Travel Alerts
The Visa and Immigration Services (VIS) team is here to keep you informed about immigration
policy updates that may affect your F-1 or J-1 status.
On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order aimed at enhancing the screening and vetting of visa applicants, particularly from countries identified as having potential security risks. This
may result in increased processing time for visa applicants, a higher likelihood of
application denials, and more intensive inspections during the immigration process.
Although there are no travel bans currently in place, the possibility of a new travel
ban being issued remains. If implemented, it would likely reflect the structure and
scope of the travel bans introduced during the previous Trump administration (Travel Ban 3.0/4.0).
Staying Informed on Travel and Visa Policies
If you plan to travel internationally, it’s important to plan carefully, be prepared
for unexpected changes, and allow ample time to accommodate potential delays. To help
you prepare, we recommend the following:
We recommend that F-1 and J-1 students consider the following:
- Travel Timing: Plan your travel carefully and prepare for the possibility of sudden change.
- Visa Processing Times: If you require a new U.S. entry visa, be prepared for longer processing times, delays
in scheduling an appointment, and more extensive security checks.
- Necessary Documentation: Ensure you have all required documentation for travel, including your passport (with
valid visa), your I-20/DS-2019 with valid travel signature, proof of enrollment (i.e. transcript, enrollment verification or print out from
SOLAR), and evidence of funding ready for inspection.
- Be prepared to answer questions: CBP officers may ask about your purpose for entering the U.S., your university, or
your travel plans. Answer clearly and confidently.
- Stay patient and cooperative: Expect more intensive screening at U.S. ports of inspection when you return from
abroad. While delays can be frustrating, cooperating with CBP officers helps ensure
a smoother process - be patient and answer questions to the best of your ability.
If you encounter any issues or delays that require assistance, you can contact our
office or email your advisor directly. We’ll be here to support you if needed.
We encourage you to check your email regularly, as updates or important information
will be sent from vis@stonybrook.edu.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I have a valid U.S. nonimmigrant visa and need to travel internationally in the next
few months. Is travel advisable in the current environment?
If you are planning to travel internationally, it’s important to plan carefully and
be prepared for unexpected changes. Before making any travel plans, we recommend speaking
with your VIS advisor. They can help you understand potential risks and how to minimize
delays or disruptions.
If you are from a country that has experienced entry restrictions in the past, please
take extra care when planning international travel. Travel bans can be reintroduced
without notice, so it’s better to stay informed and cautious.
For travels who are not from previously restricted countries and have a valid U.S.
visa and other required travel documents, the risks are lower. However, you may still
experience more detailed inspections when re-entering the United States. Border officials
could ask you more searching questions about your travel, your background, your views,
and your activities abroad and in the United States, among other related topics.
Here are some tips:
- Stay calm and patient during inspections.
- Answer questions honestly and to the best of your ability.
- If you experience problems at the border, politely ask to contact your VIS advisor
for help.
Your VIS advisor is here to support you, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any concerns
about your travel plans!
I am planning to travel in the coming months and will need to apply for a new visa
while I am abroad. What should I expect?
If you need a new visa to return to the United States, it’s important to think carefully
about the risks and benefits of traveling before finalizing your plans.
Here are some things to consider:
- Possible Entry Bans: Governments could introduce new entry restrictions, which might
delay your return to the U.S.
- Longer Visa Processing: The visa application process may take more time, including
possible requirements for an in-person interview, even if you didn’t need one before.
- Delays for Appointments: You might face long waits to schedule a visa appointment
at the U.S. consulate.
- More Security Checks: Consular officers may ask additional questions, and if your
application requires a background check (administrative processing), it could take weeks or even months to process.
If your travel is urgent or unavoidable, speak with your VIS advisor as soon as possible.
They can help you understand the risks and prepare for your trip.
