Feature

June 19, 2025: Resumption of F and J Visa Appointments

Mitchell Brooks Wolfe — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 14:10:22 +0000

June 19, 2025: Resumption of F and J Visa Appointments Mitchell Brook鈥� Fri, 06/20/2025 - 08:10

On June 18, 2025, the U.S. Department of State issued a press release announcing that under newly released official guidance, consular officers will conduct a 鈥渃omprehensive and thorough vetting鈥� of all student and exchange visitor applicants, and that all applicants for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas will be required to adjust the privacy settings on all their social media profiles to 鈥減ublic.鈥� The U.S. Department of State also stated that they have directed U.S. embassies and consulates to resume conducting student visas (F-1 and J-1) and Exchange Visitor (J-1) visa interviews and to reopen the scheduling of new visa appointments.

ISSS is closely monitoring the situation. Even with this updated information, given the fast-changing nature of current immigration policies, we strongly advise current 91PORN international students and scholars in F-1 or J-1 status to reconsider any international travel plans.

We encourage all students and scholars to:

Carefully review the ISSS Travel Webpage.
Read our General Travel Advisory for important guidance.
Read about the recent U.S. entry restriction for citizens of certain countries.
Stay alert to potential policy changes by regularly checking your CU email and monitoring our Immigration Alerts page.

We will share updates as soon as more information becomes available.

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June 4, 2025: U.S. Entry Restrictions for Citizens of Certain Countries FAQ

Mitchell Brooks Wolfe — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 20:09:47 +0000

June 4, 2025: U.S. Entry Restrictions for Citizens of Certain Countries FAQ Mitchell Brook鈥� Thu, 06/05/2025 - 14:09

To our international students and scholars who are citizens of the following countries:

Afghanistan
Burundi
Burma
Chad
Cuba
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Haiti
Iran
Laos
Libya
Republic of the Congo
Sierra Leone
Somalia
Sudan
Togo
Turkmenistan
Venezuela
Yemen

Presidential Proclamation Establishing U.S. Entry Restrictions

On June 4, 2025, President Trump issued a presidential proclamation instituting new entry restrictions for foreign nationals who are citizens of the countries listed above. Please see the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) below for details about these new restrictions. The FAQ is based on currently available information. It does not relate to any specific situation and should not be considered legal advice.

Do the new entry restrictions require an international student or scholar who is a citizen of one of the designated countries to leave the United States?

No. The new restrictions do not require anyone from one of the designated countries to depart the United States. The restrictions do not affect the immigration status for those who are already present in the United States. The U.S. government will not ask them to leave the country if they maintain their current immigration status.

How does the new presidential proclamation affect foreign nationals who are citizens of Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen who are (or will be) international students or scholars at the 91PORN and wish to enter the United States?

Beginning June 9, 2025, citizens of the 12 countries listed above are barred from entering the United States if they: (1) are not U.S. lawful permanent residents (鈥済reen card鈥� holders); (2) are outside the United States on or after that date; and (3) do not have a valid visa prior to June 9, 2025. This restriction applies to both intending nonimmigrants (on temporary visas) and immigrants (those granted lawful permanent residency upon entry).

How does the new presidential proclamation affect foreign nationals who are citizens of Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela who are (or will be) international students or scholars at the 91PORN and wish to enter the United States?

As of June 9, 2025, citizens of the seven countries listed above are prohibited from entering the United States if they: (1) are not U.S. lawful permanent residents; (2) are outside the United States on or after that date; and (3) did not hold a valid visa before June 9, 2025. This suspension applies to individuals seeking entry either as immigrants (granted lawful permanent residency upon arrival) or as nonimmigrants on B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, or J visas.

If a student or scholar is from one of the designated countries, does the new presidential proclamation revoke (cancel) their valid visa stamp in their passport?

No. The new proclamation does not revoke (cancel) or in any manner affect the validity of a current U.S. visa.

Do the new entry restrictions apply to someone who is a dual citizen of one of the designated countries and another country?

No. The new entry restrictions do not apply to an individual who is a dual citizen if they present a passport from a non-designated country (i.e. not one of the nineteen named countries) when entering the United States. The U.S. visa stamp must be in the passport from the non-designated country.

When do the new entry restrictions become effective?

