ISSS News

June 4, 2025: U.S. Entry Restrictions for Citizens of Certain Countries FAQ

Mitchell Brooks Wolfe — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 20:09:47 +0000

June 4, 2025: U.S. Entry Restrictions for Citizens of Certain Countries FAQ Mitchell Brook… Thu, 06/05/2025 - 14:09

To our international students and scholars who are citizens of the following countries:

Afghanistan
Burundi
Burma
Chad
Cuba
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Haiti
Iran
Laos
Libya
Republic of the Congo
Sierra Leone
Somalia
Sudan
Togo
Turkmenistan
Venezuela
Yemen

Presidential Proclamation Establishing U.S. Entry Restrictions

On June 4, 2025, President Trump issued a presidential proclamation instituting new entry restrictions for foreign nationals who are citizens of the countries listed above. Please see the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) below for details about these new restrictions. The FAQ is based on currently available information. It does not relate to any specific situation and should not be considered legal advice.

Do the new entry restrictions require an international student or scholar who is a citizen of one of the designated countries to leave the United States?

No. The new restrictions do not require anyone from one of the designated countries to depart the United States. The restrictions do not affect the immigration status for those who are already present in the United States. The U.S. government will not ask them to leave the country if they maintain their current immigration status.

How does the new presidential proclamation affect foreign nationals who are citizens of Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen who are (or will be) international students or scholars at the �山�� and wish to enter the United States?

Beginning June 9, 2025, citizens of the 12 countries listed above are barred from entering the United States if they: (1) are not U.S. lawful permanent residents (“green card” holders); (2) are outside the United States on or after that date; and (3) do not have a valid visa prior to June 9, 2025. This restriction applies to both intending nonimmigrants (on temporary visas) and immigrants (those granted lawful permanent residency upon entry).

How does the new presidential proclamation affect foreign nationals who are citizens of Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela who are (or will be) international students or scholars at the �山�� and wish to enter the United States?

As of June 9, 2025, citizens of the seven countries listed above are prohibited from entering the United States if they: (1) are not U.S. lawful permanent residents; (2) are outside the United States on or after that date; and (3) did not hold a valid visa before June 9, 2025. This suspension applies to individuals seeking entry either as immigrants (granted lawful permanent residency upon arrival) or as nonimmigrants on B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, or J visas.

If a student or scholar is from one of the designated countries, does the new presidential proclamation revoke (cancel) their valid visa stamp in their passport?

No. The new proclamation does not revoke (cancel) or in any manner affect the validity of a current U.S. visa.

Do the new entry restrictions apply to someone who is a dual citizen of one of the designated countries and another country?

No. The new entry restrictions do not apply to an individual who is a dual citizen if they present a passport from a non-designated country (i.e. not one of the nineteen named countries) when entering the United States. The U.S. visa stamp must be in the passport from the non-designated country.

When do the new entry restrictions become effective?

The effective date of the new entry restrictions is June 9, 2025.

Can an international student or scholar from one of the designated countries who currently has a valid visa leave the United States and reenter?

If the visa was issued before June 9, 2025, the effective date of the presidential proclamation’s restrictions, and remains valid on the date of reentry to the United States, then the international student or scholar may use the valid visa to reenter the United States. However, given the rapid nature of changes in U.S. entry and travel restrictions, foreign nationals from one of the designated countries should exercise caution and seriously consider potential risks when deciding to travel outside of the United States.

Are there any exceptions to the entry restrictions established by this presidential proclamation?

Yes. The presidential proclamation outlines the following exceptions to the entry restrictions:

Any lawful permanent resident of the United States
Any dual national of a designated country when traveling on a passport issued by a country not so designated
Any foreign national traveling with a valid nonimmigrant visa in the following classifications: A-1, A-2, C-2, C-3, G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1, NATO-2, NATO-3, NATO-4, NATO-5, NATO-6
Any athlete or member of an athletic team — including coaches, support personnel, and immediate relatives — traveling for the World Cup, Olympics, or other major sporting event as determined by the Secretary of State
Immediate family immigrant visas (IR-1/CR-1, IR-2/CR-2, IR-5) with clear and convincing evidence of identity and family relationship (e.g., DNA)
Adoptions (IR-3, IR-4, IH-3, IH-4)
Afghan Special Immigrant Visas
Special Immigrant Visas for U.S. government employees
Immigrant visas for ethnic and religious minorities facing persecution in Iran

Can a citizen of one of the designated countries affected by the entry restrictions request a unique exception under the new presidential proclamation to apply for a visa on or after June 9, 2025, if special circumstances apply?

