Immigration Updates
Pace International values your presence at Pace University and supports you. Our international students are important members of our academic community. Your global perspectives and presence on campus enrich Pace every day.
Federal Immigration Updates
There have been a series of Executive Orders issued, some of which may impact visa processing and certain nationals’ entry to the U.S. under certain visa types. We will continue to monitor and update you.
For a summary of a select set of Executive Orders, please consult:
Expanded U.S. Travel Restrictions - December 16, 2025
On December 16, the U.S. government has issued a new administrative memorandum that expands existing travel restrictions to include additional countries, bringing the total number of affected countries to 38. This policy may place new limitations on entry to the United States for certain international students from the below-listed countries effective January 1, 2026.
Countries with Full Travel Restrictions
- Afghanistan
- Burkina Faso
- Chad, Eritrea
- Equatorial Guinea
- Haiti
- Iran
- Laos
- Libya
- Mali
- Myanmar (Burma)
- Niger
- Republic of the Congo
- Somalia
- South Sudan
- Sudan
- Syria
- Yemen
Nationals of these countries face full entry restrictions (no immigrant or nonimmigrant visas) unless they qualify for specific exemptions.
Countries with Partial Travel Restrictions
- Angola
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Benin
- Burundi
- Cuba
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Dominica
- Gabon
- The Gambia
- Malawi
- Mauritania
- Nigeria
- Senegal
- Tanzania
- Togo
- Tonga
- Turkmenistan
- Venezuela
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
These countries are subject to partial restrictions that suspend some immigrant visas and certain nonimmigrant categories (including F-1, J-1, M-1 student, and exchange visitor visas):
What This Policy Means for International Students:
- The memorandum primarily affects entry to the U.S., including visa issuance and admission at U.S. ports of entry.
- Students currently in the U.S. and maintaining valid F-1 are not automatically impacted by this announcement.
- International travel during school break may carry increased risk for students from affected countries.
- Implementation details and country-specific guidance are still evolving, and interpretations may change as federal agencies release further instructions.
Important Guidance for Students:
- If you are from one of the affected countries, avoid international travel unless absolutely necessary until more guidance is available.
- Ensure that your immigration documents (passport, visa, and an I-20 form) are valid and up to date.
- Consult with ISS by emailing intlnyc@pace.edu before traveling if you have concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
I am currently in the U.S. Do I need to leave?
No. Students who are currently in the U.S. and maintaining valid immigration status are not required to leave the country due to this policy.
Can I travel outside the U.S. and return?
If you are from an affected country, international travel may involve additional risk, even if you have a valid visa. We strongly recommend that you consult with ISS before making any travel plans.
Does this policy cancel my current visa or immigration status?
No. The announcement does not automatically cancel existing visas or student status. However, future visa issuance and re-entry may be affected.
I need to apply for a new visa. What should I do?
Visa issuance may be limited or delayed for students from affected countries. Please contact ISS before scheduling a visa appointment so we can review your situation and provide guidance.
What if my country is on the list but I am a continuing student?
Continuing students who remain in the U.S. and maintain status are generally not impacted. Travel outside the U.S., however, may be affected.
Are there any exceptions to the travel restrictions?
Some exceptions may exist, but they are limited and highly case-specific. ISS cannot determine eligibility for exceptions without reviewing your individual circumstances.
Where can I get reliable updates?
ISS will continue to monitor official guidance from the U.S. Department of State, Department of Homeland Security, and SEVP and will share updates as they become available.
Travel Ban - June 4, 2025
On June 4, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order that imposes a travel ban on twelve countries— Afghanistan, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Republic of Congo, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen – while severely restricting immigration from seven additional countries — Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. The ban will apply to international students and scholars (F-1, J-1, and M-1 visa holders) from all 19 countries who are outside the U.S. and do not hold a valid visa by June 9.
Summary
Presidential Proclamation of June 4, 2025: Restricting The Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats establishes a "full" travel ban on 12 countries and a "partial" travel ban on 7 countries, effective 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on June 9, 2025.
Important Update on F-1 and J-1 Visa Status
Pace ISS is aware of reports about F-1 and J-1 student visas being revoked and SEVIS records terminated by the U.S. government. ISS is monitoring the situation and will directly contact any student whose SEVIS record changes.
If you receive an email from a U.S. embassy, consulate, or government office about visa cancellation, please contact ISS immediately for guidance.
ISS advisors are available for virtual and in-person consultations.
Travel Guidance
- Limit International Travel: Avoid non-essential trips to reduce the risk of being unable to return.
- AVOID non-essential travel: Pace advises non-US citizens to refrain from non-essential travel. If travel is unavoidable, it is recommended that you seek guidance from a qualified immigration attorney.
- Check Status: International students should verify that their immigration status is active and has not lapsed, especially before any travel. Any lapse in status can cause re-entry issues or complications at the border. It’s essential to review visa expiration dates, maintain full-time enrollment, and ensure all required documents (like I-20 or DS-2019) are valid and properly endorsed. Please consult the ISS with any questions at intlnyc@pace.edu.
- Keep Documentation Updated: Ensure all travel and immigration documents are valid and accessible.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates and e-mails from International Students & Scholars.
Documents to Prove Your Status
It's essential to carry documents that verify your immigration status:
- F-1 and J-1 Students: Valid passport, valid visa, Form I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1) with a valid travel signature, and proof of enrollment.
- OPT/STEM OPT Holders: In addition to the above, carry your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and a job offer letter.
- Employees on Work Visas: Valid passport, valid visa, Form I-797 approval notice, and employment verification letter.
- Green Card Holders: Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
Your Digital Footprint
When entering the United States, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have the authority to search your electronic devices, including phones, laptops, cameras, and other digital media. These searches can happen without a warrant and are used to identify security threats, illegal activities, or visa violations. It’s important to be prepared for this possibility when crossing the border.
Resources
- American Immigration Lawyers Association: Find a local immigration attorney
- The Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration
- Pace University Counseling Center:
- New York City Phone: (212) 346-1526
- Westchester Phone: (914) 773-3710
- And of course, the ISS dedicated staff is here to help you!