Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between visa and SEVIS status? Please explain visa revocation and SEVIS termination.

A visa is a document that permits someone to enter a country, while SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) tracks and monitors individuals admitted to the U.S. as students. Revoking a visa means it's no longer valid for entry, while terminating SEVIS status means the student's legal ability to stay and study in the U.S. is ended. Visa revocation is typically handled by the Department of State, while SEVIS record termination is managed by the Department of Homeland Security.

You are still able to stay and study in the U.S. with an expired/revoked visa, as long as your SEVIS record is active.

How do I know if my visa is revoked?

You are usually notified by email from the U.S. embassy or consulate that issued your visa. The email could be sent to the email you used when applying for your U.S. visa. You can also contact the embassy/consulate directly to check. The OISSS office is not able to check this for you.

How do I know if my SEVIS is terminated?

We will inform you immediately if your SEVIS record is terminated. You do not need to call our office to check.

What will happen if my SEVIS status is terminated?

If your SEVIS status is terminated, it means you are no longer in legal status in the U.S. and your F-1 student visa is no longer valid. You will lose all associated benefits, including the ability to work or re-enter the U.S. This usually necessitates immediate departure from the U.S., although you may be eligible for reinstatement under certain circumstances.

Maintain your status

Please visit this Homeland Security Website for more information.

Can I travel overseas during summer?

OISSS advises using caution with international travel, as U.S. immigration policies are unpredictable and can rapidly change without notice. If you do decide to travel, make sure to carry your I-20 signed for travel (request a travel signature through the iRocket Portal), valid visa, passport valid within 6 months, proof of enrollment and financial documents. If you are on OPT/STEM OPT also carry your EAD card and offer letter or verification letter from your employer.

Changes in visa processing, entry requirements, and potential delays could also impact travelers’ ability to re-enter the U.S. as planned. It is very important to keep in mind that we do not have definitive information including which countries or visa categories would be affected, or the timing of any potential restrictions.

If you need to renew your visa, know that The U.S. State Department has been reducing staff at embassies worldwide, which could lead to longer wait times and increased scrutiny.

All international travelers should prepare for additional screening by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) when you return from abroad.

Each time you enter the U.S., CBP will issue you a new I-94 number. We strongly recommend that you download your most recent I-94 to ensure you have been admitted into the U.S. in the correct status and as proof of registration.

OISSS is closely monitoring the situation and will keep our students posted as things continue to evolve and as information is issued by the Department of State.

Visit this Homeland Secruity Website for more information.

Can I travel within the U.S.?

Generally, yes. Always carry your passport, visa, I-20, and I-94 printout.

What documentation should I carry with me at all times?

Electronic copies of your passport, visa, I-20, and I-94.

What are my rights?

For helpful information, visit the American Civil Liberties Union Website.

What should I do if I am approached by immigration officials?

Visit UToledo’s Guidance for Federal Immigration Enforcement Website.

What should I do if I’m feeling anxious and overwhelmed about the recent immigration actions?

Besides working with OISSS about your concerns, you can also reach out to the University Counseling Center or the Center for Advocacy and Student Experience (CASE) for additional support.

University Counseling Center
1735 West Rocket Drive, Toledo, OH 43606
https://www.utoledo.edu/studentaffairs/counseling/
Phone: 419.530.2426

Center for Advocacy and Student Experience (CASE)
Student Union Room 2518
https://www.utoledo.edu/studentaffairs/case/
Phone: 419.530.4357

Can the Student Legal Services help me with immigration related questions?

No, you should work with the Office of International Student and Scholar Services or an immigration attorney for these questions.

How do I verify who is contacting me?

Please be extra cautious about scams targeting international students. Scammers may contact you by phone, email, or text pretending to be from government agencies, immigration services, or even your school.

They may:

Demand immediate payment or threaten deportation
Ask for personal or financial information
Claim you owe money or violated visa rules

What to do:

Never share your SSN, passport number, bank details, or login info
Hang up or ignore suspicious messages - real authorities won’t demand payment by phone or gift cards
If in doubt, speak to OISSS or a trusted advisor

For more scam information, visit this website.