Yes. Under the new presidential proclamation, the U.S. Attorney General may grant an exception if she finds that the travel by the individual would advance a critical U.S. national interest involving the Department of Justice, including when individuals must be present to participate in criminal proceedings as witnesses. Also, on a case-by-case basis, the U.S. Secretary of State may grant exceptions for individuals for whom he determines that the travel by the individual would serve a U.S. national interest. These exceptions are up to the discretion of the U.S. Attorney General or U.S. Secretary of State.

If an international student or scholar believes that one of the stated exceptions may be applicable to their situation whom should they contact for assistance?

For legal advice about an exception to the entry restrictions, �山�� international students and scholars can reach out to the Colorado Law Immigration Clinic or seek the assistance of a private immigration lawyer or nonprofit legal services provider.

Can International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) share who may be specifically impacted by this presidential proclamation and any future ones?

No. ISSS can provide information generally to the entire community about which groups of students are affected. To protect the privacy of our international students and scholars, we do not provide the exact numbers of individuals from specific, designated countries impacted by immigration policies. ISSS provides individualized advising and information to international students and scholars who may be affected. With any changes in immigration policies or rules that may affect international students and scholars visa status, ISSS sends email messages directly to those impacted and posts the information on their website as well.

Are resources available online to read more about the new entry restrictions?

On the White House website in the Executive/Presidential Actions section, is the text of the presidential proclamation.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)

At �山��, we strive to ensure you feel welcomed, respected, and well-supported. If you have questions, concerns, or just want to chat, ISSS is here for you. You are a valued part of the �山�� community!

Campus Resources

ISSS wants you to know you can always talk to us or use the other resources on campus.

Here are some resources we recommend:

Don’t Ignore It: Report a concern about discrimination and harassment, sexual assault, stalking, abusive conduct, classroom disruptions, and ethics concerns or refer someone you are concerned about.
Students: Use our friendly campus counseling services to talk through feelings of anxiety, loneliness, stress, or just to have someone supportive to talk to.
Faculty and Staff: Reach out to the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program to set up a time to chat with a trained counselor.

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May 30, 2025: Revocation of Chinese student visas

Mitchell Brooks Wolfe — Fri, 30 May 2025 18:52:33 +0000

May 30, 2025: Revocation of Chinese student visas Mitchell Brook… Fri, 05/30/2025 - 12:52

ISSS is aware that the U.S. Department of State has issued a press statement that they will "aggressively" revoke visas for Chinese students with ties to the Chinese Communist party or "studying in critical fields." They do not define "critical fields." The press statement also indicates that the U.S. Department of State will implement measures to enhance scrutiny of visa applications from citizens of China and Hong Kong. No further details are provided. Our office is closely monitoring this situation and will update our community if more information is made available.

ISSS is here for you. We recognize that developments like this can be unsettling for our international community and understandably can cause worry. You're not alone. If you have questions or simply need someone to talk to, contact ISSS.

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May 27, 2025: Important Travel Advisory for Students & Scholars in F & J Status

Mitchell Brooks Wolfe — Tue, 27 May 2025 21:05:36 +0000

May 27, 2025: Important Travel Advisory for Students & Scholars in F & J Status Mitchell Brook… Tue, 05/27/2025 - 15:05

Originally Published: 5/27/2025, Updated: 6/05/2025

The Trump administration has reportedly directed U.S. embassies and consulates to temporarily stop conducting student visa (F-1 and J-1) and Exchange Visitor (J-1) visa interviews and to halt scheduling new visa appointments as it prepares to implement expanded social media screening for international applicants. This includes Exchange Visitor visa appointments for individuals who intend to enter the United States to conduct research, consult, teach, etc. The U.S. consulates and embassies have also paused conducting and scheduling visa interviews for dependents applying for F-2 or J-2 visas.

