Travel Concerns
Q: What should I consider before traveling outside the U.S.?
A: Scholars should check the relevant page for their visa type at Resources for International Scholars for a list of necessary documents. All international travel has a small risk of inability to return; scholars should carefully consider whether a given trip is necessary given the current immigration enforcement climate.
Q: Are there any risks of being denied reentry to the U.S.?
A: There is always a risk, however small, of being denied reentry to the U.S. However, such denials remain extremely rare. Some scholars, particularly those from certain countries or those who have engaged in public or online political advocacy, may face additional scrutiny. Scholars should make sure that they take all required documents with them and are respectful and responsive to U.S. government officials.
Visa Status & Policy Changes
Q: Where can I find updates on U.S. immigration/visa policies?
A: The UW Office of Global Affairs maintains a page with the latest information on visa and immigration policy changes. If you are a scholar on a visa sponsored through ISO, you should also join the International Scholars Mailing List for a quarterly newsletter and periodic updates on relevant legal changes.
Q: How can I check my immigration status?
A: J-1 scholars should contact ISO if they have any concerns about their immigration status. ISO is checking the SEVIS database daily and will notify scholars if an unexpected change is made to their status.
Scholars on petition-based visas like H-1Bs or TNs filed through USCIS can check the status of their most recent petition using the receipt number provided by ISO.
Q: Will U.S. immigration agencies consider my social media posts as part of my immigration applications?
A: Yes, U.S. immigration agencies review social media posts as part of most immigration applications, including applications for visa stamps at U.S. consulates abroad, applications for admission at U.S. ports of entry, and applications for immigration benefits through USCIS inside the U.S. If you are concerned that specific social media posts may adversely affect your application, you should consider discussing with a private immigration attorney (see below).
Security and Immigration Enforcement
Q: What should I do if approached by immigration enforcement officials?
A: Review Know Your Rights information to understand how to handle this situation. If you encounter immigration enforcement officials on campus, the UW has established protocols for responding to federal agency requests.
Q: Are international scholars at risk of deportation due to U.S. immigration policy changes?
A: While policies can shift, scholars maintaining legal status and compliance with visa regulations should not be at immediate risk. ISO will continue to monitor the systems we have access to for clear signs of enforcement action against scholars and contact scholars if we see such signs. Scholars who are especially concerned may want to consult with private immigration attorneys before enforcement action occurs to make sure they have the appropriate legal support. See below for more information on how to find an attorney.
Legal Advice on Immigration Matters
Q: Can the UW provide legal assistance for immigration issues?
A: While the UW does not offer direct legal representation, it provides general information about relevant visa processes and information on how to find an immigration attorney for case-specific concerns.
Q: Where can I find legal resources for visa-related concerns?
A: For questions about your UW-sponsored visa, always ask ISO first; if we’re not able to answer your question, we’ll give information on how to find an immigration attorney.
For questions not related to your UW-sponsored visa, or if you are concerned about the possibility of being detained, ISO recommends working with a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. Other options for reduced cost representation are listed at the UW School of Law Immigration Clinic Resources.
Department and Institutional Guidance
Q: How can departments support international scholars with visa concerns?
A: Departments should refer scholars to the UW’s immigration and visa resources, and direct them to institutional policies on travel and employment.
Q: What resources are available to international scholars?
A: The UW offers online resources, advising services, and informational sessions. See Resources for International Scholars for more information.