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Global Engagement

Office of the Provost

Updates and Information on the Federal Immigration Executive Order

University response to proposed regulatory change to Duration of Status (D/S) rules [9/30/2020]

As you may be aware, on September 25, 2020, the Department of Homeland Security published a proposed regulatory change to the Duration of Status (D/S) rules for students and scholars in F-1 and J-1 categories. The D/S is stamped on your I-94 card, which you receive upon admission to the United States. For more information, the ISO has issued a response.

Statement and Proclamation on June 22 Executive Order on Immigration

On June 22, President Trump signed a new executive order on immigration, part of which suspends the processing of H-1B visas that allow some of the world’s most talented faculty, postdoctoral associates, and research scientists the opportunity to come to Rochester to teach,  conduct critical research, and practice medicine.  This pause on H-1B visas is in effect through the end of December, but it does not apply to visa-holders already in the U.S., or those outside the country who have already been issued valid visas.

The University is continuing to closely monitor developments related to this executive order to assess its impact on the University of Rochester community. Over the past several months, the University has strongly advocated through our Congressional delegation for the protection of H-1B programs, as well as the Optional Training Program (OPT) because of both program’s importance to not only Rochester as a tier-1 research university and a top academic medical center, but to all of higher education.  There were no restrictions announced today for OPT, which allows international students the option to study in the United States and then stay in the country for time-limited, practical work experience upon completion of their degree.

The University is a truly global institution, and we highly value the H-1B visa program. Our international students, faculty, physicians, and staff contribute in innumerable ways to the academic and cultural life of the University, the health of our community and international collaboration and exchanges have long been a hallmark of the educational and research experiences Rochester is known. We will continue University sponsorship and document issuance for all eligible foreign nationals and provide ongoing guidance on this executive order.

For more details on this executive order, please see the proclamation summary provided by the International Services Office (ISO).

Officials from ISO are available to offer support.  Please contact Ravi Shankar, Assistant Vice Provost and Director International Services Office, at ravi.shankar@rochester.edu, or Kathy Strout, Associate Director, Scholar Services, at Kathleen.strout@rochester.edu.

Proclamation 10043

On May 29, 2020, President Trump issued a proclamation suspending and limiting the entry to the United States of some Chinese graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in specific fields that advance the People Republic of China’s “military-civil fusion strategy.” For more information, please see the ISO Summaries of Executive Orders and Other Actions.

UCSIS Policy

On August 9, 2018, a new policy from US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) took effect that relates specifically to individuals in F, J, and M nonimmigrant visa categories. The policy specifically targets F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and dependent families, and relates to valid status and lawful presence within the US while pursuing their program of study or other authorized activities. ISO has prepared a summary of the policy memorandum. Additionally, several information sessions are now scheduled for discussion and questions on the new policy. This is an important immigration topic for F-1 and J-1 populations to be aware of since it can have long-term implications and unintended, severe consequences.

ISO has planned several information sessions to cover the new policies and ways to maintain legal F or J status. Sessions are open to international populations, as well as interested staff or faculty. Our first session will also be recorded and posted online.

It is extremely important for our F-1 and J-1 populations, along with their dependent family members, to take every effort to maintain their valid immigration status at all times. A few reminders about these requirements include:

  • Register full-time each academic term and maintain a full course of study, as indicated on the I-20 or DS-2019
  • Do NOT work off-campus without prior written authorization from ISO
  • Limit on-campus employment to a maximum of 20 hours per week during academic terms
  • Obtain authorizations in advance for extensions, reduced course load, leave of absence, transfer to another school, etc.
  • Report any change in address within 10 days of moving

US DACA Update

Limited Window Opens for DACA Renewals

Members of the University community who have previously been granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals or “DACA” should seriously consider applying for renewal in light of the recent announcement that USCIS has resumed accepting DACA renewal requests. Given ongoing legal challenges and legislative debates, there is no guarantee how long this window will remain open, so all who might potentially benefit from this opportunity are encouraged by the International Services Office (ISO) to consult with immigration experts and legal services who stand ready to advise and assist in this process.

Local resources include the Legal Aid Society of Rochester (lasroc.org; 585-232-4090) and the Volunteer Legal Services Project of Monroe County (vlsprochester.org; 585-232-3051). Assistance for those unable to afford the significant filing fee is available and ISO encourages those interested in helping to visit give.funderbolt.io/uofr/emergency-funding-for-daca-students. Contact ISO Director Cary Jensen at questions@iso.rochester.edu or 585-275-2866 for additional information.

