Major Reversal in Student Visa Policy Offers Relief—But Raises Ongoing Concerns

In a striking turnaround, the federal government has reinstated the legal status of thousands of international students whose SEVIS records were abruptly terminated earlier this month—an action that sparked confusion, litigation, and widespread fear of deportation.

Following growing legal pressure and nearly 100 lawsuits filed across the country, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced in federal court that affected students would see their SEVIS records reactivated and their status restored.

What Prompted the Change?

According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Carilli, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are currently developing a formal policy to govern future SEVIS record terminations. Until that framework is finalized, the federal government confirmed that all plaintiffs in the current lawsuits—and similarly affected students—will remain in active status.

This comes after weeks of turmoil during which approximately 5,000 students saw their SEVIS records terminated, effectively stripping them of legal status in the United States. While the government framed the move as a routine enforcement action, students and advocates argued that terminations were often unjustified or based on trivial issues like dismissed charges or minor infractions such as traffic violations.

What Is SEVIS?

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is the U.S. government’s primary platform for monitoring the legal status of international students in the country. Termination of a SEVIS record typically renders a student subject to removal unless legal remedies are pursued quickly.

Legal Pushback and Partial Victories

The legal blowback was swift. Lawsuits were filed from coast to coast by students who said they were never charged with serious crimes and were given no warning before losing their immigration status. Notably, a federal judge in Georgia ordered the reinstatement of over 130 student records, and U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan recently ruled in favor of an Ohio State University graduate student whose visa had been revoked following an arrest at a pro-Palestinian protest. The charges were later dropped and expunged, yet his visa was still canceled—until the court intervened.

Not Everyone Is Satisfied

Despite the policy shift, many critics argue that serious concerns remain unresolved. Miriam Feldblum, president of the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, emphasized the long-term risks students continue to face.

“Reactivating a record does not erase questions about the genesis of this unlawful policy… Nor does it prevent the Trump administration from reversing course and returning to these unlawful behaviors,” she said.

Others, like immigration attorney Charles Kuck, welcomed the reversal but highlighted the damage already done.

“What we don’t yet know is what ICE will do to repair the damage it has done—especially for those students who lost jobs and offers and had visas revoked,” Kuck told Newsweek.

What’s Next?

Although the DOJ insists that visa revocations have not technically been reversed, they have confirmed that SEVIS records for plaintiffs and similarly situated students will remain active until a new termination policy is finalized. In short, students have been given a temporary reprieve—but the broader issue remains under scrutiny.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Carilli stated:

“ICE is developing a policy that will provide a framework for SEVIS record terminations. Until such a policy is issued… ICE will not modify the record solely based on the NCIC finding that resulted in the recent SEVIS record termination.”

What Should You Do If You’re Affected?

If you are an international student whose visa status has been impacted by these sudden terminations—or if you are worried about future repercussions—legal support is critical. Even students whose SEVIS records have been reactivated may still face long-term complications related to job offers, visa renewals, and travel restrictions.

Our Attorneys Are Here to Help

At Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP, we are closely monitoring these policy developments and are prepared to help affected students protect their status and future in the U.S. We’ll work with you to assess your situation, explain your legal options, and develop a plan to keep your record clean and active.

📞 Call us today at 212-233-8100

🌐 Or visit www.PPID.com to schedule a consultation.

Don’t let uncertainty jeopardize your education or your future—contact PPID today.

About The Author

Conrad E. Pollack

Conrad E. Pollack is the Managing Partner and Director of Immigration at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from New York University and earned his J.D. from Brooklyn Law School. With over three decades of experience in immigration law, Conrad has helped countless clients achieve their American Dream. Under his leadership, PPID has expanded significantly, opening new offices in Peekskill and Brooklyn, NY. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and has been recognized for his professional excellence with numerous awards and distinctions. Education: Magna Cum Laude graduate from New York University; J.D. from Brooklyn Law School. Awards: Recipient of numerous professional excellence awards. Memberships: Active member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

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