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F-1/J-1 Visa Revocations and Criminal Arrest Implications
Illinois Tech | Office of Global Services
Last Updated: April 10, 2025
Important Update: Visa Revocations and Detentions
We want to bring to your attention recent reports highlighting increased scrutiny and enforcement actions related to F-1 student visas across the United States.
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has recently revoked a number of student visas, and officials have indicated that additional revocations may be forthcoming. This marks a significant shift, as historically, visa revocations were rare and typically associated with arrests, criminal charges, or other serious infractions.
We understand that these developments may leave you with uncertainty, questions and concerns. Please know that Illinois Tech’s Office of Global Services (OGS) is actively monitoring SEVIS records and will notify impacted students or alumni immediately should we become aware of changes that affect their visa status.
About F-1 or J-1 Visa Revocations
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) typically notifies the F-1 and or J-1 visa holder directly via email in the event of a visa revocation. These emails may be sent to the address you entered in your DS-160 visa application.
Universities are not directly notified of revocations by DOS.
A revoked visa does not always impact your ability to remain in the U.S. if you are otherwise maintaining valid nonimmigrant status. However, you must consult an immigration attorney to fully understand your situation.
Many students only learn their visa has been revoked when attempting to re-enter the U.S. after international travel.
Recommended Actions
Regularly check your email accounts, including the one you used during your visa application, for potential communication from the U.S. government.
If you are involved in any law enforcement action, including being arrested, detained, or issued a citation—even if charges are later dropped or dismissed—it is critical that you immediately seek legal advice from a qualified immigration attorney.
If you receive a visa revocation notice, contact OGS immediately. We will assist you in reviewing your options and providing referrals.
Consider proactively reaching out to legal counsel to understand potential risks.
Impacts of Criminal Arrest on F-1/J-1 Status
This section provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. If you are dealing with a legal situation, we strongly recommend consulting with both an immigration and a criminal attorney.
Implications You Should Understand
Many immigration applications ask: “Have you ever been arrested?” Even if you were not charged or charges were dismissed, you are typically still required to answer yes. Misrepresentation on immigration forms can have serious consequences for your status and future applications.
FAQs: Criminal Arrests and Visa Status
What is a visa?
A visa is an official document stamped in an individual's passport that grants permission to enter the United States for a specific time and purpose—such as study, work, or travel. Noncitizens seeking to enter the U.S. generally must obtain either:
- A nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or
- An immigrant visa for permanent residence.
For students at Illinois Tech, the most relevant nonimmigrant visa categories are:
- F-1 Visa: For academic study at an accredited institution like Illinois Tech, including college, university, secondary school, or English language programs
- J-1 Visa: For participation in exchange visitor programs, including high school and university exchanges
- M-1 Visa: For vocational or non-academic studies
What is the difference between a visa and status?
A visa is a travel document issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate that allows international students to travel to a U.S. port of entry. However, it does not guarantee entry. Upon arrival, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer will review the visa and related documents to determine if the individual qualifies for admission. If admitted, the officer will issue an admission stamp or update the Form I-94, specifying the date and duration of authorized stay.
Status, by contrast, refers to the legal immigration classification held while in the U.S., as indicated by the I-94 record. For Illinois Tech students, maintaining F-1 or J-1 status involves complying with immigration rules, such as enrolling full-time. Importantly:
- A person can have multiple valid visas in their passport, but only one status at any given time.
- A student may have an expired visa and still maintain valid status if they remain in the U.S. and continue complying with immigration regulations.
What is SEVIS?
SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is a secure, web-based platform used by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to track F, M, and J visa holders while they are in the United States. It enables real-time reporting of student information by:
- Educational institutions such as Illinois Tech
- Exchange visitor program sponsors
SEVIS was created to enhance national security and to ensure compliance with immigration regulations. It also facilitates enforcement actions, such as denial of entry or benefits, if violations occur.
What is a SEVIS record termination?
A SEVIS termination indicates that a student is no longer maintaining F or M visa status. At Illinois Tech, Designated School Officials (DSOs) are authorized to terminate records for reasons such as:
- Failure to enroll in a full course load
- Failure to report while on Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- Absence from campus without authorization
- Expulsion or other disciplinary issues
Consequences of SEVIS termination include:
- Loss of employment authorization (on and off campus)
- Ineligibility to reenter the U.S. on the same SEVIS record
- Possible investigation by ICE to confirm departure
- Termination of SEVIS records for any accompanying dependents (F-2/M-2)
What is considered a “law enforcement action” for immigration purposes?