ISSS is closely monitoring the situation. Until more information is available, we strongly advise current �山�� international students and scholars in F-1 or J-1 status to reconsider any international travel plans if they will need to apply for a new F-1 or J-1 visa to return to the U.S.

We encourage all students and scholars to:

Carefully review the ISSS Travel Webpage
Read our Travel FAQ for important guidance
Stay alert to potential policy changes by regularly checking your CU email and monitoring our Immigration Alerts page

We will share updates as soon as more information becomes available.

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ISSS staff advocate for international education on Capitol Hill

Carolyn Salter — Sat, 26 Apr 2025 15:20:07 +0000

ISSS staff advocate for international education on Capitol Hill Carolyn Salter Sat, 04/26/2025 - 09:20

Chris Hertel and Amrine Obermueller from the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office traveled to Washington, D.C. on April 2 to advocate on behalf of international students and scholars and the future of global education in the United States. While in the nation’s capital, they met directly with Wyoming Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, as well as U.S. Representative Harriet Hageman. Additionally, they held discussions with aides from the offices of Colorado U.S. Representative Jon Neguse and Senator Michael Bennet.

During their meetings, Hertel and Obermueller urged lawmakers to restore critical funding for U.S. Department of State international education and exchange programs. They also advocated for sustained support of these programs as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process. In addition to funding discussions, the ISSS representatives emphasized the importance of Congressional oversight of U.S. visa and immigration systems. They encouraged members of Congress to continue using hearings and legislative actions to ensure these systems remain secure, efficient, and accessible, which strengthens both national security and America’s position as a global leader in education. “Our office is deeply passionate about helping and advocating for international students and scholars,” said Amrine Obermueller. “Their presence enriches our campuses and communities, and we want to ensure they continue to have opportunities to study, grow, and contribute here in the U.S.”

The congressional meetings ISSS staff attended were arranged by NAFSA: Association of International Educators as part of their annual Advocacy Day. Nearly 150 attendees from 37 states and Canada participated in 105 meetings, many of them with members of Congress that sit on the committees that influence immigration and education policy.

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April 25, 2025: Class-action lawsuits, temporary restraining orders, & reinstated student visa records FAQ

Mitchell Brooks Wolfe — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 19:04:07 +0000

April 25, 2025: Class-action lawsuits, temporary restraining orders, & reinstated student visa records FAQ Mitchell Brook… Fri, 04/25/2025 - 13:04

The media has been reporting on various lawsuits, including class-action lawsuits, and resulting temporary restraining orders to stop the termination of immigration status and revocation of visas of international students.

The government has reactivated some terminated international student SEVIS records nationally, including some at �山��. ISSS is monitoring this situation closely and informing impacted students whose immigration status has been reactivated.

If new information comes to light that may affect a visa holder’s eligibility, or if a visa is being revoked, DOS will notify the visa holder by using the email address provided on the DS-160. Therefore, be sure you list an email on your DS-160 you will check regularly during your time at �山��.

See the frequently asked questions (FAQ) below for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do temporary restraining orders from recent lawsuits protect all international students impacted by visa revocations and/or termination of their immigration status?

No. As of this writing (April 25, 2025) temporary restraining orders only protect individuals who are part of the lawsuit.

What is a temporary restraining order?

A temporary restraining order is a short-term court order requiring a person or entity to do or cease doing a specific action.

Who can provide additional information about the pending class-action lawsuits and how to join them?

Please consult with an immigration attorney if you have questions about the class-action lawsuits and the temporary restraining orders. The Immigration Law Clinic may be a resource for additional information. ISSS is not able to answer any questions.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)

We want you to feel welcomed, supported, and safe throughout your time at �山�� and while you're in the United States. If you have questions or just need someone to talk to, ISSS is here to help. You can access both walk-in and remote advising services. Feel free to contact us via email at isss@colorado.edu or call us at 303-492-8057 during our regular office hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For sponsored students, we also offer dedicated walk-in and remote advising. You can reach the Sponsored Student Advising team directly at sponsoredadvising@colorado.edu.

Campus Resources

ISSS wants you to know you can always talk to us or use the other resources on campus. Here are some resources we recommend:

Students: Use our friendly campus counseling services to talk through feelings of anxiety, loneliness, stress, or just to have someone supportive to talk to.
Faculty and Staff: Reach out to the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program to set up a time to chat with a trained counselor.

