Loune-Djenia Askew, Esq
Apr 7, 2025
In a recent interview, Senator Marco Rubio revealed that the U.S. Department of State has already revoked 300 student visas—with more likely to follow. Historically, visa revocations were reserved for serious legal violations, like arrests or convictions. But that may be changing.
In a recent interview, Senator Marco Rubio revealed that the U.S. Department of State has already revoked 300 student visas—with more likely to follow. Historically, visa revocations were reserved for serious legal violations, like arrests or convictions. But that may be changing.
According to Rubio and recent trends, U.S. immigration officials now appear to be using broader sources of information—like social media activity and immigration history—to revoke student visas. The concern? Some students may be losing their status based on accusations of activism or national security concerns, without formal charges or due process.
SEVP and ICE Are Now Terminating SEVIS Records Without Notice
What's especially alarming is a new pattern emerging over the last few days: the Department of Homeland Security, through Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), has begun terminating SEVIS records without notifying the student—or even the school.
Once a student’s SEVIS record is terminated, the consequences are immediate and serious:
The student loses all employment authorization (on-campus jobs, CPT, OPT, and STEM OPT).
The student can no longer re-enter the U.S. using the terminated SEVIS record.
ICE may initiate investigations to confirm the student’s departure.
All dependent records (F-2) are also terminated.
There is no grace period after a status violation. Students must either apply for reinstatement or leave the country immediately.
Deportability and Legal Risk
U.S. immigration law states that any individual who fails to maintain their nonimmigrant status—or does not follow the conditions of that status—is subject to deportation. Given the vague basis and lack of notice in these terminations, affected students must act fast and speak to an experienced immigration attorney, especially one familiar with deportation defense.
Can Students Get Reinstated?
Yes, but reinstatement is complex. To be eligible, students generally must:
Apply within five months of the termination, or explain exceptional reasons for the delay.
Not have worked without authorization.
Intend to pursue a full-time program at their current school.
Show that the violation was due to circumstances beyond their control.
Not be deportable for any reason other than a failure to maintain F-1 or M-1 status.
If a student applies after the five-month window, they must also:
Repay the I-901 SEVIS fee.
Provide a detailed explanation for the delay and plans to stay in compliance moving forward.
What DSOs and Students Should Do Now
Given the current uncertainty:
Students should monitor their SEVIS status closely and seek legal help immediately if they receive any notices or lose access to benefits.
DSOs should proactively review the SEVIS Help Hub and use tools like the “Students Nearing Reinstatement Deadline” alert list to support impacted students.
Bottom line: The rules are shifting quickly, and the consequences are severe. International students should not wait for formal notification to act. If you’re unsure about your visa status or SEVIS record, seek advice from your DSO or a qualified immigration attorney as soon as possible.
For more information, contact our office at Askew & Associates, P.A. by calling 954-546-2699.
Disclaimer: this blog post is not intended to be legal advice. We highly recommend speaking to an attorney if you have any legal concerns.