F1 Visa Cancellation

F1 Visa Revoked – What Should I Do Now?

by

If you’ve just found out that your F1 visa has been revoked, you’re probably feeling shocked and unsure of what to do next. Whether it happened while you were traveling or you received a sudden email from the government or your school, visa revocation can disrupt your entire academic future. The good news is that in many cases, there’s a path forward but you need to act fast.

Why Was My F1 Visa Revoked?

F1 visas can be revoked for several reasons, and often without much explanation. Common causes include:

  • Working without proper authorization;
  • Dropping below a full course load without prior approval;
  • Facing criminal charges or even just being under investigation;
  • Overstaying your authorized period; and
  • Administrative changes or unexplained policy shifts.

In some cases, it’s triggered by a mistake, a misunderstanding, or something that happened months or even years earlier. Unfortunately, students aren’t always told clearly what the reason was. Sometimes the revocation notice is vague or based on old records that are no longer accurate.

What Are My Options?

If you are currently inside the US, having your visa revoked does not necessarily mean you are out of status. The visa is only for entry. It’s not the same as your I-20 or SEVIS status. You may still be in valid F1 status and eligible to stay. In the past, we’ve helped clients resolve the issue and remain in the US without leaving.

If you are outside the US, a revoked visa means you won’t be allowed to re-enter until you apply for a new one. In many cases, we’ve helped students rebuild their visa eligibility, address the revocation reason directly, and successfully apply for a new F1 visa. Every situation is different, but these cases can often be fixed.

Take Action Now

We’ve seen an increase in F1 visa revocations. Lately it happens quite quickly and without warning, and in many cases they are completely unjustified. If you’ve been affected, it’s important to get experienced legal help right away.

Call my office today at (305) 515-0613 or email info@messersmithlaw.com to schedule a consultation. We’ll go over your case, explain your options, and help you protect your immigration status so you can stay focused on your education and your future.

My SEVIS Is Terminated

by

What Should I Do Now?

Over the past month, we’ve seen a dramatic uptick in calls and emails from panicked international students who’ve been blindsided by a message from their school or the US government: “Your SEVIS record has been terminated,” or “Your F-1 visa has been revoked.” Often, there’s no warning. No hearing. No chance to respond. And in many cases, no explanation. If this has happened to you—or to someone you know—you are not alone, and there are still options to overcome this.

What’s Causing These SEVIS Terminations?

The sharp rise in SEVIS terminations and visa revocations didn’t happen overnight. Much of it began during the Trump administration, where immigration policy shifted toward aggressive enforcement. But the trend has continued, with increased scrutiny of foreign students and fewer procedural protections than ever before. We’re seeing terminations based on things as minor as traffic violations, allegations of unauthorized employment, and even social media activity. In some instances, students are being accused of violating status even when they’ve followed the rules.

Universities across the country—large and small—have been caught off guard. We’re working with students from both State schools and Ivy League institutions alike who were told their SEVIS records were terminated without the school having any prior knowledge. Often, it’s only after a student is detained or denied reentry that the issue comes to light. The lack of transparency and due process is deeply concerning.

Does SEVIS Termination Mean You Have to Leave the US?

Not necessarily. Many students are told to leave the country “immediately,” but that’s not always legally accurate. SEVIS termination does not automatically result in a removal order. In some cases, we can file a reinstatement, or challenge the termination entirely, especially when it’s based on vague or incorrect grounds. We’re working with clients today to help them remain in the US, stay in school, and eventually restore their status. The key is to act quickly.

What Are Your Options?

Depending on your specific case, you may have more options than you think.  We may be able to rectify the situation quickly so you do not need to depart.  We may be able to reinstate your visa or pursue other legal options.  

Don’t Wait—Protect Your Future Now

As an immigration attorney who has worked extensively with F-1 students, I know how frightening and disorienting these situations can be. But I also know that with fast, focused legal help, many students are able to stay and continue their education. The key is acting before your options close.

If you’ve received a SEVIS termination or visa revocation notice, do not assume your case is over. Let’s talk about what happened, evaluate your legal position, and plan your next steps. You can contact my office directly at info@messersmithlaw.com or call (305) 515-0613 to schedule a consultation. I’m here to help you stay on track and in status.

Addressing F1 Visa Cancellations and SEVIS Issues: Strategies and Solutions

by

F1 visa cancellations can severely impact international students, disrupting their academic plans and future opportunities in the United States. These cancellations often arise from issues such as failing to maintain full-time student status, violating visa terms, or engaging in activities that raise red flags with U.S. immigration authorities. Additionally, problems with the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record, such as incorrect data or termination due to non-compliance, can lead to complications or even visa cancellations. Understanding your options for resolving these issues is essential.

One way to address an F1 visa cancellation is to apply for reinstatement if you are still in the United States. Reinstatement is available for students who fell out of status due to unforeseen circumstances, such as medical emergencies, or inadvertent mistakes. To qualify, you must demonstrate your intent to resume full-time studies, show that you are currently enrolled or intend to re-enroll, and provide evidence that the status violation was not the result of deliberate actions. Ensuring your SEVIS record is accurate and updated is a critical part of this process.

If reinstatement is not feasible, another option is to apply for a new F1 visa, which usually requires returning to your home country to submit a fresh application at a U.S. consulate or embassy. This process involves addressing the reasons for your prior visa cancellation, rectifying any SEVIS-related issues, and presenting strong evidence of your commitment to complying with all visa terms moving forward. Key documentation includes proof of academic enrollment, financial support, and ties to your home country to establish your intent to return after completing your studies.

While F1 visa cancellations and SEVIS problems can feel overwhelming, they are not insurmountable. With a clear strategy and the right support, you can often regain status or secure a new visa to continue your education in the U.S. If your F1 visa was cancelled, contact my office immediately at 305-515-0613 or info@messersmithlaw.com. We are here to assist you.