Page updated April 17, 2025
A presidential executive order issued on Jan. 20 directed a review of federal visa policies around countries or regions determined to pose security risks. The outcome of that review was expected in late winter, but as of this writing had not been finalized. In addition to that order, an executive order issued on Jan. 29 related to Title VI enforcement and antisemitism caused concern that individuals’ visas could be revoked, including based on political views or actions. Since then, the U.S. Department of State has revoked a number of visas with national security concerns and/or expressions of antisemitism as the stated reasons.
In late March, reports from other colleges and universities indicated that F-1 and J-1 student visas were being cancelled by the U.S. government and student SEVIS immigration records were being terminated without notice to the school or student and with few details provided. UW international student services staff began regular checks of SEVIS records and in early April identified students and recent graduates participating in post-graduation training who had been affected. UW staff has been contacting these students and graduates directly to provide resources. A statement was issued on April 7 about this situation and updated April 17 with the current count of affected students and recent graduates.
University officials are not receiving any notifications from the government when they terminate the SEVIS record, but other schools indicate that students receive an email from the embassy or consulate where their visa was issued. If you are have an F-1 or J-1 student visa and receive an official e-mail or other official communication saying that your visa has been cancelled and you must leave the United States, please contact your campus’ international student services office immediately. Links for each campus office appear below.
All of these measures are under active review by the University and more information will be provided when available. The Office of Global Affairs has compiled resources for international students and scholars and the offices serving international students on each campus are also available to provide information.