The effective date of the new entry restrictions is June 9, 2025.

Can an international student or scholar from one of the designated countries who currently has a valid visa leave the United States and reenter?

If the visa was issued before June 9, 2025, the effective date of the presidential proclamation鈥檚 restrictions, and remains valid on the date of reentry to the United States, then the international student or scholar may use the valid visa to reenter the United States. However, given the rapid nature of changes in U.S. entry and travel restrictions, foreign nationals from one of the designated countries should exercise caution and seriously consider potential risks when deciding to travel outside of the United States.

Are there any exceptions to the entry restrictions established by this presidential proclamation?

Yes. The presidential proclamation outlines the following exceptions to the entry restrictions:

Any lawful permanent resident of the United States
Any dual national of a designated country when traveling on a passport issued by a country not so designated
Any foreign national traveling with a valid nonimmigrant visa in the following classifications: A-1, A-2, C-2, C-3, G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1, NATO-2, NATO-3, NATO-4, NATO-5, NATO-6
Any athlete or member of an athletic team 鈥� including coaches, support personnel, and immediate relatives 鈥� traveling for the World Cup, Olympics, or other major sporting event as determined by the Secretary of State
Immediate family immigrant visas (IR-1/CR-1, IR-2/CR-2, IR-5) with clear and convincing evidence of identity and family relationship (e.g., DNA)
Adoptions (IR-3, IR-4, IH-3, IH-4)
Afghan Special Immigrant Visas
Special Immigrant Visas for U.S. government employees
Immigrant visas for ethnic and religious minorities facing persecution in Iran

Can a citizen of one of the designated countries affected by the entry restrictions request a unique exception under the new presidential proclamation to apply for a visa on or after June 9, 2025, if special circumstances apply?

Yes. Under the new presidential proclamation, the U.S. Attorney General may grant an exception if she finds that the travel by the individual would advance a critical U.S. national interest involving the Department of Justice, including when individuals must be present to participate in criminal proceedings as witnesses. Also, on a case-by-case basis, the U.S. Secretary of State may grant exceptions for individuals for whom he determines that the travel by the individual would serve a U.S. national interest. These exceptions are up to the discretion of the U.S. Attorney General or U.S. Secretary of State.

If an international student or scholar believes that one of the stated exceptions may be applicable to their situation whom should they contact for assistance?

For legal advice about an exception to the entry restrictions, 91PORN international students and scholars can reach out to the Colorado Law Immigration Clinic or seek the assistance of a private immigration lawyer or nonprofit legal services provider.

Can International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) share who may be specifically impacted by this presidential proclamation and any future ones?

No. ISSS can provide information generally to the entire community about which groups of students are affected. To protect the privacy of our international students and scholars, we do not provide the exact numbers of individuals from specific, designated countries impacted by immigration policies. ISSS provides individualized advising and information to international students and scholars who may be affected. With any changes in immigration policies or rules that may affect international students and scholars visa status, ISSS sends email messages directly to those impacted and posts the information on their website as well.

Are resources available online to read more about the new entry restrictions?

On the White House website in the Executive/Presidential Actions section, is the text of the presidential proclamation.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)

At 91PORN, we strive to ensure you feel welcomed, respected, and well-supported. If you have questions, concerns, or just want to chat, ISSS is here for you. You are a valued part of the 91PORN community!

Campus Resources

ISSS wants you to know you can always talk to us or use the other resources on campus.

Here are some resources we recommend:

Don鈥檛 Ignore It: Report a concern about discrimination and harassment, sexual assault, stalking, abusive conduct, classroom disruptions, and ethics concerns or refer someone you are concerned about.
Students: Use our friendly campus counseling services to talk through feelings of anxiety, loneliness, stress, or just to have someone supportive to talk to.
Faculty and Staff: Reach out to the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program to set up a time to chat with a trained counselor.

On June 4, 2025, President Trump issued a presidential proclamation instituting new entry restrictions for foreign nationals who are citizens of the certain countries (listed in article). Please see this Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for details about these new restrictions.

