Recent reports of U.S. study visa revocations have sparked anxiety among international students currently pursuing their education in the United States. The U.S. Department of State has been issuing notices, leading many to fear for their academic futures. However, Cornell University has stepped forward with crucial clarifications, aiming to ease the concerns of international students.
The Core Issue: DUI/DWI Arrests and Visa Revocation
The U.S. Department of State holds the authority to revoke non-immigrant visas, including the F-1 student visa and the J-1 exchange visitor visa, under specific circumstances. A key trigger for these revocations is an arrest or conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), or similar offenses, that occurred within the last five years.
This news has understandably caused worry among international students. However, the guidance provided by Cornell University emphasizes that a visa revocation does not necessarily equate to deportation or the end of one’s academic journey in the U.S., especially for those currently within the country.
Cornell University Clarifies the Impact of Visa Revocation
According to a recent summary issued by Cornell University, international students need to understand the following key distinctions:
1# ✅ No Impact on In-Country Status: If you are already present in the United States, the revocation of your visa does not affect your current legal student status. Your F-1 or J-1 visa stamp is primarily for entering the U.S. Your continued legal presence is based on:
-
- A valid I-20 (for F-1/F-2 visa holders) or DS-2019 (for J-1/J-2 visa holders).
- Maintaining full-time enrollment and adhering to all status regulations.
2# ❌ Significant Impact on Re-Entry: The crucial point to note is that a revoked visa becomes invalid for future entry into the United States. If your visa has been revoked, you will not be able to re-enter the U.S. using that visa after any international travel. In such cases, you would be required to apply for a new visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate before you can return.
How Students Might Learn About US Study Visa Revocation?
Cornell University highlights that students might become aware of their visa revocation in several ways:
- Official Notification: Receiving a direct notice, either via email or postal mail, from the U.S. embassy or consulate that initially issued the visa.
- Travel Disruption: Unexpectedly discovering the revocation at a U.S. port of entry after returning from an international trip.
Cornell advises that if you have experienced a DUI or similar arrest/conviction since your visa was issued and are uncertain about your visa’s current status, it is prudent to proactively contact the visa-issuing post to verify its validity before making any travel arrangements.
Crucial Advice for Students Planning to Travel
For international students who have faced an arrest or conviction and are considering traveling outside the U.S., Cornell University strongly advises the following:
- Delay Travel Plans: Do not book any travel until you have clarity on your visa status.
- Contact the Issuing Authority: Reach out to the U.S. embassy or consulate where you obtained your visa to confirm its current validity.
- Seek Guidance from Your Institution: Immediately connect with your school’s international student office. They can provide personalized advice and, if necessary, assist you in consulting with an immigration attorney.
It’s also important to remember that if your student visa (F-1 or J-1) is revoked, the dependent visas (F-2 or J-2) of your family members could also be affected.
Reassurance for Students Staying in the U.S.
For international students with no immediate plans to travel outside the United States, the clarification from Cornell University offers reassurance. If your visa has been revoked but you remain in the U.S., this action does not impact your ongoing studies or your legal status within the country. You are permitted to continue your education and daily life as usual, provided you maintain a valid I-20 or DS-2019 and adhere to all academic requirements.
The information shared by Cornell University provides valuable clarity for international students navigating the complexities of U.S. visa regulations. By understanding the distinction between in-country status and the ability to re-enter, students can better assess their situation and take appropriate steps if necessary. It is always recommended to stay informed and seek guidance from your university’s international student office for any concerns regarding your visa status.
References:
- Cornell University International Students and Scholars Office: https://international.globallearning.cornell.edu/alerts/guidance-visa-revocation-emails
- University of Chicago International Affairs: https://internationalaffairs.uchicago.edu/students/current-students/visa-revocation
- Georgia Institute of Technology International Student and Scholar Services: https://isss.oie.gatech.edu/content/visa-revocation.