A law enforcement action includes any interaction with police or other law enforcement authorities that results in formal documentation or response. This can include, but is not limited to:
- Being arrested
- Being detained, even briefly
- Being charged
- Being issued a citation or ticket (including minor infractions)
- Being questioned as part of a criminal investigation
- Having a restraining order issued
- Any incident that leads to the creation of a police report, even if you are not charged
Important: Even if charges are later dropped, dismissed, or never filed, the fact that a law enforcement action occurred may still have serious implications for your immigration status.
If you are involved in any such situation, it is critical that you seek legal advice immediately from a qualified immigration attorney. Immigration consequences are not always obvious and can affect your visa, future applications, or even lead to removal proceedings.
Will law enforcement action affect my current F-1 or J-1 status?
It depends on the severity of the situation. Some incidents may trigger a visa revocation or SEVIS record update. Consult with OGS and legal counsel promptly.
What’s the difference between being charged and being arrested?
A charge is when the state formally accuses you of a crime. An arrest is a detention by law enforcement. You can be arrested and not charged or charged without arrest if issued a citation.
What if I was arrested but not charged?
You still must answer “yes” to being arrested on most visa or immigration forms, even when you were arrested but not charged, for any clarifications always be truthful and consult an immigration attorney for case-specific advice.
Will an arrest or conviction impact my immigration or visa status now or in the future?
Possibly. Depending on the nature of the arrest or conviction, it could impact your immigration status or future visa eligibility or entry into the U.S.
What if my case was expunged or sealed?
Even if expunged, the arrest may still need to be disclosed on immigration forms. Legal counsel can help clarify your obligations.
What is visa revocation?
Visa revocation means that a previously issued visa has been invalidated and is no longer valid for travel to the U.S. If you leave the U.S., you will need to apply for a new visa before returning. Revocation can occur:
- At the discretion of a consular officer or the Secretary of State
- If the visa holder adjusts to permanent resident status or has a prior removal order
- If the visa holder is no longer eligible for the visa classification
- If the visa is physically removed from the passport
- If the visa holder is listed in the IDENT Watchlist—often due to convictions such as DUI or DWI within the past five years
What is a SEVIS record termination?
A SEVIS termination indicates that a student is no longer maintaining F or M visa status. At Illinois Tech, Designated School Officials (DSOs) are authorized to terminate records for reasons such as:
- Failure to enroll in a full course load
- Failure to report while on Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- Absence from campus without authorization
- Expulsion or other disciplinary issues
Consequences of SEVIS termination include:
- Loss of employment authorization (on- and off-campus)
- Ineligibility to reenter the U.S. on the same SEVIS record
- Possible investigation by ICE to confirm departure
- Termination of SEVIS records for any accompanying dependents (F-2/M-2)
Can ICE terminate my SEVIS?
While historically rare, recent developments show that ICE may now directly terminate SEVIS records under certain conditions. These include:
- Involvement in protests or political speech
- Past arrests or criminal convictions
- Visa revocation due to concerns raised in criminal record checks
Such terminations are often justified by DHS as resulting from violations of status or behavior deemed to have potential foreign policy consequences. Students whose SEVIS records are terminated under these circumstances are advised to seek legal counsel immediately.
Can a student be placed in removal proceedings if their visa is revoked?
Yes. If a student’s visa is revoked, they may be charged with removability and summoned to immigration court. During these proceedings:
- The U.S. government presents the basis for removal.
- The student has the opportunity to respond and may seek legal remedies or relief.
Can a student be placed in removal proceedings if their SEVIS record is terminated?
Yes. A terminated SEVIS record can serve as grounds for being placed in removal proceedings due to a failure to maintain legal status. As with visa revocation, students have the right to contest these proceedings in immigration court.
Can a student remain in the U.S. and continue studying if their visa is revoked?
Yes. A revoked visa does not invalidate a student’s F-1 status, as long as the student:
- Remains in the U.S.
- Continues full-time enrollment at Illinois Tech
- Maintains compliance with all status-related requirements
However, if the student leaves the U.S., they must obtain a new visa to re-enter.