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General travel advisory

Carolyn Salter — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 13:51:17 +0000

General travel advisory Carolyn Salter Tue, 06/03/2025 - 07:51

ISSS recognizes and respects the many personal and professional reasons why individuals may decide to travel. Given the current administration鈥檚 strict vetting and enforcement activities, ISSS is providing the following information as an additional resource to consider when assessing the risks associated with travel. This resource contains several considerations but is not exhaustive and is not to be construed as legal advice. Executive actions and policy changes can be swift. It is always at the discretion of the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry to admit or not admit someone who is not a U.S. citizen.

General Considerations

Prior to traveling, consider the following questions while assessing the risk associated with traveling at this time.

Is there a U.S. entry restriction for citizens of your country?
Is there an alternative way to accomplish the objective associated with your travel?
If you are detained or unable to re-enter the U.S.:
- Would you still be able to complete your educational or research endeavors?
- Do you have a plan for:
  - Managing your personal and financial affairs in the U.S.
  - Caring for dependent children

While recent lawsuits led to the reinstatement of some student SEVIS records that were terminated, U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) is continuing to build a policy for SEVIS record terminations. The following factors could be among those considered by the current administration in determining the validity of your status in and admissibility to the U.S.

Visa revocation
Legal infractions, arrests, convictions
Social media postings or publications, now or previously, that could be interpreted as espousing hateful ideology, threatening national security, or antisemitic
Membership in an organization that could be viewed negatively by the U.S. government
Participation in protests while in the U.S.
Exceeding the unemployment accrual limits while authorized for post-completion OPT or a STEM extension of OPT

Travel within the U.S.

Be prepared鈥�

While in the U.S., nonimmigrants and lawful permanent residents are required to carry their immigration documents at all times.
To board domestic flights, travelers must have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification.
- Colorado does not currently issue REAL ID-compliant driver licenses and IDs to individuals who are temporarily lawfully present in the state.
- Individuals who do not have a REAL-ID compliant ID must use an alternative form of identification, such as a passport for domestic travel.
- ISSS REAL ID FAQ

Other resources鈥�

Under 8 U.S.C. 搂 1357(a)(3), CBP officers have the right to stop and conduct a search without a warrant on trains, aircraft, or other vehicles anywhere within 100 air miles from any external boundary of the U.S. (including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago and all of Florida). CBP can operate a checkpoint or board buses and trains at the station or while they are en route.
Immigrants鈥� Rights (ACLU)

Travel Outside the U.S.

U.S. immigration policy remains unpredictable and subject to rapid change and the university cannot guarantee your re-entry to the U.S. Prior to travel, consider the risks and possible impacts for yourself and your family.

Confirm passport validity, visa validity and admissibility鈥�

Check your passport validity. You must have a valid passport to re-enter the U.S.
Check your visa expiration date. You must have a valid visa or qualify for the Automatic Visa Revalidation exception to re-enter the U.S.
- The Trump administration has reportedly directed U.S. embassies and consulates to temporarily stop conducting student visa (F-1 and J-1) and Exchange Visitor (J-1) visa interviews and to halt scheduling new visa appointments as it prepares to implement expanded social media screening for international applicants. This includes Exchange Visitor visa appointments for individuals who intend to enter the United States to conduct research, consult, teach, etc. The U.S. consulates and embassies have also paused conducting and scheduling visa interviews for dependents applying for F-2 or J-2 visas.
Check your visa status on the Department of State website.
- Select 鈥淣onimmigrant.鈥� Select the consulate that issued your current visa. Enter the 14 digit 鈥渃ontrol number鈥� from the upper right corner of your visa (XXXXXXX XXX XXXX). Enter the passport number indicated on your visa.
Determine if there are any factors that make you inadmissible to the U.S.
If you are authorized for post-completion OPT or a STEM extension of OPT:
- Check your SEVP portal to confirm your information is accurate and up to date.
- Confirm you have not exceeded the unemployment accrual limit.
  - Post-completion OPT unemployment accrual limit: 90 days
  - STEM OPT extension unemployment accrual limit: 150 days cumulative during the post-completion OPT and STEM extension authorization periods
  - If you have not entered employer information in the SEVP portal and it is beyond the unemployment limit, SEVP will terminate your SEVIS record.
- Complete the Post-Completion or STEM OPT Employment Info Update e-form to report employment to ISSS (Training & Employment-Related Forms in MyISSS portal).
  - If you are unable to enter your employment in the SEVP portal, ISSS can update it based on the submission of this e-form.
  - If you require a new I-20 with your employer information, request one on the e-form.
- Travel with your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and job offer letter

Confirm you have a valid travel signature鈥�

A travel signature is valid for re-entry to the U.S. for up to one year from the date that it is provided or until the end of your program, whichever occurs first. If you are on Optional Practical Training (OPT), a travel signature is only valid for re-entry to the U.S. within 6 months of the signature date.

