SEVIS RECORD REACTIVATIONS NOT RETROACTIVE—LEGAL RISK MAY REMAIN FOR SOME INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

On April 24, 2025, ICE processed reactivations for many previously terminated SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) records. However, these reactivations were not made retroactive to the original date of termination. This action created a gap in SEVIS records that may be interpreted as a period during which affected students were out of status.

Being out of status, even temporarily, can have serious implications for international students, including:

• Loss of legal F-1 or J-1 visa status

• Ineligibility for work benefits (CPT, OPT, on-campus employment)

• Long-term immigration consequences, including visa denials or future inadmissibility to the U.S.

Immigration attorneys and advocacy groups are closely monitoring this issue. Litigation is expected to determine whether students whose records were terminated and later restored by ICE are considered to have maintained lawful status. Until that legal question is resolved, students who experienced gaps in SEVIS record activity may remain at risk, despite the reactivation.

If your SEVIS record was terminated and later reactivated, we strongly recommend:

1. Contacting your Designated School Official (DSO) immediately to review your SEVIS history

2. Consulting an immigration attorney to assess any legal risk associated with your record

3. Avoiding international travel or new immigration benefit applications (e.g., OPT/CPT) until your status is clearly in good standing

Williams Global Law understands that this situation is stressful and confusing. Our firm is closely monitoring developments and is available to support you as we await further guidance from ICE and the courts. Please do not delay in reaching out if you believe you may be affected.

Follow this link to schedule a consultation and protect your future in the United States.