1. What is SEVIS?

SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is an online system used by the U.S. government to track and monitor international students and exchange visitors during their stay in the United States. This system stores biographical and immigration status information on international students, exchange visitors, and their dependents, and allows for real-time updates to this information when students and exchange visitors change schools, change visa status, or complete their studies.

2. Who is required to use SEVIS?

SEVIS is a web-based system that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) requires designated schools and programs to use to maintain information on nonimmigrant students (F and M visa holders) in the United States, and those who come to the U.S. to attend medical school, intern, or participate in a summer work travel program.

3. What types of student visas require SEVIS?

Student visas that require SEVIS (the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) include: F-1 Student Visa, M-1 Student Visa, J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa, and F-2, M-2, and J-2 Dependent Visas.

4. What information is collected in SEVIS?

SEVIS collects information on all F, M, and J visa holders such as biometrics, passport information, addresses, and contact information. It also records any changes to the student’s visa status such as program extensions or transfers. Additionally, SEVIS stores school information, employment data, and academic performance.

5. How long does a student stay in SEVIS?

Once a student enters the US, their SEVIS record is valid for the duration of their program, plus 60 days.

6. How often does a school need to update student information in SEVIS?

A school is required to update student information in SEVIS within 21 days of any change.

7. How does SEVIS track student location and status in the U.S.?

SEVIS tracks student location and status in the U.S. by collecting information from Designated School Officials (DSOs) and other authorized government officials. The information collected is then stored in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). DSOs must regularly update student information in SEVIS, such as current address, program enrollment and employment status. This information helps track the student’s location and status in the U.S., as well as any changes that may occur over time.

8. How can a student transfer from one school to another using SEVIS?

A student must first obtain a transfer release form from their current school, which states that the school has released them and their SEVIS record. The student then must provide this form and begin the application process for their desired school, including submitting any necessary documents such as transcripts or proof of financial stability. Once the school has accepted the student, they will generate a new Form I-20 or DS-2019 and transfer the student’s SEVIS record to reflect their new school.

9. What happens if a student fails to notify the school of a change of address or other information in SEVIS?

If a student fails to notify the school of a change of address or other information in SEVIS, they may be deemed out of status and may be subject to deportation. Additionally, failure to update SEVIS with changes in address or other information may prevent the student from receiving authorization to re-enter the United States after travel.

10. What information is required for international students to apply for a U.S. student visa?

To apply for a U.S. student visa, international students will need to provide proof of acceptance to a college or university, proof of financial resources to cover expenses, passport and travel documents, evidence of ties to their home country, and in some cases, evidence of proficiency in English.

11. What is the process for obtaining an I-20 form?

The process for obtaining an I-20 form is as follows:

1. First, the applicant must complete the I-20 Application Form. This form requires basic personal information, such as name, date of birth, and address. It also requires financial information, such as proof of financial ability to cover tuition costs for the duration of the educational program.

2. The applicant must then submit the application form along with all required supporting documents to the educational institution. Depending on the program and institution, these documents may include a valid passport, proof of immunity from certain diseases, a copy of academic records, and proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL scores).

3. Once all required documents have been submitted, the institution will review them and issue an I-20 form if the applicant meets all eligibility requirements.

4. The I-20 form must then be presented to a U.S. consulate or embassy in order to apply for an F-1 (Student) visa.

12. What documents are required for entry into the U.S.?

The documents required for entry into the U.S. vary depending on the type of traveler and their citizenship or visa status. Generally, all travelers will need a valid passport and in some cases, a valid visa. Non-U.S. citizens may also need additional documents such as an I-94 Form, ESTA authorization, or a visa waiver form.

13. What is the duration of a student visa granted on an I-20 form?

The duration of a student visa granted on an I-20 form is typically for one year, but the length of the visa may vary depending on the program of study and other factors.

14. What are the requirements for maintaining a valid student visa status in the U.S.?

To maintain a valid student visa status in the U.S., an international student must abide by a few basic rules. These rules include:

– Maintaining full-time enrollment in a degree-seeking program and making normal progress towards completion of the program.
– Not working off campus without prior authorization from the Designated School Official (DSO).
– Reporting any change in name, address, or educational level status to the DSO within 10 days of the change.
– Refrain from engaging in any unauthorized activity, such as working more hours than authorized or engaging in activities not related to the student’s educational program.
– Refrain from traveling abroad for more than five months without authorization from the DSO.
– Refrain from engaging in activities for which he or she is not eligible, such as taking classes not related to their academic program or working off campus without prior authorization.

15. What are the consequences of overstaying a student visa in the U.S.?

Consequences of overstaying a student visa in the U.S. can include but are not limited to:

1. Ineligibility for future visa applications or entry to the U.S., unless granted a waiver.

2. Being barred from remaining in the U.S. and subject to removal proceedings.

3. Being assessed a civil penalty of up to $3,000 for each overstay violation.

4. Being classified as an “unlawful presence” by the U.S. government, which can lead to bars to re-entry for 3-10 years, depending on the length of time illegally spent in the U.S.

5. Being ineligible for public benefits, such as Social Security benefits or Medicare, if they attempt to apply while in the U.S. illegally.

6. Facing criminal charges for illegal presence in the U.S., if applicable.

16. Can international students work during their studies in the United States?

Yes, international students are allowed to work in the United States during their studies. There are several options available for international students to work part-time on and off campus. On-campus employment is limited to 20 hours per week while school is in session, and full-time during holidays and summer vacations. Students may also work off-campus after obtaining proper authorization from their school and the U.S. government.

17. What types of work authorization are available for international students studying in the U.S.?

International students studying in the U.S. may be eligible for the following types of work authorization:

• Optional Practical Training (OPT): Allows students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months after completing their program.

• Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Allows students to work in their field of study while they are still enrolled in their program.

• H-1B Visa: Allows foreign workers with specialty skills to work in the U.S. for up to 6 years with potential green card sponsorship.

• J-1 Visa: Allows exchange visitors, including students, to work and study in the U.S. for a limited period of time.

18. Are there restrictions on how long international students can stay in the United States after graduation?

Yes, international students can stay in the United States after graduation for a limited period of time depending on their status and the type of visa they have. The most common post-graduation visas are Optional Practical Training (OPT), Curricular Practical Training (CPT), and H-1B. OPT and CPT are typically good for up to one year, while an H-1B visa is usually valid for up to three years. In some cases, international students may also be eligible for an extension of their visa.

19. How can an international student obtain permanent residency in the United States?

The most common way for an international student to obtain permanent residency in the United States is through employment-based immigration. This requires you to have an employer who is willing to sponsor you for a green card. Other pathways to permanent residency include family-based immigration, asylum or refugee status, or the Diversity Visa Lottery Program.

20. What happens if an international student is accused of violating their visa status or other immigration laws?

If an international student is accused of violating their visa status or other immigration laws, they may face deportation and may be barred from entering the United States in the future. The student may also face criminal penalties, depending on the severity of the violation. It is important for international students to always comply with immigration laws and to seek assistance from a qualified immigration attorney if they have questions or concerns.