Immigration Updates

Make sure that you maintain your legal immigration status. This means making sure that your documents are valid, up to date, and signed. Understand the parameters of your specific visa designation. If you have questions about your status, contact your immigration advisor.

Every international student, scholar, and employee immigration situation is different. Social media platforms, rumors, and some news outlets may share information that is speculative, rather than official. When in doubt, contact your immigration advisor, as they are ready to assist you with accurate information.

Any legislative changes or new executive orders related to immigration will be updated on this website.

If you plan to travel outside of the U.S. during the winter holiday, please review ISO’s travel guidelines and recommendations and remember the following:

• Keep key dates in mind: We do not anticipate re-entry requirements to the U.S. to change before January 20, 2025 which is when the new administration takes office. We strongly recommend that you return to the U.S. before that time.
  • Current undergraduate students returning from break will have access to their assigned dormitories on Thursday, January 16, 2025.
  • New students, exchange students, students returning from Leave of Absence or Study Abroad are able to move into their assigned dormitories on Friday, January 17, 2025.
  • Contact your RA with questions.
• Travel signature: Ensure that you have a travel signature on your I-20 or DS-2019.
  • Travel signatures are valid for one year, unless you are a student on OPT or STEM OPT student. OPT and STEM OPT travel signatures are valid for six months.

Different statuses and visas require different documentation. If you have questions about your required documentation, contact your immigration advisor, or your scholar and employee advisor, or department coordinator.

• Student required travel documentation
• Scholar and employee required travel documentation

Visa decisions and entry to the US are subject to the discretion of the US Consular Officers and Border Protection (CBP). Take the following steps to prepare:

• Ensure that you have properly signed your I-20 and your passport.
• Ensure that you have an unexpired visa sticker.
• Carry your immigration documentation with you. Do not pack it in your checked baggage.

If you intend to submit an application to USCIS for an immigration benefit (such as OPT or STEM Extension) and are within your application window, we strongly encourage submitting it before you leave.

Plan carefully if you are returning home to renew your visa. Delays may occur that could potentially impact your re-entry to the U.S. Please remember to report any visa delays or denials to your immigration advisor.

The Basic Needs Hub provides temporary financial assistance for unanticipated critical needs, such as housing, food, clothing, medical expenses, computers, or textbooks.

Please report an incident if you or someone you know was discriminated against based on age, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, national origin, race, religion, or sexual orientation. Someone will follow up and help coordinate a response.

Is someone you know saying they’re okay, but doesn’t seem okay? Contact CARE or submit an online referral and a team member will reach out to them.

• CARE website
• CARE phone number: (585) 275-9490

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a confidential service that provides employees and household members of our customer organizations the opportunity to discuss personal or work-related problems with a professional counselor.

• EAP phone number: (585) 276-9110

The Food Pantry is dedicated to challenging the rising issue of student food insecurity on campus by supporting and serving all students and postdocs at the University of Rochester. Individuals can browse and choose non-perishable items during the Pantry’s operation hours in 105 Wilson Commons, or pre-order a bag for pick up.

• Email address: foodpantry@ur.rochester.edu

Virtual and in-person worship services are available to those who want to connect with a faith community. Chaplains are also available to provide spiritual support.

• Interfaith Chapel website
• Interfaith Chapel phone number: (585) 275-4321

Learn how to manage stress, calm the mind, and reduce anxiety through meditation, yoga, silent retreats, and other group programs with certified instructors. Visit the Mindful website for a complete schedule.

• 24/7 on demand support via phone and live chat in English, French, Spanish, Mandarin and Cantonese
• Short term therapy for students wherever they are in the world in over 150 different languages
• Self-help articles and videos in the app
• Free for University of Rochester students

Visit the Telus Health website to learn more.

• UCC website
• UCC phone number: (585) 275-5113