UNC Asheville is committed to ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment for all members of our community. The University complies with all applicable laws and policies.
The University has compiled a series of frequently asked questions to provide relevant information to faculty, staff, and students. This resource is intended for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Individuals should consult their own legal counsel to address specific legal issues.
GENERAL INFORMATION
I don’t know what a specific immigration-related term, document or agency means. Is there somewhere I can search for a definition?
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service provides a searchable, online dictionary (glossary) of common immigration terms. You can also reference the USCIS A-Z index.
Is there a new requirement for non-citizens to register with the Department of Homeland Security?
Yes. Non-citizens 14 years and older staying in the U.S. for more than 30 days must register with DHS. Parents or legal guardians must register children under 14 and within 30 days after their 14th birthday. The Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration created a handout on the process. As a reminder, this is intended to be informational and is not legal advice or an endorsement by UNC Asheville.
The new registration rules are effective as of April 11, 2025. It is important to consult a qualified immigration legal services provider to understand how registration may impact your situation before taking any action.
Federal law requires registered non-citizens to report any address change to DHS within 10 days of moving and carry proof of their registration at all times (such as Form I-94, current EAD, or permanent residency card). While these are not new requirements, they are important to keep in mind as you review other policy updates.
Where can I find support for my specific concerns or questions?
UNC Asheville recognizes that immigration matters are often complex and deeply personal. The Study Abroad Office is available to consult on University-sponsored visa compliance and immigration-related travel issues for individuals holding current F-1 and J-1 status.
However, the University cannot provide legal representation to students or employees in personal immigration matters, including detention scenarios, and does not endorse any particular attorney or legal service.
- University employees may contact the Employee Assistance Program, which offers referrals to local attorneys for a free 30-minute consultation and reduced legal fees thereafter.
- Additional resources may be found at AILAlawyer.org and the Department of Justice (DOJ) Accredited Representative Directory.
IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT
What should I do if I am approached by someone who says they are a law enforcement officer?
UNC Asheville remains committed to upholding all protections provided under the law and ensuring that any enforcement actions follow the proper legal process. If you encounter anyone claiming to be a law enforcement agent, including immigration enforcement, please request that they wait while you follow campus protocol and contact University Police at 828.232.5000. University Police will verify the credentials of any agent on campus and coordinate with the Office of General Counsel on the review of any subpoenas or warrants presented.
What should I do if I am asked to provide information about a student or employee?
Any request for student or employee information should be referred to the Office of General Counsel at 828.250.3898. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and other privacy laws may prohibit disclosure without a subpoena or court order, and the University does not disclose private student or employee information unless required by law.
What does it mean when a SEVIS record is terminated, and what do the recent terminations mean?
In recent days, universities across the country have reported a rise in unexpected SEVIS terminations involving international students and exchange visitors. These cases have primarily involved individuals in F-1 (academic student) and J-1 (exchange visitor) status, both of which are monitored in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
A termination means that the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)—part of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)—has changed an individual’s SEVIS record to inactive, based on a determination that they are no longer maintaining valid nonimmigrant status. When this occurs:
- The individual’s F-1 or J-1 status ends immediately;
- Any associated employment authorization (such as OPT, STEM OPT, or Academic Training) is no longer valid; and
- The individual may be considered out of status and should not continue working.
In many recent cases, no advance notice or explanation has been provided to the student or the institution. The reasons for these terminations are not yet clear, and campuses are continuing to monitor their SEVIS records and follow developments closely.
If you receive a termination notification, you should:
- Stop working immediately.
- Consult a qualified immigration attorney (resources may be found at AILAlawyer.org) and contact your consulate; and
- Share any relevant correspondence from federal agencies with the Study Abroad Office, if you are comfortable doing so.
UNC Asheville is closely monitoring SEVIS records and providing accurate information and appropriate referrals to impacted individuals in accordance with federal law.
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL
Are there any important considerations for international students and employees regarding their status or travel?
Yes. International students and employees should monitor federal guidance regularly, as visa policies and travel restrictions may change.
Additionally, in accordance with long-standing immigration law, international students must carry their immigration registration documents at all times. The Study Abroad Office can provide up-to-date guidance on maintaining visa status and travel considerations for international students and scholars.
Are there additional considerations if I am seeking to enter the U.S. with electronic devices?
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has the authority to search electronic devices—including phones, laptops, tablets, and other electronic devices—of anyone entering the U.S., including U.S. citizens and non-citizens. For general information, data use and retention policies, and privacy and transparency questions, review CPB’s webpage about searching electronic devices.
UNC Asheville has a policy for traveling internationally with University-owned property, including University-owned electronic devices. For more information, please review the Export Controls webpage and plan to complete all forms for review at least two weeks prior to travel.