Dear Incoming International Students, We want to update you on a recent development from the U.S. Department of State. As of yesterday, the State Department has temporarily paused the scheduling of new visa appointments while it reviews procedures for social media screening as part of the visa application process. Although social media vetting has been in place…
Dear International Students and Scholars, The government’s decision to rescind Harvard’s ability to enroll international students is deeply concerning. We want to reaffirm, clearly and unequivocally, the University of Pennsylvania’s deep commitment to our international community. You are essential to the intellectual vibrancy and global strength of our campus, and we value the contributions you…
SEVIS Termination Notices – What You Need to Know as an International Student at Penn Read This First Update on SEVIS Terminations and Support for International Students Begin Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) General Questions about SEVIS Termination Q1: What does a SEVIS termination mean?A SEVIS termination means your F-1 or J-1 immigration record is no…
ISSS is closely monitoring recent policy changes announced by the new administration to assess the potential impacts on Penn’s international student and scholar community. Last week, the U.S. State Department issued an announcement that it is taking action to revoke visas held by South Sudanese passport holders and prevent further issuance of visas to South…
Recently, we have learned that at least three people on Penn-sponsored student visas have had their SEVIS records terminated. This means their immigration status has been deactivated in the federal Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Notifications were sent through the Department of Homeland Security’s automated systems. AT THIS TIME, IT APPEARS THAT THESE…
Dear Penn Community, We are aware of reports that international students at universities across the U.S. have received emails from the State Department notifying them that their visas have been revoked and urging them to ‘self-deport.’ ISSS is actively monitoring the situation to verify such reports. ISSS will continue to provide updates as more information…
We want to bring to your attention reports indicating that a new travel ban may be announced as early as next week. While the specifics are not yet confirmed, the countries expected to be affected include Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. If you are a citizen of one of these countries,…
By: ISSS Staff – 2024/11/20 As Thanksgiving and winter break approaches, we are writing to provide reminders regarding international travel. When you return to the U.S., you will present the following documents to the CBP Officer: Valid passport Printed out Form I-20 with travel signature* Valid F-1 entry visa** (Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do…
By: ISSS Staff – 2024/12/18 ISSS is moving! During the winter break, we will be relocating to our new office at 3935 Walnut Street, directly across from Gutmann College House, above McDonald’s. Here’s our operational timeline: December 19, 2024 (Thursday) – Last day at St. Leonard’s Court, Suite 305 & 330, 3819 Chestnut Street. …
By: ISSS Staff January 31, 2024: A USCIS Final Rule was published implementing fee increases for certain immigration and naturalization benefits. The increase in the following filing fees will most impact the Penn community: International Students F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT and STEM OPT) Form I-765: Online filing will increase from $410 to $470 Paper…