F-1/F-2 Status

Travel signatures are provided at the bottom of page 2 of your I-20
To request a travel signature, complete the I-20 Reprint Request e-form (available in MyISSS portal). A new I-20 with a travel signature will be emailed to you.

J-1/J-2 Status

Travel signatures are provided in the lower right-hand corner of your DS-2019
To request a travel signature, complete the DS-2019 Reprint Request e-form (available in MyISSS portal). A new DS-2019 with a travel signature will be emailed to you.

Be prepared鈥�

Share your travel itinerary and flight information with a trusted person in the U.S. so they can follow up with ISSS and authorities if they cannot reach you and you do not return when expected.

Be prepared for heightened scrutiny from government officials when leaving or returning to the U.S.

Carry your travel documents (student travel documents, scholar travel documents) in your carry-on luggage.
CBP officers may search a traveler鈥檚 electronic devices during the inspection process and screen your social media accounts.
Check your I-94 arrival record immediately after the CBP office completes your inspection and ensure it is correct before leaving the port of entry.

Other resources鈥�

Connect with ISSS

ISSS is closely monitoring news and policy changes that impact international students and scholars. Stay in the know by reviewing our Immigration Alerts & FAQs and reading ISSS emails and ISSS News.

Add our contact information to your cell phone for emergency situations:

Phone: 303-492-8057
General Email: isss@colorado.edu
Sponsored Student Email: sponsoredadvising@colorado.edu

Connect with us in an advising appointment, on Instagram, at a program, or by providing a suggestion.

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May 30, 2025: Revocation of Chinese student visas

Mitchell Brooks Wolfe — Fri, 30 May 2025 18:52:33 +0000

May 30, 2025: Revocation of Chinese student visas Mitchell Brook鈥� Fri, 05/30/2025 - 12:52

ISSS is aware that the U.S. Department of State has issued a press statement that they will "aggressively" revoke visas for Chinese students with ties to the Chinese Communist party or "studying in critical fields." They do not define "critical fields." The press statement also indicates that the U.S. Department of State will implement measures to enhance scrutiny of visa applications from citizens of China and Hong Kong. No further details are provided. Our office is closely monitoring this situation and will update our community if more information is made available.

ISSS is here for you. We recognize that developments like this can be unsettling for our international community and understandably can cause worry. You're not alone. If you have questions or simply need someone to talk to, contact ISSS.

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International students celebrate end of semester with retreat to Garden of the Gods!

Carolyn Salter — Thu, 15 May 2025 12:52:11 +0000

International students celebrate end of semester with retreat to Garden of the Gods! Carolyn Salter Thu, 05/15/2025 - 06:52

On April 26, a group of approximately 50 international students and staff from ISSS and the Renee Crowne Wellness Institute embarked on an end-of-year retreat to celebrate a successful semester and decompress before finals.

Students traveled by bus to Garden of the Gods where they explored the park and spent time in the great outdoors before beginning the grind of studying for finals.

After exploring, students had an opportunity to participate in an optional meditation activity led by Dr. Shubham Sapkota, a Research Associate and Contemplative Programs and Scholars Leader for the Renee Crown Wellness Institute. ISSS treated the students to a healthy lunch before returning to 91PORN.

International Student and Scholar Services Assistant Director Tori Hoeninghausen shared, 鈥淭his was a great opportunity to celebrate our outstanding international students. I really enjoyed getting to know some students I鈥檝e never had the privilege to interact with, as well as reconnecting with students I鈥檝e known for many years. Their resilience and passion for education and cultural exchange have been evident throughout this past semester and I鈥檓 so glad we were able to provide a retreat to thank them for all they do for the 91PORN campus and community!鈥�

ISSS would like to extend our warmest gratitude to Dr. Sapkota for donating his time to help make this retreat special. Additionally, this trip could not have happened without the generous donation from the Dorothy & Anthony Riddle Family Foundation. Thank you!

