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Immigration Policy Updates

VIS actively monitors changes to U.S. immigration regulations and guidance that may affect our students, exchange visitors, and campus partners. On this page, you’ll find recent announcements from both the university and VIS, along with current immigration updates to help you make informed decisions—whether you're studying, conducting research, working in the U.S., or planning international travel.

Announcements:

SBU Office of the Provost: Updates on Recent Immigration Actions (04/15/2025)

SBU Office of the Provost: Information on Recent Immigration Actions (04/10/2025)

SBU Visa and Immigration Services: Summer Travel, What You Need to Know Now (04/10/2025)

SBU Office of the President: Support for International Students (03/21/2025)

 

Travel Guidance

Planning international travel? Find out which documents you should carry and get answers to common questions about reentry to the U.S.

Students Scholars & Employees
F-1 Students Travel & Re-Entry J-1 Scholars Travel & Re-Entry
J-1 Students Travel & Re-Entry H-1B Scholars Travel & Re-Entry

For the latest travel guidance and important updates, be sure to check our Travel Alerts page

 

Policy Updates & Directives

Stay informed on the latest federal immigration policy changes that may impact your visa status or benefit eligibility. This section highlights key updates from DHS, USCIS, and the Department of State

carrying immigration documents and reporting address changes

U.S. immigration law requires all nonimmigrants and lawful permanent residents to carry proof of their immigration status and to report any change of address within 10 days. While these requirements have long been in place, failure to comply can lead to serious consequences. With increased attention on immigration enforcement, it’s essential to stay compliant.

What You Must Carry

Under Section 264(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, all non-U.S. citizens age 18 and older must carry valid proof of immigration status at all times—even during domestic travel or daily activities.

You must carry one of the following:

  • F-1/J-1 students and other nonimmigrants: I-94 record or Employment Authorization Document (EAD card)
  • Lawful permanent residents: Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551 or “green card”)
How to Report a Change of Address

All noncitizens living in the United States must report any change of address within 10 days of moving.

For students in F-1 or J-1 status (including those on OPT, STEM OPT, or Academic Training) all changes of address should be done in SOLAR.

Click here for detailed instructions

DHS to Begin Screening Social Media Activity for Antisemitism

USCIS announced on April 9, 2025 that they will begin factoring in non-immigrants' social media activity that reflects antisemitic views or actions when reviewing immigration benefit requests. This includes:

  • Antisemitic content or behavior on social media
  • Physical harassment of Jewish individuals
  • Affiliation with educational institutions linked to antisemitic activity

These factors may be used to deny immigration benefits on discretionary grounds. Affected benefit types may include:

  • Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) applications
  • F-1 or J-1 status requests, including OPT and STEM OPT
  • Change of status
  • Reinstatement
  • Other benefits subject to discretionary review

Specifically, USCIS will view social media content that endorses, promotes, or supports antisemitic terrorism, terrorist organizations, or related activity as a negative discretionary factor during adjudication.

Registration Requirement

Starting April 11, 2025, USCIS will enforce a new USCIS alien registration process  for certain foreign nationals staying in the U.S. for 30 days or longer.

This requirement primarily affects dependents in F-2, H-4, J-2, O-3 status who entered before age 14. Most nonimmigrants who entered the U.S. at age 14+ are already automatically registered (as evidenced by the Form I-94) and DON'T need to re-register. 

See the USCIS Alien Registration FAQ for a list of aliens who are considered already registered.

Revised Visa Interview Waiver Policy Announced

On February 18, 2025, the Department of State announced an Interview Waiver Update that changes the eligibility requirements for nonimmigrant visa applicants who may qualify for an in-person visa interview waiver.  

Previously, interview waivers were available for those whose visas had expired within 48 months, a flexibility introduced to address post-COVID backlogs. These new restrictions will reduce the number of eligible applicants, increasing the need for in-person appointments and likely leading to longer visa processing times.

Now, nonimmigrant visa applicants may qualify for an interview waiver only if they are renewing a visa in the same category and:

  • Their prior visa is still valid, or
  • It expired within the past 12 months

Consular officers may still require in-person interviews on a case-by-case basis or because of local conditions. Check the U.S. embassy or consulate in your region for detailed information about visa application requirements and procedures.

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