Immigration Updates
Student SEVIS Record Terminations and Visa Revocations
We recognize the uncertainty that many of our international students and scholars may be experiencing following recent media reports of Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record terminations and student visa revocations at other academic institutions across the country.
While we are not aware of any UT Southwestern students affected at this time. UT Southwestern’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) is closely monitoring these developments to support the well-being of all our students and employees, including members of our international community.
Your presence and contributions are important to our institution and OIA teams monitor the SEVIS system daily. If we become aware of actions that may affect your immigration status, such as a SEVIS student record termination, we will notify you immediately, inform you of changes in status, and provide additional support.
Given privacy laws and policies, we cannot provide specific information about anyone who may be affected.
Note: Since visa revocations, initiated by the Department of State (DoS), are different than SEVIS student record terminations, initiated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), OIA may not be aware if your visa is revoked; however, you will be notified by DoS should this happen. If your visa is revoked, please contact OIA immediately for guidance as your SEVIS student record may not have been terminated and therefore you remain in valid student status.
Important: If your student record is terminated in SEVIS, current immigration regulations do not allow for a grace period to remain in the United States.
Please also be aware that UT Southwestern cannot provide individuals with legal advice. We strongly encourage you to consult with qualified immigration legal counsel if you have any concerns about your status or need guidance on available options.
Additionally, there are wellness and counseling support resources available to you at the following link: https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/employees/hr-resources/eap/.
Travel Outside of the United States
If you are planning to travel internationally, please be aware that you may encounter more thorough inspections upon re-entry to the U.S. at the Port of Entry (POE). These inspections may include referral to secondary inspection, where Customs and Border Protection officers may conduct a detailed review of your documentation and personal belongings.
Given this possibility, you may want to consider limiting non-essential international travel at this time, particularly in light of the upcoming summer break.
Additionally, please note:
- If your student visa is expiring or has expired, but you are maintaining valid student status (your SEVIS student record has not been terminated) in the U.S., you are not required to leave the country solely to renew your visa. Please reach out to OIA if your visa is expiring so we can provide you guidance based on your individual situation.
We’re Here to Support You
The Office of International Affairs is committed to sharing important updates as new guidance becomes available.
If you have questions or need assistance, please reach out to us via InternationalAffairsOIA@UTSouthwestern.edu.