Trump Administration Important U.S. Immigration Policies
There are now a number of recent executive orders, signed by President Trump, which affect immigration enforcement. There are two key items to consider: international travel plans and following all U.S. laws.
International travel plans
If you are planning to travel outside the U.S., please contact International Student Affairs for a meeting before booking your ticket. This request applies to all non-citizen international students; though, others are always welcome to confer with us about travel or other questions.
Entry to the U.S. by individuals without a "bona fide relationship with a person or entity in the United States" from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen has been suspended for at least 90 days beginning March 16, 2017.
On June 26, 2017 the U.S. Supreme Court partially granted a stay (stop) on injunctions which had stopped the 90-day travel ban issued by U.S. District Courts in Maryland and Hawaii. Importantly, the Supreme Court stated that students (from any country) who have been admitted to a U.S. school (e.g. F-1, M-1, or J-1 student) would be exempt from the ban.
Following U.S. Laws
It is very important to abide by all criminal and civil laws because criminal activity can be grounds for deportation or cause denial of future visas or immigration benefits. Examples of illegal activity include:
- Underage consumption of alcohol (under age 21)
- Possession or use of marijuana
- Sexual assault or misconduct
- Working without authorization
- Engaging in a protest that violates laws (such as blocking traffic without a permit)
- Otherwise jeopardizing your status (such as not adhering to enrollment requirements)
Recommendations
It is recommended that all students carry copies of documentation demonstrating their legal status. For F-1/J-1 students these documents include: passport, visa, I-20, and most recent I-94.
It is also recommended that all students consider applying for a State ID or driver’s license from the Cedar Rapids DMV. This allows individuals to have photo identification useful for travel within the U.S. and for other general identification purposes so the passport or other valuable documents do not need to be used. Please visit the DMV website for more information, and check out these resources for international students:
Resources
- International Student Affairs – For general questions about status, travel, and F-1/J-1 regulations 319.399.8843 or stop by Upper Gage.
- Chaplain – For spiritual resources or counseling. Upper Gage.
- C3: Creativity, Careers, Community – For academic support and resources.
- Dean of Students Office – For general questions not related to F-1/J-1 immigration status.
- Coordinator of Multicultural Affairs - For general support and resources. Upper Gage.
- Director of Wellness - For access to health and wellness resources including counseling services. Upper Gage.
- Immigration lawyer - International Student Affairs is a resource for all students and is a great starting point; however, given the complexity of immigration law, it may be recommended that you consult with an immigration lawyer based on your personal circumstances.
Executive Orders
A list of executive orders can be found here
The executive orders impacting immigration at this time are:
- Executive Order: Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States (March 6)
- Executive Order: Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States (January 27 - Revoked and Replaced) - Currently partially active. The Trump Administration has requested review by the Supreme Court who partially granted the government's request to stay the preliminary injunctions issued by U.S. District Courts in Maryland and Hawaii.
- Executive Order: Border Security and Immigration Enforcement Improvements
- Executive Order: Enhancing Public Safety in the Interior of the United States