We have recently heard from students that the last few weeks of uncertainty around immigration policy has been difficult. I want to assure you that I have been working closely with UW leadership, campus partners across all 3 UW campuses, and with our leading international organizations to monitor any changes to federal F-1 and J-1 regulations. There have been no changes to F or J immigration policies. If any federal policies are announced that directly impact F-1 or J-1 students, we will notify you. In the meantime, the Office of the Provost has a comprehensive overview of Federal Policy Updates that could impact all members of the UW community.
Here are practical steps you can take to keep your immigration record compliant:
- Maintain your status. Make sure you enroll full-time every quarter to maintain your F-1 status or J-1 status.
- Update your local address. Verify your local address and contact information is current in MyUW.
- Obtain ISS authorization for F-1 or J-1 benefits. Make sure you have ISS approval for any benefits that require it before you engage in that benefit. For example, work authorization, reduced course load, etc.
- Review required documents F-1/J-1 students must carry. Be aware of the required documents all F-1 and J-1 students must carry while in the U.S. and Know Your Rights while studying in the U.S.
- Plan ahead for travel & re-entry to the U.S. Verify you have all required documents if you plan to travel outside the U.S. before you depart. Consider potential challenges or delays you may encounter and give yourself enough time for your trip. If you need to apply for a visa, check visa appointment wait times at the local U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Save ISS contact information. Save contact details for the ISS office in case you need assistance. If you have trouble at the Port of Entry, you can request the border official contact ISS directly.
- Stay informed. Monitor your UW email for updates from ISS and stay informed through reliable sources, such as our ISS blog posts and bi-weekly newsletter. ISS will also post to our Government Updates page if the federal government announces a change to F-1 or J-1 immigration policy.
- Take care of yourself. It is important to take care of your own personal and mental well-being during this time and consider utilizing some of the many UW Student Well-Being resources available to you, including the Counseling Center, CIRCLE, Student Legal Services, Recreation, and Safety.
The ISS staff are here to help with your immigration concerns and to answer questions. The advising team can help you navigate and understand the F-1 Student or J-1 Student federal requirements as an international student. We hope you will reach out to meet with an Advisor or email us if you have questions.
Wishing you a healthy and peaceful month of February!
Sincerely,
Kim Lovaas
Director of International Student Services