We are excited and hopeful that we will be able to host similar trips like this in the Fall 2025 semester and for years to come. Be sure to check out the ISSS Programs & Events webpage to learn more about how to participate in future ISSS events. 鈥�

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Scam alert: Impersonation scheme targeting Middle Eastern students in the United States

Carolyn Salter — Thu, 15 May 2025 12:23:24 +0000

Scam alert: Impersonation scheme targeting Middle Eastern students in the United States Carolyn Salter Thu, 05/15/2025 - 06:23

The FBI is warning the public about a fraud scheme targeting foreign individuals lawfully residing in the United States on valid student visas. Criminal scammers impersonate U.S. and foreign government officials claiming there is an issue with the student's immigration status and exploit this for financial gain. Thus far, we are aware scammers have targeted students from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Jordan.

Read Full Public Service Announcement

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ISSS staff advocate for international education on Capitol Hill

Carolyn Salter — Sat, 26 Apr 2025 15:20:07 +0000

ISSS staff advocate for international education on Capitol Hill Carolyn Salter Sat, 04/26/2025 - 09:20

Chris Hertel and Amrine Obermueller from the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office traveled to Washington, D.C. on April 2 to advocate on behalf of international students and scholars and the future of global education in the United States. While in the nation鈥檚 capital, they met directly with Wyoming Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, as well as U.S. Representative Harriet Hageman. Additionally, they held discussions with aides from the offices of Colorado U.S. Representative Jon Neguse and Senator Michael Bennet.

During their meetings, Hertel and Obermueller urged lawmakers to restore critical funding for U.S. Department of State international education and exchange programs. They also advocated for sustained support of these programs as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process. In addition to funding discussions, the ISSS representatives emphasized the importance of Congressional oversight of U.S. visa and immigration systems. They encouraged members of Congress to continue using hearings and legislative actions to ensure these systems remain secure, efficient, and accessible, which strengthens both national security and America鈥檚 position as a global leader in education. 鈥淥ur office is deeply passionate about helping and advocating for international students and scholars,鈥� said Amrine Obermueller. 鈥淭heir presence enriches our campuses and communities, and we want to ensure they continue to have opportunities to study, grow, and contribute here in the U.S.鈥�

The congressional meetings ISSS staff attended were arranged by NAFSA: Association of International Educators as part of their annual Advocacy Day. Nearly 150 attendees from 37 states and Canada participated in 105 meetings, many of them with members of Congress that sit on the committees that influence immigration and education policy.

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April 25, 2025: Class-action lawsuits, temporary restraining orders, & reinstated student visa records FAQ

Mitchell Brooks Wolfe — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 19:04:07 +0000

April 25, 2025: Class-action lawsuits, temporary restraining orders, & reinstated student visa records FAQ Mitchell Brook鈥� Fri, 04/25/2025 - 13:04

The media has been reporting on various lawsuits, including class-action lawsuits, and resulting temporary restraining orders to stop the termination of immigration status and revocation of visas of international students.

The government has reactivated some terminated international student SEVIS records nationally, including some at 91PORN. ISSS is monitoring this situation closely and informing impacted students whose immigration status has been reactivated.

If new information comes to light that may affect a visa holder鈥檚 eligibility, or if a visa is being revoked, DOS will notify the visa holder by using the email address provided on the DS-160. Therefore, be sure you list an email on your DS-160 you will check regularly during your time at 91PORN.

See the frequently asked questions (FAQ) below for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do temporary restraining orders from recent lawsuits protect all international students impacted by visa revocations and/or termination of their immigration status?

No. As of this writing (April 25, 2025) temporary restraining orders only protect individuals who are part of the lawsuit.

What is a temporary restraining order?

A temporary restraining order is a short-term court order requiring a person or entity to do or cease doing a specific action.

Who can provide additional information about the pending class-action lawsuits and how to join them?