Thank you for choosing to be part of �山��—we're glad you're here.

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April 24, 2025: Applications for immigration benefits & visa stamps: Review of social media & antisemitic activities FAQ

Carolyn Salter — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 15:47:33 +0000

April 24, 2025: Applications for immigration benefits & visa stamps: Review of social media & antisemitic activities FAQ Carolyn Salter Thu, 04/24/2025 - 09:47

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced on April 9, 2025, that they would begin considering an individual’s “antisemitic activity on social media and the physical harassment of Jewish individuals as grounds for denying immigration benefit requests.” Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released an internal cable requiring a mandatory social media check for certain student (F, M, and J) visa applicants. These actions are related to two of President Trump’s executive orders, one released on Jan. 20, 2025, and the other released on Jan. 29, 2025.

See the frequently asked questions (FAQ) below for more information. FAQs are based on currently available information and relate only to this announcement and cable.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the USCIS guidance become effective?

The guidance took effect on April 9, 2025.

Who is affected by this guidance?

It applies to individuals who are not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents including foreign nationals holding nonimmigrant (temporary) visa status such as but not limited to international students and scholars.

What is an “immigration benefit?”

An immigration benefit is any benefit that derives from an application that one files with the USCIS. Examples include an application for an employment authorization document (work permit) to engage in Optional Practical Training and an application to change one’s nonimmigrant status from Exchange Visitor (J-1) to H-1B status.

What content is the USCIS looking for on social media?

According to the USCIS news release, they will “consider social media content that indicates an alien endorsing, espousing, promoting, or supporting antisemitic terrorism, antisemitic terrorist organizations, or other antisemitic activity.”

What will happen if the USCIS finds any content that they think meets this definition on one’s social media?

According to the USCIS news release, the USCIS will consider any such social media content “as a negative factor in any USCIS discretionary analysis when adjudicating immigration benefit requests.”

Will this announcement impact one’s ability to get a visa stamp at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad.

USCIS is not the government agency that issues visa stamps. The U.S. Department of State (DOS) is the government agency that approves or denies visa applications at U.S. consulates and embassies outside of the United States.

Does the U.S. Department of State (DOS) review visa applicants’ social media for such content?

Earlier this month, the DOS released an internal cable stating that “consular officers must refer certain student and exchange visitor (F, M, and J) visa applicants to the Fraud Prevention Unit (FPU) for a mandatory social media check…” The internal cable has not been released to the public.

Does the DOS cable indicate what criteria they will use to determine when a mandatory social media check will be required before visa issuance?

The DOS cable states that all new or returning F-1 or J-1 student visa applications meeting one of the following criteria must have a mandatory social media check done before visa issuance:

The consular officer has “reason to believe” that the applicant “has openly advocated for a designated foreign terrorist organization;”
The applicant was previously in the United States in F-1, M-1, or J-1 visa status between Oct. 7, 2023, and Aug. 31, 2024; or
The applicant has a previous SEVIS record that was terminated between Oct. 7, 2023, and the present.

Will this impact processing times for applications for new or continuing student visas?

Most like yes. The consular officers will likely require mandatory social media checks for some visa applicants, and that will slow down the visa issuance process since the DOS cannot issue the visa until the check is completed. For students planning on applying for a visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy during summer break, plan on applying early in the summer and expect delays.

Will this internal DOS cable impact an international student in F-1 or J-1 visa status who is in the United States in valid nonimmigrant status with a valid visa in their passport?

Perhaps. The cable directs consular officers to review valid visas in accordance with this guidance and determine if there is a basis to request that the DOS revoke the visa. The cable states that not only a finding of support for terrorist activity or a terrorist organization but also one that the visa holder “bears a hostile attitude toward U.S. citizens or U.S. culture including government, institutions, or founding principles” may be considered.

If the DOS revokes someone’s visa how will the DOS notify them?

DOS is supposed to send an email message to the email address that the individual used when they applied for the visa, so one should check that email account (including the junk folder) regularly for any emails from the DOS.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)

For sponsored students, we also offer dedicated walk-in and remote advising. You can reach the Sponsored Student Advising team directly at sponsoredadvising@colorado.edu.

