The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), plays a critical role in maintaining oversight of nonimmigrant students in the F, M, and J visa categories through the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). In 2025, SEVP reiterated its authority to terminate SEVIS records when students or dependents no longer meet the terms of their nonimmigrant status.
What Triggers a SEVIS Record Termination?
A terminated SEVIS record may indicate that a nonimmigrant no longer maintains lawful F or M status. This action is typically initiated by Designated School Officials (DSOs) and can impact F-1/M-1 students and their F-2/M-2 dependents. While termination doesn’t always lead to immediate immigration consequences, it can serve as a basis for further review or removal proceedings if status violations are confirmed.
Common Termination Reasons Include:
- Exceeding unemployment time on OPT
- Failure to comply with I-515A
- Non-payment of the I-901 SEVIS fee
- No-show or withdrawal from school
- Failure to report on OPT
- Violation of change of status rules
- Change of status approval
- Visa revocation by the U.S. Department of State
- Evidence of non-compliance with visa terms
DSOs must record the reason for termination in SEVIS. If there is evidence of noncompliance with visa requirements, the Department of Homeland Security may initiate removal proceedings under INA § 237(a)(1)(C)(i).
Visa Revocation and Immediate SEVIS Termination
The U.S. Department of State has the authority to revoke a nonimmigrant’s visa at any time under INA § 221(i), especially based on derogatory information from law enforcement or ICE. If a visa is revoked with immediate effect, SEVP may also terminate the individual’s SEVIS record without delay. This revocation can serve as a basis for removability under INA § 237(a)(1)(B).
However, SEVP is advised not to act on visa revocation grounds until confirmation is received from the State Department.
What Students and Schools Should Know
While SEVIS record termination is a serious administrative action, it often reflects procedural or compliance lapses that can be addressed. International students are encouraged to stay in close contact with their DSOs and ensure that they maintain proper documentation and timely updates to their SEVIS records.
Need Guidance?
Ahluwalia Law Offices provides legal counsel to international students, academic institutions, and employers navigating SEVIS compliance and visa regulations. Contact our office to schedule a consultation with our immigration attorneys.