Please consult with an immigration attorney if you have questions about the class-action lawsuits and the temporary restraining orders. The Immigration Law Clinic may be a resource for additional information. ISSS is not able to answer any questions.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)

We want you to feel welcomed, supported, and safe throughout your time at 91PORN and while you're in the United States. If you have questions or just need someone to talk to, ISSS is here to help. You can access both walk-in and remote advising services. Feel free to contact us via email at isss@colorado.edu or call us at 303-492-8057 during our regular office hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For sponsored students, we also offer dedicated walk-in and remote advising. You can reach the Sponsored Student Advising team directly at sponsoredadvising@colorado.edu.

Campus Resources

ISSS wants you to know you can always talk to us or use the other resources on campus. Here are some resources we recommend:

Students: Use our friendly campus counseling services to talk through feelings of anxiety, loneliness, stress, or just to have someone supportive to talk to.
Faculty and Staff: Reach out to the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program to set up a time to chat with a trained counselor.

Thank you for choosing to be part of 91PORN鈥攚e're glad you're here.

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April 24, 2025: Applications for immigration benefits & visa stamps: Review of social media & antisemitic activities FAQ

Carolyn Salter — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 15:47:33 +0000

April 24, 2025: Applications for immigration benefits & visa stamps: Review of social media & antisemitic activities FAQ Carolyn Salter Thu, 04/24/2025 - 09:47

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced on April 9, 2025, that they would begin considering an individual鈥檚鈥渁ntisemitic activity on social media and the physical harassment of Jewish individuals as grounds for denying immigration benefit requests.鈥� Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released an internal cable requiring a mandatory social media check for certain student (F, M, and J) visa applicants. These actions are related to two of President Trump鈥檚 executive orders, one released on Jan. 20, 2025, and the other released on Jan. 29, 2025.

See the frequently asked questions (FAQ) below for more information. FAQs are based on currently available information and relate only to this announcement and cable.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the USCIS guidance become effective?

The guidance took effect on April 9, 2025.

Who is affected by this guidance?

It applies to individuals who are not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents including foreign nationals holding nonimmigrant (temporary) visa status such as but not limited to international students and scholars.

What is an 鈥渋mmigration benefit?鈥�

An immigration benefit is any benefit that derives from an application that one files with the USCIS. Examples include an application for an employment authorization document (work permit) to engage in Optional Practical Training and an application to change one鈥檚 nonimmigrant status from Exchange Visitor (J-1) to H-1B status.

What content is the USCIS looking for on social media?

According to the USCIS news release, they will 鈥渃onsider social media content that indicates an alien endorsing, espousing, promoting, or supporting antisemitic terrorism, antisemitic terrorist organizations, or other antisemitic activity.鈥�

What will happen if the USCIS finds any content that they think meets this definition on one鈥檚 social media?

According to the USCIS news release, the USCIS will consider any such social media content 鈥渁s a negative factor in any USCIS discretionary analysis when adjudicating immigration benefit requests.鈥�

Will this announcement impact one鈥檚 ability to get a visa stamp at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad.

USCIS is not the government agency that issues visa stamps. The U.S. Department of State (DOS) is the government agency that approves or denies visa applications at U.S. consulates and embassies outside of the United States.

Does the U.S. Department of State (DOS) review visa applicants鈥� social media for such content?

Earlier this month, the DOS released an internal cable stating that 鈥渃onsular officers must refer certain student and exchange visitor (F, M, and J) visa applicants to the Fraud Prevention Unit (FPU) for a mandatory social media check鈥︹€� The internal cable has not been released to the public.

Does the DOS cable indicate what criteria they will use to determine when a mandatory social media check will be required before visa issuance?

The DOS cable states that all new or returning F-1 or J-1 student visa applications meeting one of the following criteria must have a mandatory social media check done before visa issuance:

The consular officer has 鈥渞eason to believe鈥� that the applicant 鈥渉as openly advocated for a designated foreign terrorist organization;鈥�
The applicant was previously in the United States in F-1, M-1, or J-1 visa status between Oct. 7, 2023, and Aug. 31, 2024; or
The applicant has a previous SEVIS record that was terminated between Oct. 7, 2023, and the present.

Will this impact processing times for applications for new or continuing student visas?

Most like yes. The consular officers will likely require mandatory social media checks for some visa applicants, and that will slow down the visa issuance process since the DOS cannot issue the visa until the check is completed. For students planning on applying for a visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy during summer break, plan on applying early in the summer and expect delays.

