Important Information for the FSU International Community

Many of you are seeking answers related to the recent Executive Order issued by President Trump and are expressing concerns about possible changes in policy or regulations that could affect you. The Center for Global Engagement staff will do their best to provide information and guidance as information regarding any changes becomes available. There are also other resources that can provide more detailed information.

Executive Order: Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States, January 27, 2017

This order includes provisions that directly affect our student and scholar populations, along with the departments who host them. Among other things, the Order affects travel abroad and entry to the U.S. for individuals from Libya, Iran, Iraq, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. On January 29, the Department of Homeland Security released a fact sheet with an exception to the entry ban for Lawful Permanent Residents of the United States who are traveling with a valid “green card.” However, lawful permanent residents will be assessed at the arrival ports of entry, and will be permitted entry subject to security checks.

Travel Advisory: Students or scholars who are nationals of one of the specified countries and who are currently in the U.S. in nonimmigrant status should not travel outside the U.S. U.S. Legal Permanent Residents, dual passport holders and dual nationals should consult an experienced immigration attorney before making plans to travel abroad.

Employment authorization, OPT, STEM OPT, the J-1 Visa, etc.:

At this time there is no clear information about what actual changes we will see related to any particular visa category. The CGE will provide updates as soon as we get any information about changes. In the meantime, we will continue to accept/process applications for OPT, STEM extensions, etc.,

ALERT: Recommendations for Entire International Community:

Travel: International students and scholars, even those not currently affected by the Executive Order should avoid international travel due to the changing nature of the administration’s policies.

Identification: The CGE also recommends that international students and scholars keep their passports and identification documents with them at all times, even when out and about in Tallahassee.

Abide by the Law: At any time, it is important for international students and scholars to avoid any violations of their F-1, J-1, H-1B, TN, etc. status. In addition to enrollment requirements, address reporting, or employment restrictions individuals in non-immigrant status are expected to refrain from breaking any U.S. state or federal laws. Please think carefully before engaging in protest activities, as arrests can seriously impact immigration status or future visa applications. Arrests or convictions that involve violence, drugs or alcohol can have serious or long-lasting impact on current or future immigration status.

Also be aware that while marijuana use is legal in many U.S. states, it remains illegal at the federal level and use constitutes a violation of federal law. Use of marijuana, or alcohol/drug-related DUI arrests or convictions can lead to severe immigration consequences ranging from fines, visa cancellation to deportation.

If you are arrested or have any legal concerns, please let the Center for Global Engagement know immediately. In such cases, we urge you to retain immigration legal counsel to advise you as to next steps and possible consequences.

Beware of Scams: The CGE has already heard about multiple scams circulating since announcement of the Executive Order. Do not respond to email, letters, or phone calls requesting you to take action, pay fees, or meet with individuals claiming to represent the FBI, U.S. State Department, Homeland Security, the university president, etc. If you receive any such emails, phone calls, or other communication please contact the CGE immediately.

Where to find support if you have questions or concerns?

Feel free to visit the CGE advisors during walk-in hours or by appointment if you have specific questions or concerns. You can also consult an experienced immigration attorney. If you are anxious and feeling stressed, students may visit the FSU Counseling Center and employees may talk to counselors at the Employee Assistance Program.

Resources

President Thrasher’s initial statement and Email
Executive Order
NAFSA: Association of International Educators Executive Order Resources page
Council on Global Immigration summary
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Information and Q&A