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US F-1 visa holders in shock over sudden revocation notices, students panic

Richa Pandey
30 Mar, 2025

The recent reports of F-1 visa revocations

have caused panic among international students in the U.S., with many receiving abrupt notices of visa cancellations without clear explanations. Here’s what’s happening and what affected students should do:

What’s Going On?

- Some F-1 students have received emails from U.S. embassies or the Department of State stating their visas were "revoked under INA 221(i)"(Immigration and Nationality Act).

- The notices often provide no specific reason, leaving students confused and worried about their legal status.

- Reports suggest this may be linked to past visa denials, administrative processing delays, or security checks rather than new violations.

Immediate Steps for Affected Students

1. Check Your SEVIS Record

- Log into the SEVP Portal ([https://sevp.ice.gov](https://sevp.ice.gov)) to confirm if your F-1 status is still active.

- Contact your Designated School Official (DSO) immediately—they can verify your SEVIS status.

2. Visa Revocation ≠ Status Termination

- If you’re inside the U.S., your visa revocation does not automatically invalidate your F-1 status (as long as SEVIS is active).

- However, if you travel abroad, you’ll need to reapply for a new visa to re-enter the U.S.

3. Consult an Immigration Lawyer

- If you believe the revocation was a mistake (e.g., you never had a prior visa denial), a lawyer can help file a FOIA request (Freedom of Information Act) to get details from the government.

4. Reapplying for a Visa

- If you must travel, you’ll need to schedule a new visa interview and explain the revocation.

- Prepare evidence of your legal status, enrollment, and financial stability.

Why Is This Happening?

Possible reasons include:

- Previous visa denials (even if later approved).

- Pending or expired administrative processing(e.g., background checks).

- Errors in government databases (some revocations may be accidental).

Official Response

- NAFSA (Association of International Educators) is aware of the issue and urging affected students to contact their DSO and seek legal help.

- The U.S. State Department** has not issued a public statement, but some embassies are reviewing cases individually.

Key Advice

- Do not panic—if you’re in the U.S. and your SEVIS is active, you can stay and study.

- Avoid international travel until resolving the issue.

- Document everything—save emails, I-20s, and visa stamps.

If you’re affected, contact your university’s international office ASAP. Stay updated via NAFSA ([https://www.nafsa.org](https://www.nafsa.org)) or AILA (American Immigration Lawyers Association).