Will this internal DOS cable impact an international student in F-1 or J-1 visa status who is in the United States in valid nonimmigrant status with a valid visa in their passport?

Perhaps. The cable directs consular officers to review valid visas in accordance with this guidance and determine if there is a basis to request that the DOS revoke the visa. The cable states that not only a finding of support for terrorist activity or a terrorist organization but also one that the visa holder 鈥渂ears a hostile attitude toward U.S. citizens or U.S. culture including government, institutions, or founding principles鈥� may be considered.

If the DOS revokes someone鈥檚 visa how will the DOS notify them?

DOS is supposed to send an email message to the email address that the individual used when they applied for the visa, so one should check that email account (including the junk folder) regularly for any emails from the DOS.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)

For sponsored students, we also offer dedicated walk-in and remote advising. You can reach the Sponsored Student Advising team directly at sponsoredadvising@colorado.edu.

Campus Resources

ISSS wants you to know you can always talk to us or use the other resources on campus. Here are some resources we recommend:

Students: Use our friendly campus counseling services to talk through feelings of anxiety, loneliness, stress, or just to have someone supportive to talk to.
Faculty and Staff: Reach out to the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program to set up a time to chat with a trained counselor.

Thank you for choosing to be part of 91PORN鈥攚e're glad you're here.

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REAL ID requirement for domestic travel in the U.S. FAQ

Mitchell Brooks Wolfe — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 21:52:49 +0000

REAL ID requirement for domestic travel in the U.S. FAQ Mitchell Brook鈥� Fri, 04/18/2025 - 15:52

Effective May 7, 2025, travelers in the U.S. must present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you prepare for this new requirement. Since this is a new requirement, there may be additional updates or exceptions as implementation progresses. ISSS is actively monitoring this issue and will include updates in our e-newsletter as more information becomes available.

What is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a state-issued

driver鈥檚 license or identification card that meets increased security standards established by the federal government. Beginning May 7, 2025, travelers will need a REAL ID or another form of TSA-approved identification to fly domestically within the U.S.

In Colorado, the driver's license or state ID has a star in the top right corner to show it is REAL ID compliant.

Can international students and scholars get a REAL ID in Colorado?

Unfortunately, Colorado does not issue REAL ID-compliant licenses or IDs to individuals who are temporarily lawfully present in the U.S., including those in F-1, J-1, or H-1B status.

What are the alternatives if I can鈥檛 get a REAL ID?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts several other forms of identification at airport checkpoints, including a foreign government-issued passport and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Cards (I-766) (EAD Card).

Please review the complete list of acceptable documents on the official TSA website.

What if I don鈥檛 have my passport with me at the time of travel?

This concern often arises during passport renewal or when applying for a visa to travel to a third country from within the U.S., particularly if the consulate is located outside of Colorado. For example, if your passport is temporarily held by your home country鈥檚 consulate during a passport renewal process, you may not have it available for your return domestic flight.

In this case, ISSS recommends:

Contacting your airline and the TSA at your departure airport in advance to explain your situation and ask if a certified copy of your passport will be accepted or if they can provide alternative guidance.
Contacting the consulate to inquire whether expedited processing is possible, allowing you to retain your passport prior to your return to Colorado.
Considering alternative transportation, such as train or car travel, if feasible.

Will there be any changes or exceptions to this requirement?

Because the REAL ID rule is still being implemented, there may be updates or exceptions announced by the federal government or TSA. ISSS will continue to monitor developments and will share relevant updates through our newsletter and website.

Legal Requirement to Carry Immigration Registration Document

Beyond the REAL ID requirement, to comply with this legal requirement, nonimmigrants and lawful permanent residents should carry a printed copy of their I-94 Arrival-Departure Record or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). It is also recommended that individuals carry hard copies of relevant immigration status documents such as their Form I-20, Form DS-2019, or valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD card). This is not a new requirement, but historically it was rarely enforced.

We understand that this change may cause concern, particularly for international scholars and students without access to a REAL ID. As always, ISSS is here to support you. If you have questions about your travel plans or identification options, don鈥檛 hesitate to contact our office. We鈥檒l continue to share updates as we receive them.

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