1. What is SEVIS and how does it work?

SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is a web-based system that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) uses to manage information on foreign students and exchange visitors in the United States. It is used to track, record, and monitor the activities of foreign students and exchange visitors throughout their stay in the United States. It keeps records on all students and exchange visitors, including their arrival and departure dates, current address, school name and address, and educational activity. SEVIS alerts schools and the DHS of any changes in status or if any student or exchange visitor fails to comply with their visa requirements. SEVIS also allows students, exchange visitors, schools, government agencies, and other authorized users to access information quickly and accurately.

2. Is there a fee for using SEVIS?

Yes, there is a fee for using SEVIS. The fee for international students and exchange visitors is $200.

3. How do I register with SEVIS?

The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) is responsible for registering and monitoring international students studying in the United States. To apply for SEVIS registration, you must first obtain an I-20 or DS-2019 form from your school. This form will include the required information needed to register. Then you must pay the SEVIS fee and submit your registration form along with the fee to USCIS. Once they have approved your application, your SEVIS record will be activated and you will be registered with SEVIS.

4. Who is required to use SEVIS?

SEVIS is required to be used by all Department of Homeland Security (DHS) approved designated school officials (DSOs) who are responsible for maintaining records and submitting reports related to international students and exchange visitors in the U.S.

5. What information is required to be listed in SEVIS?

In the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), information about international students and exchange visitors is collected and stored. This includes personal information, such as name, date of birth, and contact details, as well as information about their educational program such as school attended, program name and start date. SEVIS also stores more detailed information about international students and exchange visitors, such as immigration status, current and previous legal addresses, and visa status.

6. How do I update my information in SEVIS?

Students are required to update their information in SEVIS within 10 days of any changes to their immigration status or contact information. This can be done by logging into or creating an account at the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) website. If you have any questions, please contact your designated school official (DSO).

7. What are the deadlines for updating information in SEVIS?

The deadlines for updating information in SEVIS depend on the specific type of information that needs to be updated. Generally, schools must update student information within 21 days of learning about the change. For example, changes to a student’s name, address, or major must be reported within 21 days. For changes to a student’s immigration status or the program end date, schools must report the change within 10 days.

8. What if I forget to update my information in SEVIS?

If you forget to update your information in SEVIS, contact your international student advisor or the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) immediately and inform them of the situation. They will be able to help you update your information in SEVIS.

9. How do I know if my information has been updated in SEVIS?

You can check the status of your information in SEVIS by logging into your account and checking the status field. If the status is “Current” then your information has been successfully updated.

10. Is there a way to track event history for a student’s status in SEVIS?

Yes, there is a way to track the event history for a student’s status in SEVIS. SEVIS records all events and changes that occur in the student’s record. This data can be viewed in the Event History tab located on the student’s profile or in a printable report.

11. How can I access my school’s records in SEVIS?

If you are an international student, you can access your school’s records in SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) by logging in to your school’s SEVIS portal using your username and password. You may also be able to view your school’s records in SEVIS by contacting your school’s international student office.

12. What are the rules and regulations of SEVIS?

SEVIS rules and regulations dictate that all international students must:

1. Maintain a full course of study and make normal progress toward completing their program of study.

2. Remain in valid F-1 or J-1 status at all times.

3. Notify their Designated School Official (DSO) within 10 days of any changes to their name, address, immigration status, or program of study.

4. Notify their DSO within 10 days of any new job opportunities or changes to employment status for those students who are eligible for on-campus or practical training employment authorization.

5. Notify their DSO within 10 days of any absences from school for more than five consecutive days.

6. Obtain the proper travel authorization prior to leaving the United States and Re-enter the U.S. prior to the expiration of their authorized period of stay.

7. Report to their DSO within 10 days of any changes to their degree or field of study.

13. How can I find an authorized official to help me with my SEVIS needs?

You can contact a SEVIS-certified Designated School Official (DSO) at your school to help you with your SEVIS needs. Your school’s DSO will be able to provide you with the support and guidance you need in order to properly maintain your student visa status. You can also contact the Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) Answer Center for further assistance.

14. What happens if I violate the rules of SEVIS?

SEVIS violations can lead to serious consequences, such as having your F-1 or J-1 status terminated or having your visa revoked. It is important that international students and exchange visitors understand and comply with their immigration requirements in order to maintain legal status in the United States. If you have any questions or are unsure about any of the rules, please contact an immigration attorney or your school’s international student and scholar services office for assistance.

15. How do I make sure I’m providing accurate information to SEVIS?

To ensure accuracy in SEVIS, check the information you’re providing against the information on your student’s I-20. Make sure to double-check dates, biographical information, and other details. Additionally, always make sure to update any changes to the student’s status in a timely manner and as soon as possible.

16. Where can I find the latest changes to the SEVIS regulations?

The latest changes to the SEVIS regulations can be found on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s website. Additionally, the website of the SEVIS-related agency in your country may provide updates as well.

17. How can I get help if I have a problem or question about SEVIS?

If you have a problem or question about SEVIS, you can call the SEVP Response Center at (703) 603-3400 or e-mail [email protected]. You can also visit the ICE website or the Department of State website for more information.

18. What are the penalties for failing to comply with the regulations of SEVIS?

The failure to comply with the regulations of SEVIS can result in potential civil and criminal penalties. Civil penalties can include fines of up to $11,000 per violation, while criminal penalties can include imprisonment of up to five years and/or a fine of up to $250,000. In addition, an institution or individual that fails to comply with the regulations of SEVIS may be subject to the suspension or termination of their authorization to access SEVIS.

19. Are electronic signatures accepted by the U.S. government for documents submitted through SEVIS?

Yes, electronic signatures are accepted by the U.S. government for documents submitted through SEVIS. The government requires that all electronic signatures must meet certain standards as set forth in the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce (ESIGN) Act. This Act requires that all electronic signatures must be verifiable, reliable, and indicate a clear intent to sign the document.

20. Are there any specific laws related to maintaining data in SEVIS?

Yes, all SEVIS records must be maintained for three years after the student’s program end date or the student’s departure from the United States, whichever comes first. Schools must also comply with the privacy rules, which require that all personally identifiable information about students be kept confidential and secure. Additionally, schools must ensure that their SEVIS records are accurate and up to date, and that any changes to the information is reported immediately.