media reports, and we are actively monitoring this new and evolving situation.

  Based on initial reports, currently scheduled visa appointments can proceed. New appointment scheduling is paused and slots may not become available until permitted by the State Department. It is also possible that the pause may be implemented differently by different U.S. consulates. Visa applicants are advised to obtain guidance from their local consulate about the status of their visa services. Unfortunately, SISS does not have access to this information from consulates.

  Guidance for incoming students:
  SISS strongly encourages any incoming student and scholar to continue other steps in the visa process, including obtaining a Form I-20 or DS-2019 and initiating the DS-160 visa application, where permitted, even if a visa appointment slot may not be available. We do not have information about the length of any pause, but it will be important to be prepared in the event that new visa appointment time slots become available.

  Guidance for current visa holders:
  SISS cautions those F-1 and J-1 visa holders who need new visas to return to the U.S. to refrain from international travel until more information is made available from the State Department. Due to the uncertainty regarding the duration of this pause in appointment scheduling, it may be advisable to avoid international travel if you do not already have a scheduled visa appointment.

  Learn more about travel while on a visa

• April 28, 2025: Terminated SEVIS Records Reactivated

•  The 23 currently enrolled and recently graduated UC Davis students, who had their SEVIS records terminated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security earlier this month, have had their records returned to active status. As reported in the news media (see, e.g., CBS News, NBC News), on April 24, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security began reactivating the records of thousands of international students in F-1 status whose SEVIS database records had been terminated weeks before.

  The UC Davis community should remain aware that while the reversal by the Department of Homeland Security restores these students’ SEVIS records, the government has indicated that it intends to produce guidance in the future that specifies more clearly the circumstances under which SEVIS records may be terminated. SISS will continue to monitor the situation carefully and will advise our international community members as additional information becomes available.

• April 28, 2025: Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Federal Immigration Enforcement Actions

• 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 recent federal immigration enforcement actions.

  Q: Can you summarize what happened to student visa holders as referenced by Chancellor May in his message, which was updated on April 27, 2025?

  A: In early April 2025, SISS noticed that the Department of Homeland Security had terminated the SEVIS records of a number of international students holding F-1 visas. SEVIS is a federal database system used to manage the immigration status and eligibility of F-1 students to stay in the U.S. lawfully and to engage in work benefits, such as on-campus jobs or practical training. These SEVIS terminations were taking place nationally and were not publicly announced in advance by the federal government. At UC Davis, a total of 23 students saw their SEVIS records terminated through April 10. However, on April 24, the Department of Homeland Security started to return these records to active status. By the evening of April 26, the records of all 23 students were returned to active status. By restoring these records to active status, most students should be able to resume lawful status and continue to engage in their studies and/or employment.

  Q: What about other types of visa holders?

  A: During this period, only F-1 students were impacted.

  Q: Why were SEVIS records terminated in the first place?

  A: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security did not publish guidance that explained how it selected students for termination. However, based on national data and court records from different sources, many students whose records were terminated appear to have had some prior interaction or encounter with police or other authorities that caused their information to be transmitted to national law enforcement databases, even for relatively minor incidents such as driving-related citations.

  Q: Is political activity or protest the reason why SEVIS records were terminated?

  A: Involvement in political activity and protest may lead to serious immigration consequences, including possible visa revocations. Students should consider involvement in protests carefully. However, we have no indication at this time that this was a major factor for the SEVIS terminations discussed in the Chancellor’s message.

  Q: What happens now that SEVIS records have been reactivated?

  A: Because these terminations impacted our students in different ways, SISS continues to work with individual students on their specific situations and needs. Some students may have been impacted by temporarily stopping employment or in their ability to travel back to the U.S.

  Q: Will there be future events of this nature?

  A: Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has indicated that they may publish guidelines in the future that specify more clearly the situations and conditions under which they may terminate SEVIS records. However, they also indicated that they do not intend to pursue further terminations based on general information, as they did during late March and early April. SISS will monitor these developments carefully. It is important for students and other community members to be aware of the possible immigration risk posed in the event of serious infractions of the law. Consult with an immigration attorney in the event such incidents do occur.

  Q: 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?

  A: 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.

• April 7, 2025: Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Federal Immigration Enforcement Actions

• 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.
  
  Q: Chancellor May’s message refers to the termination of eligibility for student visa holders. What eligibility is being terminated? 
  A: 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.
  
  Q: Are other types of visa holders affected? 
  A: 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. 
  
  Q: Why are SEVIS records being terminated? 
  A: 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. 
  
  Q: Is political activity or protest the reason why records are being terminated?
  A: 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.
  
  Q: Is the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) notifying students that their SEVIS records are being terminated? 
  A: 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. 
  
  Q: How can I confirm that DHS has terminated my SEVIS record? 
  A: 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.  
  
  Q: What does SISS do if a student’s SEVIS record is terminated? 
  A: 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. 
  
  Q: Does a SEVIS record termination mean the student must leave the U.S. immediately? 
  A: While the student may decide to depart the U.S. immediately, consider obtaining legal advice and guidance before making a decision. 
  
  Q: Does SISS offer legal assistance?
  A: 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. 
  
  Q: Does SISS share information about SEVIS terminations with anyone?
  A; Data about terminations is treated sensitively to ensure that the privacy of impacted students is protected. Once a student is notified of a SEVIS termination, SISS may also advise appropriate university leadership and personnel to provide resources and support to affected students. 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.
   

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

• April 7, 2025: Statement from Chancellor Gary S. May on Federal Immigration Enforcement Actions

• UC Davis News published Chancellor May's statement on April 5, 2025.

  Read the statement

• 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.