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Update from the ISS Director: Travel Restrictions

On June 4, 2025, a Presidential Proclamation was issued that restricts the entry of nationals from certain countries into the U.S. This entry ban goes into effect at 12:01 am eastern daylight time (9:01 pm Seattle time) on June 9, 2025. These travel restrictions should not affect students who are already in the U.S. or who have a valid F-1 or J-1 visa on the effective date of the proclamation. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates or new information on the ISS Government Updates page. 

Who does this travel restriction impact:

  • Our understanding is that this restriction only applies to you if you are a citizen of one of the listed countries and you are outside the U.S. without a valid F-1 or J-1 visa as of June 9, 2025
  • If you are currently in the U.S. or hold a valid F-1 or J-1 visa issued before June 9, 2025, this proclamation should not affect you.

What has ISS done to communicate to impacted students? 

ISS sent emails to each student with an active F-1 or J-1 SEVIS record and whose citizenship is from one of the impacted countries. The email provided students with additional information and encouraged them to reach out to ISS for further consultation and guidance. ISS also has coordinated with undergraduate admissions and Graduate Enrollment Management Services (GEMS) to send a similar message to all incoming F-1 or J-1 students who could be impacted by this proclamation.   

What can impacted students do now if they need further support?

  • Contact ISS. Meet with an Advisor or send us an email for immigration questions, travel advice, or concerns about your individual situation
  • Plan for summer. Review ISS guidance on Planning for Summer for ideas on how to spend your summer.
  • Take care of your mental health. Reach out to the UW Counseling Center if you are feeling stressed and anxious about all that is happening. They can support and help you!
  • Seek community. Check out CIRCLE and their student support programs as a way to connect throughout the year.
  • Seek Immigration Help. Consult UW’s Student Legal Services or other resources if you have questions about your immigration status or these travel restrictions.

I know this news may be unsettling, especially as the quarter and academic year come to an end. The ISS staff and I want to provide you with clarity and guidance based on the most current information available. We continue to work with UW leadership and stakeholders to monitor the situation to get the most accurate and up-to-date information. The ISS staff are available to support you, answer your immigration questions, and provide guidance. Thank you for choosing UW as your home away from home and for enriching our UW community. You are an essential role in the Husky community, and we strive to provide a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for all members of our global Husky family.