Campus Resources

ISSS wants you to know you can always talk to us or use the other resources on campus. Here are some resources we recommend:

Students: Use our friendly campus counseling services to talk through feelings of anxiety, loneliness, stress, or just to have someone supportive to talk to.
Faculty and Staff: Reach out to the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program to set up a time to chat with a trained counselor.

Thank you for choosing to be part of �山��—we're glad you're here.

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REAL ID requirement for domestic travel in the U.S. FAQ

Mitchell Brooks Wolfe — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 21:52:49 +0000

REAL ID requirement for domestic travel in the U.S. FAQ Mitchell Brook… Fri, 04/18/2025 - 15:52

Effective May 7, 2025, travelers in the U.S. must present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you prepare for this new requirement. Since this is a new requirement, there may be additional updates or exceptions as implementation progresses. ISSS is actively monitoring this issue and will include updates in our e-newsletter as more information becomes available.

What is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a state-issued

driver’s license or identification card that meets increased security standards established by the federal government. Beginning May 7, 2025, travelers will need a REAL ID or another form of TSA-approved identification to fly domestically within the U.S.

In Colorado, the driver's license or state ID has a star in the top right corner to show it is REAL ID compliant.

Can international students and scholars get a REAL ID in Colorado?

Unfortunately, Colorado does not issue REAL ID-compliant licenses or IDs to individuals who are temporarily lawfully present in the U.S., including those in F-1, J-1, or H-1B status.

What are the alternatives if I can’t get a REAL ID?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts several other forms of identification at airport checkpoints, including a foreign government-issued passport and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Cards (I-766) (EAD Card).

Please review the complete list of acceptable documents on the official TSA website.

What if I don’t have my passport with me at the time of travel?

This concern often arises during passport renewal or when applying for a visa to travel to a third country from within the U.S., particularly if the consulate is located outside of Colorado. For example, if your passport is temporarily held by your home country’s consulate during a passport renewal process, you may not have it available for your return domestic flight.

In this case, ISSS recommends:

Contacting your airline and the TSA at your departure airport in advance to explain your situation and ask if a certified copy of your passport will be accepted or if they can provide alternative guidance.
Contacting the consulate to inquire whether expedited processing is possible, allowing you to retain your passport prior to your return to Colorado.
Considering alternative transportation, such as train or car travel, if feasible.

Will there be any changes or exceptions to this requirement?

Because the REAL ID rule is still being implemented, there may be updates or exceptions announced by the federal government or TSA. ISSS will continue to monitor developments and will share relevant updates through our newsletter and website.

Legal Requirement to Carry Immigration Registration Document

Beyond the REAL ID requirement, to comply with this legal requirement, nonimmigrants and lawful permanent residents should carry a printed copy of their I-94 Arrival-Departure Record or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). It is also recommended that individuals carry hard copies of relevant immigration status documents such as their Form I-20, Form DS-2019, or valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD card). This is not a new requirement, but historically it was rarely enforced.

We understand that this change may cause concern, particularly for international scholars and students without access to a REAL ID. As always, ISSS is here to support you. If you have questions about your travel plans or identification options, don’t hesitate to contact our office. We’ll continue to share updates as we receive them.

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April 17, 2025: Registration requirement for dependents who turn 14 years old FAQ

Mitchell Brooks Wolfe — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 17:26:18 +0000

April 17, 2025: Registration requirement for dependents who turn 14 years old FAQ Mitchell Brook… Thu, 04/17/2025 - 11:26

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a rule on March 12, 2025, announcing a new registration requirement. Among other things, the new rule requires minor dependents in nonimmigrant visa status – such as but not limited to F-2, J-2 and H-4 status – to register with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) when they turn 14 years old.

See the frequently asked questions (FAQ) below for more information. FAQs are based on currently available information and relate only to this rule.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the new rule become effective?

The order took effect on April 11, 2025.

Who is affected by this rule?

It applies to all minors who are not U.S. citizens, including foreign nationals holding nonimmigrant (temporary) visa status and permanent residents (“green card” holders).

Does this affect international students and scholars and their dependents who were 14 years old or older on April 11, 2025, and have valid nonimmigrant status (F, J, H, etc.)?

No. Only individuals who were younger than 14 years old on April 11, 2025, must register with the USCIS when they turn 14 years old if they are in the United States.