Will I hear from DHS or DOS if my visa is revoked or cancelled?
Yes, typically via email sent to the address used in your visa application. The university is not notified.
What should I do when detained by ICE?
Contact an immigration attorney immediately. You or a representative should also inform Illinois Tech OGS as soon as possible. We will work with you and any legal contacts to support your situation.
What are a student’s rights if they encounter ICE?
Illinois Tech advises students to be aware of the following rights if approached by ICE:
- The right to remain silent
- The right to speak to a lawyer
- If represented by an attorney, students may provide a signed DHS Form G-28 to ICE.
- Students are encouraged to provide copies of immigration documents to a trusted friend or family member.
Special thanks to the Office of International Affairs at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis for developing the majority of this content.
Need Support? Contact OGS
Illinois Tech Office of Global Services (OGS)
Email: global@iit.edu
Phone: 312.567.3680
Hours: Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Emergency (After Hours): Call Public Safety at 312.808.6363
Additional Resources
National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC)
Illinois Legal Aid
ACLU – Know Your Rights
Heartland Alliance
Penn State Dickinson Law—Center for Immigrants' Rights Clinic
Penn State Global—Immigration Resources
Legal and Regulatory References
Sources include provisions from the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), the Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM), and guidance from DHS and ICE:
- INA § 101(a)(15), § 211, § 221(i), § 237(a)(1)(B), § 237(a)(1)(C), § 237(a)(4)(C)
- 22 C.F.R. § 41.122, § 41.113
- SEVIS official site: ice.gov/sevis
- Study in the States
- U.S. Department of State Visa Information
- Cyrus Mehta, A Foreign Student Whose Visa Has Been Revoked by Trump Should Still Be Able to Continue to Attend School (2025)
Important Notification About Scams
Illinois Tech’s Office of Global Services wants you to be aware of reports of international students and scholars receiving calls from people claiming to be from United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Chicago Police Department. These are scams. Please see below for more information about how you can protect yourself and what you should do if a scammer contacts you.
Recently, scammers have impersonated both ICE officials and Chicago police officers, and they have spoofed ICE and Chicago Police Department phone numbers. The scammers also have directed callers to ICE.gov to verify their information. The scammer then directed the victims to transfer money using an app such as Zelle. If someone claiming to be a government official or law enforcement officer calls you making threats such as deportation, beware! Hang up and report it!
Please note that the Chicago Police Department and United States federal agencies such as ICE, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Social Security Administration (SSA), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will never call you and ask for money or gift cards, or threaten students with arrest and/or deportation. They will not ask you to verify your personal or financial information. Government officials will contact you only through official government channels and will not reach out to you through your personal social media accounts (such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.).
Here’s How the Scam Works
A number appears on your caller identification that may look like a legitimate government number. When you answer, the person on the phone poses as a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services official, some other government official, or a law enforcement officer. The scammer (or scammers) will say there is a problem with your application or additional information is required to continue the immigration process. Then they will often ask for sensitive personal and financial information, demand payment, and threaten you with deportation, arrest, or other negative consequences if you do not comply.
The scammer will then order victims to make a payment—and will often order them to go to a nearby bank or store and withdraw money or purchase a prepaid card, gift card, or voucher, or ask the victim to buy a money order or make some other wire transfer, money exchange, payment, or withdrawal. (Note that the scammers are often able to direct victims to nearby banks or stores by using online maps to study the area in which a victim resides.)
If you receive a call like that, hang up immediately. These government agencies will never ask for any form of payment over the phone or in an email. If they need payment, they will mail a letter on official stationery requesting payment. Do not give a payment over the phone to anyone who claims to be a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services official. In general, protect your personal information and do not provide details about your immigration application in any public area.
Steps You Can Take
Please report any suspicious calls or emails to the Office of Global Services and Illinois Tech’s Department of Public Safety.
If you have been a victim of this telephone or email scam, please report it to the Federal Trade Commission. If you receive a suspicious email or voice message and are not sure if it is a scam, forward it to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services webmaster at (uscis.webmaster@uscis.dhs.gov). They will review the messages received and share with law enforcement agencies as appropriate. Visit the Avoid Scams Initiative for more information on common scams and other important tips.