1. What is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)?

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is an online system used by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to manage and track international students and exchange visitors. SEVIS is used by the DHS, schools, and exchange programs to issue Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) and Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status). These forms are necessary for international students and exchange visitors to be admitted into the United States and remain in status.

2. What are the requirements for obtaining a U.S. student visa?

In order to obtain a U.S. student visa, applicants must provide the following documents:

-A valid passport
-Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status (for F or M visa)
-A completed Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) Form
-One photograph taken within the last six months, according to the visa photo requirements
-A receipt showing payment of the visa application fee
-Documentation that shows sufficient financial resources for study in the United States
-Evidence of ties to home country to prove the student’s intent to return after completion of studies

3. How does SEVIS track F-1 visa holders?

SEVIS tracks F-1 visa holders by tracking information related to their status such as program enrollment, address and employment. This information is reported and updated by the student’s school or university, and it is used to monitor the student’s compliance with visa regulations. SEVIS is also used to issue Form I-20 which is necessary for a student to apply for a visa.

4. What is the Form I-20 and how is it used?

Form I-20 is a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) form that is used by international students to apply for an F-1 student visa or other immigration benefits. It certifies that a student has been accepted to a U.S. institution of higher learning and has demonstrated financial support for their studies in the U.S. The Form I-20 is issued by the school the student plans to attend and must be presented at the U.S. embassy or consulate when the student applies for a visa.

5. How does SEVIS help protect students from fraudulent U.S. schools?

SEVIS helps protect students from fraudulent U.S. schools by tracking and monitoring student activity. It helps to ensure that students are attending accredited schools and following the terms of their student visas. SEVIS also allows the Department of Homeland Security to revoke the student visa of a student found to be enrolled at a fraudulent school, ensuring that students are unable to stay in the U.S. illegally.

6. What is the difference between a DS-2019 and an I-20?

A DS-2019 is the form used for the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program and an I-20 is the form used for the F-1 Student Visa Program. A DS-2019 is issued by a designated exchange visitor sponsor and allows an eligible J-1 exchange visitor to enter the U.S. for participation in an exchange program. An I-20 is issued by a school to prospective international students so they can obtain an F-1 visa to study in the U.S. The DS-2019 is also known as “Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status” and the I-20 is also known as “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status”.

7. How can I view or update my SEVIS information?

Individuals can view and update their SEVIS information by logging into their student portal. They may also be able to update their information with their school or program’s Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Representative.

8. What are the requirements for maintaining my F-1 status?

In order to maintain F-1 status, you must:

• Remain in valid immigration status
• Maintain a full course of study and make normal progress toward completing your academic program
• Comply with the U.S. Department of State regulations regarding on-and off-campus employment
• Obtain written authorization from your designated school official (DSO) to engage in practical training
• Notify your DSO of any changes in your academic, financial or residential status
• Maintain health insurance coverage during the period of your studies, and;
• Comply with all reporting requirements set forth by the DSO.

9. Does my school have to report information about me to SEVIS?

Yes. Schools must report certain information about students to SEVIS. This includes arrival and departure dates, changes in program of study, change in legal name, and other information.

10. Does SEVIS have any impact on my ability to stay in the United States while studying?

Yes. SEVIS is an important part of the immigration process as it is the system that tracks international students and their activities while in the United States. Through SEVIS, your school can help you maintain your F-1/M-1 visa status, complete visa extensions, and request travel authorization. Without SEVIS, you would not be able to legally stay in the United States while studying.

11. What happens if I violate my student visa conditions or terms?

If you violate the terms and conditions of your student visa, you may face serious consequences. Depending on the severity of the violation, you could be subject to removal or deportation from the United States, be denied future entry into the United States, or be barred from obtaining any future U.S. visas.

12. What if I need to extend my stay in the U.S.?

If you need to extend your stay in the U.S., you can file a Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Be aware that you must file this form before your authorized period of stay expires. You may not stay in the U.S. beyond your authorized period of stay without USCIS approval.

13. How can I find a designated school official (DSO)?

You can contact your school’s international student advisor, or the institution’s designated school official (DSO), who is typically responsible for issuing immigration documents to international students.

14. How does SEVIS help monitor international students attending U.S. schools?

SEVIS (the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) helps monitor international students attending U.S. schools by tracking and storing information about their activities and locations. This helps schools, government agencies, and other authorized organizations to ensure that these students are complying with the requirements of their visas and other rules related to their stay in the United States. SEVIS also helps in the prevention of fraud and abuse of student visa programs.

15. Does SEVIS track Other Nonimmigrant Student (F-2) dependents?

Yes, SEVIS tracks F-2 dependents. SEVIS collects information for F-2 dependents, including name, address, date of birth, and other biographical information.

16. Can I transfer my SEVIS record to another school?

Yes, you can transfer your SEVIS record to another school. You must get written approval from the DSO or ARO at your current school before beginning the transfer process. The new school you plan to transfer to must also be authorized by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to enroll international students.

17. Are there any special rules for students studying abroad before returning to the United States?

Yes, many universities have specific rules for students studying abroad before returning to the United States. These rules can vary depending on the school and program, but generally, students must have a valid passport, visa, and health insurance to be enrolled in the program. Additionally, they may need to obtain specific immunizations and vaccines before traveling abroad. In some cases, students may be required to complete a series of orientation sessions prior to departing for their study abroad destination.

18. How do I report a change of address to SEVIS?

If your address has changed, you must report the change within 10 days of moving in SEVIS. You can do this by logging into your SEVIS account and selecting “Update my address” from the My SEVIS Options page. Once you have submitted the change, it will be updated in SEVIS within three business days.

19. Can family members of a student visa holder enter the United States?

Yes, family members of a student visa holder may enter the United States. Generally, family members of a student visa holder may apply for a B-2 visitor visa in order to enter the United States.

20. Are there any restrictions on employment while studying in the United States on a student visa?

Yes, there are restrictions on employment while studying in the United States on a student visa. Students on F-1 and M-1 visas can only work in certain authorized positions, such as on-campus jobs, curricular practical training, and optional practical training. Additionally, there are restrictions on the amount of hours worked and the type of job a student can do.