What steps are required to register a nonimmigrant or “green card” holder when they turn 14 years old?

The USCIS website provides instructions on how the minor can register for a USCIS online account and submit Form G-325R, the registration application. Once the form has been reviewed by the USCIS, they will determine if fingerprints and photos are needed. If such steps are needed, the USCIS will schedule an appointment for the minor at a USCIS Applications Support Center to have their fingerprints and photo taken. Please read the USCIS website carefully for detailed instructions.

Is there a fee charged for the minor to register?

No, a nonimmigrant or “green card” holder who turns 14 years old does not need to pay a fee to register with the USCIS.

Can a minor who turns 14 years old register with USCIS using their parent’s USCIS online account.

No. The USCIS website instructions state that the minor must set up their own USCIS online account to register.

Do children under 14 years old and holding dependent visa status (for example F-2, J-2, or H-4 status) need to register now?

No. Only when a nonimmigrant turns 14 years old do they need to register with USCIS.

Is there a “grace period” for a minor to register with the USCIS once they turn 14 years old?

The minor must register within 30 days of turning 14 years old.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)

We want you to feel supported, safe, and comfortable during your time at �山�� and in the United States. If you need to talk or have any questions, we are here for you. ISSS offers walk-in and remote advising. You can also reach us via our general email account isss@colorado.edu or by phone at 303-492-8057 during normal office hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For our sponsored students, ISSS offers specific walk-in and remote advising and our Sponsored Student Advising team can be reached directly at sponsoredadvising@colorado.edu.

Campus Resources

ISSS wants you to know you can always talk to us or use the other resources on campus. Here are some resources we recommend:

Students: Use our friendly campus counseling services to talk through feelings of anxiety, loneliness, stress, or just to have someone supportive to talk to.
Faculty and Staff: Reach out to the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program to set up a time to chat with a trained counselor.

We are glad that you have chosen to be a part of the �山�� community. ISSS is here to assist you so please reach out to us if you need anything.

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April 8, 2025: Concerns about international student and/or scholar visa revocations

Mitchell Brooks Wolfe — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 21:28:54 +0000

April 8, 2025: Concerns about international student and/or scholar visa revocations Mitchell Brook… Tue, 04/08/2025 - 15:28

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and campus leadership are aware that the federal government’s terminations of international students’ visa status throughout the country are causing anxiety and uncertainty among international students and scholars. Recently, the CU System office issued this statement regarding recent student visa terminations impacting our community. On our campus, the ISSS team is working diligently to provide information and direct support to any impacted students and the international community.

April 25 Update: Class-action lawsuits, temporary restraining orders, & reinstated student visa records FAQ

ISSS continues to regularly access the federal immigration database for changes to students’ visa records, and ISSS will directly communicate with any impacted students. Our office will reach out to schools, departments, and units on campus should we require their assistance. Please do not contact ISSS inquiring if one’s visa or immigration status has been revoked or terminated. ISSS will immediately notify individuals if the government has taken negative action on their immigration record.
If new information comes to light that may affect a visa holder’s eligibility, or if a visa is being revoked, DOS will notify the visa holder by using the email address provided on the DS-160. Therefore, be sure you list an email on your DS-160 you will check regularly during your time at �山��.
Visa holders who find their visas or status revoked or terminated and have not been contacted by ISSS are encouraged to immediately contact ISSS and their national embassy. For additional assistance, visa holders whose visas have been revoked and/or immigration status terminated may also contact the Immigration Clinic at the �山�� Law School. To enable the Immigration Clinic to focus on serving impacted individuals, please do not contact the clinic with general inquiries.
Continue to read the Immigration News Alerts on the ISSS website, access in-person and remote advising, email ISSS, and read ISSS News. The sole focus of ISSS remains on supporting the international community on campus, and those international students and scholars who need support may send emails to isss@colorado.edu or phone 303-492-8057 to get connected with an ISSS advisor.

�山�� values international students and scholars and their contributions to the university’s academic and research missions, and ISSS is committed to supporting international students, scholars, and their dependents.

More information, including what to do if a student, scholar or employee is contacted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials, is available on the Undocumented Status Resources page and the university’s internal Federal Transition site with IdentiKey login credentials. Students and scholars may also find additional guidance and related “know your rights” resources on the ISSS website.