On September 5, 2017, President Trump issued a statement regarding plans to rescind the Obama Administration program known as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA. This action is formalized in a memorandum, published the same date, from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) entitled Rescission of the June 15, 2012, Memorandum Entitled “Exercising Prosecutorial Discretion with Respect to Individuals Who Came to the United States as Children”. The purpose of the memo is to instruct various government agencies about the rationale, mechanisms, and timeline associated with discontinuing the DACA program. ISO has summarized the main provisions of the memo and related guidance in the Immigration Action Summary.

For other resources and to submit any questions or concerns, please see the Recent Immigration Actions & Policies page.

Expanded Travel Ban Announced

On September 24, 2017, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a proclamation, supplementing the March 6 Executive Order (13780), which had imposed a temporary ban on visa issuance and entry to the United States for nationals from six specified countries. The September 24 proclamation amended the list of countries affected (removing Iraq, Afghanistan, and Sudan and adding Chad, North Korea, and Venezuela) and changed the previous restrictions from temporary to indefinite.

This recent expansion of the travel ban is set to take effect on October 18, 2017. The impact on each country and the individuals seeking to travel to the United States from those countries is quite different, ranging from a relatively limited suspension of visitor visas for certain Venezuelan government officials and their immediate family members to a sweeping suspension on entry to the United States of nationals, immigrant and nonimmigrant, from North Korea and Syria.

There will likely be forthcoming official clarifications on these restrictions as well as legal challenges that might impact how they will be interpreted and implemented. We encourage any student or scholar from the affected countries, especially those from the eight countries included in the recent proclamation (Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen), to seek updated information and advice and to consult with an ISO advisor prior to traveling outside the United States or before doing anything that might affect their current immigration status.

Please visit the ISO’s Recent Immigration Actions page as well as the Office of Global Engagement’s Immigration Updates page for updates on this and other important immigration-related matters as they develop.

US Supreme Court Update

On June 26, 2017, the US Supreme Court issued a ruling that lifts some of the judicial limitations previously imposed on Executive Order 13780, which includes provisions to restrict citizens from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen from entering the country (see background).  This ruling permits the government to enforce these travel restrictions within a limited scope.  Specifically, the Supreme Court indicates that the order “may not be enforced against foreign nationals who have a credible claim of a bona fide relationship with a person or entity in the United States.”  Examples in the ruling cite admitted students from the designated countries as having such a relationship with a US entity, as well as workers who have accepted an offer of employment in the US or a lecturer invited to address an American audience.

The University continues to monitor developments related to these Executive Orders and any resulting US agency policies or enforcement practices.  At this time, it is our understanding that individuals with a formal and documented relationship with the University of Rochester should NOT be subject to the travel restrictions of EO 13780.  We will continue University sponsorship and document issuance for all eligible foreign nationals.

Officials from the University’s International Services Office (ISO) continue to strongly recommend that students, scholars, and employees from the affected countries speak with an ISO staff member in advance of any international travel needs.  The Global Engagement Immigration Updates page has full information on the University resources for students and employees to use, as well as all executive orders to date.  ISO staff members can be reached at questions@iso.rochester.edu.

Background Summary: President Trump signed Executive Order 13780 on March 6, 2017, replacing an earlier version (EO 13769) that was issued on January 27th and faced previous legal challenges.  Prior to the effective date of the new order on March 16th, Federal courts issued injunctions to prevent the government from enforcing certain travel restrictions and suspension of refugee admissions.  The cases were appealed to the Supreme Court, which has agreed to consider arguments this fall and to allow enforcement of the EO with respect to foreign nationals who lack any bona fide relationship with a US person or entity.  For more details, please reference the official Supreme Court opinion in this matter.

University Statement on Presidential Executive Order

“Yesterday, President Trump signed a new Executive Order that restricts citizens from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen who do not currently have a valid visa from entering the United States. This order replaces EO 13769 issued on January 27, 2017, and will go into effect on March 16, 2017. The University is continuing to monitor developments related to these Executive Orders to assess their impact on the University of Rochester community and future University students. We will continue University sponsorship and document issuance for all eligible foreign nationals.

