International Student and Scholar Services
Immigration Updates FAQ
This information is presented for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified immigration attorney.
Immigration Updates Frequently Asked Questions
What immigration changes have taken place under the current Trump administration?
The US State Department has revoked all visas issued to South Sudanese passport holders, and has put a hold on issuing visas to citizens of South Sudan.
From a regulatory perspective, no major changes have taken place that directly affect individuals in F-1 and J-1 status. At this time, it is not clear what, if any, changes will take place via executive orders, legislation, or changes to agency guidance, policies, and regulations in the future. What has changed is the level of strictness in interpretation and overall enforcement of existing immigration regulations and laws that already apply to F-1 and J-1 status.
What changes occurred under the prior Trump administration?
Starting in 2017, the prior Trump administration issued various travel bans for citizens from Chad, Eritrea, Iran, Iraq, Kyrgyzstan, Libya, Myanmar, Nigeria, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Venezuela, and Yemen. In most cases, bans affected travel and processing for immigrant and refugee visas, but mostly did not affect F-1 or J-1 visa issuance and travel. These bans were lifted during the Biden administration. The Trump administration also banned entry for F-1 and J-1 visa holders from China affiliated with the military-civil fusion strategy, which remains in place to this day. Increases in application processing times and visa appointment availability delays were common.
Should I travel internationally?
While staff at Oberlin's International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) are available to review your travel plans and check your immigration documents before any travel, students and exchange visitors must weigh the risks of international travel and make their own decisions. Every visa application has an element of risk of denial at the consular officer’s discretion, and every entry into the US is at the discretion of border officials. Visa renewal and re-entry to the United States are not guaranteed.
How can I reduce my risk during international travel?
The best way to reduce risk during international travel is to make sure all documents are in order:
- a printed and signed copy of your I-20/DS-2019 including a valid travel signature
- a valid F-1/J-1 visa
- a passport valid for at least 6 months into the future
Optional Practical Training (OPT) students should also have:
- their valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- job confirmation letter
For current students, also have:
- a copy of your transcript
- proof of financial support
For J-1 scholars, a copy of your appointment letter can be useful.
If you have concerns about your travel plans, and particularly if you are from a country affected by a prior travel ban, you may want to discuss your concerns with an immigration attorney prior to travel. Please also note that embassy and border officials sometimes search electronic devices and review social media accounts – it is important to be judicious with electronic records.
What documents should I keep on me at all times within the US?
At a minimum, all F-1 and J-1 visa holders should keep a copy of their I-94 on them at all times in case they are asked to provide evidence of their immigration status by law enforcement or immigration officials. It is also a good idea to keep a copy of your I-20 or DS-2019 with the I-94 form. Please see this NAFSA resource for additional information.
What if I had travel plans, but now I want to stay on campus during a scheduled break?
Visit Oberlin's housing website for policy information and the application for break housing
Should international students and scholars be involved in activism?
F-1 and J-1 visa holders are typically able to exercise their right to free speech like any other individual, provided applicable campus policies as well as all federal, state, and local laws are followed. However, various forms of activism have resulted in immigration enforcement scrutiny, and we encourage international students and scholars to be thoughtful in deciding what forms of activism to engage in.
Why are visas revoked, how would I know, and what should I do if my visa is revoked?
One of the most common reasons F-1 or J-1 visas are revoked is due to an arrest or being charged with a crime in the criminal justice system. Generally speaking, the embassy or consulate that issued the visa will email you to notify you of the revocation at the email address you used during your visa application process. A revoked visa does not necessarily mean that your lawful status in the United States has ended or that you have become deportable. Rather, it simply means that the ability to use the visa to enter the United States has ended. Regardless, the best advice in this situation would be to seek counsel from a qualified immigration attorney who can review the specific details of your case. You can search for an immigration attorney via the American Immigration Lawyers Association. If the attorney fees are difficult for you to afford, you could also consider contacting two local organizations that offer immigration assistance free of charge or at a discounted rate:
How can I reduce the risk of a visa revocation?
To reduce the risk of visa revocation, be aware of the rules and regulations applicable to your immigration status and follow them. The third page of your I-20 or the second page of your DS-2019 has a summary of the most important rules that you should be aware of. Be sure to read the ISSS weekly emails for immigration reminders, review our website for the most up-to-date guidelines, and consult with ISSS staff on any questions you may have.
Has Ohio Senate Bill 1 impacted Oberlin's international students?
No, as explained in our recent bulletin, Ohio Senate Bill 1 has not affected international students at Oberlin.
How will I be notified of any changes?
If ISSS becomes aware of any changes affecting F-1 and J-1 visa holders, an email will be sent to the affected population, and the information on this page will be updated.
What if my question is not answered here?
Please email us at isss@oberlin.edu so we can advise you directly and add to this page as needed!