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March 18, 2025: Serious considerations if traveling outside of the United States FAQ

Mitchell Brooks Wolfe — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 15:27:51 +0000

March 18, 2025: Serious considerations if traveling outside of the United States FAQ Mitchell Brook… Tue, 03/18/2025 - 09:27

International students and scholars planning to travel outside the United States should carefully consider the complexities of U.S. immigration laws. ISSS, with support from university and campus leadership, urges international visa holders to consider potential future policy changes—such as travel bans currently being reported in the media—that could impact their return.

See the frequently asked questions (FAQ) below for details. As of this writing, ISSS does not have any official information released by the federal government about any impending travel bans or other changes in U.S. immigration policies. FAQs are based on currently available information and do not relate to any specific situation.

Ultimately one is responsible for their own decision whether to travel outside of the United States. This FAQ is to help you make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Has the federal government issued a travel ban for citizens of certain countries?

No, the federal government has not issued a travel ban or taken any other official action that impacts a visa holder’s ability to reenter the United States after traveling abroad.

In the news, they are reporting about an upcoming potential travel ban for citizens of up to 43 countries. Why is this being reported now?

President Trump issued an executive order on Jan. 20 instituting increased review of applications for U.S. immigration benefits including visas and admission to the United States. That order required that, within 60 days, a report be submitted to the president identifying countries whose citizens should be subject to a full or partial ban on entering the United States. Day 60 will be Friday, March 21. Please read the FAQ published on the ISSS website on Jan. 23 for more details about the previous executive order.

If there is no travel ban currently in place, why should a visa holder worry about traveling outside of the United States now?

Given that the report mentioned above is due to the president on March 21, the federal government may issue a travel ban shortly after that date and it could apply to visa holders outside of the United States, preventing them from reentering. If that happens, the CU system administration, �山��, and ISSS do not have the authority to influence government officials to admit international students and scholars impacted by any possible travel ban(s).

How can visa holders know in advance what citizens of which countries may be part of a future travel ban(s)?

There is no method to accurately predict which countries’ citizens may be impacted. The press is reporting a potential list of countries, but that is not official and therefore subject to change.

If a travel ban is issued, will visa holders who are citizens of the impacted countries need to depart the country?

The university cannot speculate on what the contents of any future changes in immigration policy may be or require. However, ISSS will send email messages directly to all international students and scholars impacted by any changes. ISSS will also post an update on their Immigration Alerts website.

Would U.S. lawful permanent residents (“green card” holders) be impacted by any future travel ban(s) or other immigration policy changes?

It is impossible to foresee with certainty whether future travel ban(s) or other policy changes could impact “green card” holders. Checking the ISSS Immigration Alerts website is the best way to obtain information about U.S. immigration policy changes and whom they impact.

If someone has a valid visa stamp in their passport and possesses all necessary immigration documents (such as Form I-20, an approval notice, or Form DS-2019), are they guaranteed entry into the United States?

No, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPB) official at the airport or land border makes the determination whether to admit someone as a nonimmigrant each time the person presents their immigration documents and seeks admission to the country. Please read this ISSS website for tips on what visa holders should keep in mind when seeking to reenter the United States after foreign travel.

If there is a change in U.S. immigration policies that impact a campus visa holder’s ability to travel or be in the United States, how will they know?

ISSS will promptly email international students and scholars who are citizens of countries that are specifically impacted by changes in U.S. immigration policies, including travel ban(s). ISSS will also publish a FAQ on their Immigration Alerts website.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)

We want you to feel welcomed, secure, and well-supported throughout your time at �山�� and in the US. If you need to talk or have any questions, ISSS is here for you.

Campus Resources

ISSS wants you to know you can always talk to us or use the other resources on campus. Here are some resources we recommend:

Don’t Ignore It: Report a concern about discrimination and harassment, sexual assault, stalking, abusive conduct, classroom disruptions, and ethics concerns or refer someone you are concerned about.
Students: Use our friendly campus counseling services to talk through feelings of anxiety, loneliness, stress, or just to have someone supportive to talk to.
Faculty and Staff: Reach out to the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program to set up a time to chat with a trained counselor.

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