“International faculty, students, and staff contribute in innumerable ways to the academic and cultural life of the University of Rochester and make our campus ever better. The University is stronger because of their presence here, and our community and our world benefit from their contributions. We are committed to providing support in every lawful way we can.

“Officials from the University’s International Services Office (ISO) continue to strongly recommend that students, scholars, and employees from the affected countries who plan to travel internationally speak with an ISO staff member before leaving the U.S. The Global Engagement Immigration Updates page has full information on the University resources for students and employees to use, as well as all executive orders to date. ISO staff members can be reached at questions@iso.rochester.edu.”

Guidance on University sponsorship practices related to this order

 

WATCH: Town Hall on Immigration Issues and the University Community

February 1, 2017

AAU President Memorandum

The Association of American Universities (AAU), of which the University of Rochester is a member, filed an amicus brief. The impact to all schools, including the UofR, is included.

 

UR Issued Statements

 

President Statement on DACA

Statement from President Joel Seligman

 

President, Provost, and Medical Center CEO Statement on Immigration Orders

Statement from President Joel Seligman, Provost and Senior Vice President for Research Robert L. Clark, and CEO of the Medical Center and UR Medicine, and Senior Vice President for Health Sciences Mark Taubman

 

Vice Provost for Global Engagement Statement on Immigration Orders

Statement from Vice Provost for Global Engagement, Jane Gatewood

University Resources

International Services Office: Rely on experienced professionals familiar with current immigration and travel permissions for planning and support. Referrals to qualified immigration attorneys available.

Contact: International Services Office, questions@iso.rochester.edu, (585) 275-2866, 213 Morey Hall

ISO Summaries: Executive Orders & Other Actions: The ISO has created brief descriptions outlining important details of recent Executive Orders on immigration policy and other actions that impact our international community.

Paul J. Burgett Intercultural Center (BIC) exists to promote cultural awareness and engagement, educate on issues of identity, culture, and diversity, and provide opportunities for collaboration among students, staff, and faculty.

Academic & Other Advisers: Consider contacting your school/department for support and referrals to other University resources. Depending on your University affiliation, such offices could include:

University Counseling Center: Services are available for a wide variety of challenges that can include anxiety, depression, school-related problems, family problems, and grief. UCC has a professional on-call 24 hours per day for emergencies. Visits are confidential.

Contact: University Counseling Center, UHS Building, 738 Library Road, (585) 275-3113

CARE Network: Members of UR community can submit a referral (https://www.rochester.edu/care/) to request assistance, for themselves or a peer, and become connected to available resources.

Contact: CARE Network, carenetwork@rochester.edu, (585) 275-4085

Interfaith Chapel: Chaplains are available by appointment or often by visiting the Interfaith Chapel any day between 10 and 6 (and frequently later). Visits are confidential.

Contact: The Rev. Dr. C. Denise Yarbrough, Director, Religious and Spiritual Life, Interfaith Chapel,
500 Joseph C. Wilson Blvd., (585) 275-8422, dyarbrough@admin.rochester.edu

 

Community Resources

Legal Resources: Legal Aid Society of Rochester, Volunteer Legal Service Project of Monroe County

Additional Assistance

The European Molecular Biology Organisation (EMBO) has set up The Science Solidarity List, a list of scientists offering temporary bench or desk space, library access and possibly even accommodation for US-based scientists who are stranded abroad due to the Executive Order.
If you know a US-based scientist affected by this ban, you may direct them to this list of scientists who may be able to offer some assistance.

For more information, visit The Solidarity List: http://www.embo.org/science-solidarity

