SEVIS Termination and F-1 Visa Revocation: Available Solutions and Next Steps for Students

Over the past few days, we have received a notable influx of inquiries from international students who have shared that their SEVIS records were terminated and F-1 visas revoked, often with little warning or explanation. While the number of affected students is still unclear, the impact on those involved has been profoundly disruptive to their academic pursuits in the United States.

What’s particularly concerning is that some of these students appear to have been targeted due to prior incidents that did not result in formal charges or convictions — including arrests without prosecution or cases that remain pending in court and may ultimately be dismissed.

Students affected by this sudden termination now face a narrow set of options and an uncertain future.

If You’re Affected, Here’s What You Need to Know:

1. SEVIS Terminated & F-1 Visa Revoked

   If your SEVIS record has been terminated and your F-1 visa revoked, you are considered out of status and must either depart the U.S. or apply for reinstatement. The current USCIS processing times for Form I-539 reinstatement applications are significant, with the California Service Center taking approximately 5 months and the Vermont Service Center taking around 9 months.

   
   

   If your reinstatement is denied, you may face serious consequences:

   1. Future U.S. visa applications may only be filed from your home country or country of permanent residence

   2. Accrual of unlawful presence may begin, potentially impacting future immigration benefits

   3. A record of status violation will be entered into U.S. government systems

   4. No appeal is available for reinstatement denial

   
   

2. F-1 Visa Revoked, But SEVIS Record Still Active

   While it appears that most affected students are experiencing both SEVIS terminations and visa revocations, in cases where the SEVIS record remains active, students may remain in the U.S. and continue their studies. However, if you leave the U.S., you cannot re-enter using the current F-1 visa and must apply for a new one.

   
   

3. Reapplying for the F-1 Visa

   Students planning to reapply for an F-1 visa should consult with an experienced immigration attorney to assess eligibility for a nonimmigrant visa waiver, such as one under INA §212(d)(3). Given the heightened scrutiny we expect consular officers to apply in these cases, thorough legal preparation is strongly advised to avoid delays or further complications.

   
   

If you are facing SEVIS termination or F-1 visa revocation, it's crucial to take action right away to protect your academic and immigration status. Consult with an experienced immigration attorney to explore your rights and available options. For urgent assistance, feel free to contact us or call our Immigration Emergency Hotline at 347-897-6199.

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