FAQs

Q: As a foreign national, can I travel domestically (within the US)?
A: Yes. Always carry valid immigration documentation even if you are traveling domestically. We have no indication from the executive order that there should be any issue for domestic travel. If you were to be asked questions it is important you can demonstrate your ability to be in the country legally. For international students, that is: your I-20/DS-2019, your I-94, and your passport (with visa if applicable). For staff, the documents vary but you want to be able to demonstrate your legal and professional relationship with the university.
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Q: Can I travel internationally? Will I be able to renew my visa? (For students who are not from the 7 countries listed.)
A: Yes. There is always risk in travel. If you are prepared and you have your documentation we don’t necessarily see any issues – except for the Visa Interview Waiver program, which has been suspended.
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Q: Will I be able to renew my visa? (For students who are not from the 7 countries listed.)
A: Yes, you will be able to renew your visa, but we do anticipate visa processing delays.
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Q: UR indicated that it will not release any information except what is required. Can you expand on what that info is that will be released?
A: We have to report some information in the Student and Exchange Visitor Program database (SEVIS) for international students in the US on our visa sponsorship. Beyond that, we do not share information. Info in SEVIS includes citizenship, DOB, passport name, and the rest is mostly academic: funding sources, registration, local residential address. We will continue to maintain that reporting obligation because it is how we maintain legal status for our students.
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Q: Will new countries be added? Which ones are likely? Should all non-citizens stay in the US just in case?
A: There is a 90 day period in which Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Department of State (DOS) review requirements for entry for all countries. The order indicates that if countries fail to comply, they may be added to the list. It is possible that countries could be added to the list if they are determined to not comply. In approximately 25 days we should learn if any other countries will be added.
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Q: Will UR continue to issue I-20s and DS-2019 and other sponsorship documents for these 7 countries?
A: Yes, we will issue documents to any individual who meets requirements of the immigration regulations and qualifications to be sponsored as a student or scholar. The burden is on the government to evaluate that candidate from a visa issuance perspective. Issuance does not mean individuals will automatically be able to obtain entry to US or benefits through United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), but you will not have any problem getting documents or assistance in preparing application.
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Q: Will the University continue to admit students from these 7 countries?
A: Yes, we will admit eligible students, subject to application guidelines and eligibility. The university does not consider country of citizenship as criteria for admission. Once a student is admitted, if entry into the US will be a problem the department will reach out to ISO.
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Q: Is it possible for the university to make a plan to continue research/studies abroad for students who can’t come back?
A: Once students are matriculated if they are having difficulties completing their program in-person, accommodations will be reviewed and made on a case-by-case basis, subject to approval by their academic program and school. The University is supportive of such possibilities.
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Q: What would happen if a student, faculty or staff member gets stuck at the border (i.e. country of origin or travel from one of 7 countries but not a citizen of one of those 7 countries)? Could they contact the school?
A: Absolutely – please contact ISO at 585-275-2866. We have routinely spoken to immigration officers at the airport and borders. We also have staff available after-hours if we have travelers running into those circumstances. Call public safety, 585-275-3333 – they will contact an advisor.Our Travel assistance providers can also offer legal referral services and help you contact the consulate office, make travel arrangements etc.

Available to faculty, staff, and students traveling on University business (includes inbound international students and scholars, dependent children, and spouses):
Europ Assist
1 (888) 987-5920 from U.S.
1 (240) 330-1571 from International / accepts collect
https://www.rochester.edu/working/hr/files/MedEx-Wallet-Card.pdf

Available to faculty, staff and students traveling on University sponsored/supported international travel (includes dependent children & spouses):
Mercer Assistance Services
1 (855) 327-1469 from U.S.
1 (312) 935-3542 from international / accepts collect
https://www.rochester.edu/global/documents/internal/UnivOfRochesterTravelAssistanceBrochureIDCard.pdf
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Q: What if anything has the university done to support ongoing legal orders? Would the university take any legal action against the US government?
A: There have been a number of lawsuits started against the executive order. Some have been instituted by states, which are more effective parties than a single institution like UR. We are collaborative and there are consortia-based organizations like the American Association of Universities where we can combine our resources with other institutions, and we will continue to work with these organizations and our peers. In addition, there are organizations within the country that exist to fight racism such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
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Q: I’m from one of the banned countries, and I’m graduating in a month or so. I have a job offer from an employer for an H1B. Can they proceed with that for me?
A: There has been no official statement, but we still do not know if they are going to give immigration benefits (such as conversion to a new visa type) from USCIS. But definitely, proceed with the job offer.
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Q: If I am prohibited from traveling and the school year ends, will the university provide assistance for staying in the USA over the summer?
A: The university will provide assistance to students who need accommodation over the summer if they are restricted from traveling. More details on this support will be available should the need arise.
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Funds will support the University of Rochester’s global engagement, supporting initiatives of institutional priority across all schools, clusters, and institutes. Initiatives may include student and faculty mobility, partnership development and support, international student and scholar support, as well as research and other collaborative activities. Funds may support activities or initiatives that occur on- or off-campus.

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