Navigating Changing Immigration Policies: Key Insights from Penn Global and ISSS Webinar
In an era of shifting immigration and visa policies, understanding the implications for international students is crucial. Recently, Penn Global and the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) hosted a comprehensive webinar titled "Navigating Visa, Port of Entry, and Travel Challenges in 2025." This event, designed for those connected to the Penn community, attracted over 100 participants keen on unpacking the intricacies of today’s immigration landscape.
Recent Changes in Visa Processing
The webinar began with a discussion of comprehensive changes in visa processing and interview protocols. Elise Fialkowski, one of the immigration lawyers on the panel, elaborated on what she described as "unusual global wait times." Unlike previous practices, these wait times are now "not refreshed as frequently," creating uncertainties for prospective travelers. One significant change was the rollback of interview waiver eligibility, which previously allowed certain applicants to bypass in-person interviews. This development has raised concerns about increased processing times and the challenges faced by students accustomed to streamlined procedures.
Fialkowski emphasized the importance of preparation for visa interviews, reminding the attendees that these sessions are often brief—sometimes as short as two minutes. She encouraged students to adequately prepare by bringing the necessary documents and being ready to clearly articulate the purpose of their travel.
Establishing Ties to Home Countries
During the discussion, the panel highlighted the importance of demonstrating ties to one’s home country during visa applications. Fialkowski urged students to exhibit connections—be they personal, professional, or financial—that affirm their intent to return after their studies. "Community involvement is a plus," she stated, pointing out how these ties influence visa approval decisions.
Karen Pollins, the second immigration attorney on the panel, reinforced this point, indicating that each aspect of a visa application undergoes scrutiny.
Digital Presence under Scrutiny
In a digital age, the panel also delved into the increasing examination of applicants’ online presences. Both lawyers warned attendees to reconsider their social media activity, where even minor posts can provoke further investigation. Pollins cautioned students to be judicious about what they share online, noting, "They have a very expansive view of what is adverse to current administration policy."
Fialkowski echoed this sentiment, asserting that anything perceived as contrary could adversely affect an applicant’s visa outcome. Given the U.S. government’s extensive access to social media accounts—including private ones—Pollins recommended that students consider deactivating or limiting the information shared online.
Port of Entry Challenges
As students prepare for travel, the topic of Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) searches of electronic devices also emerged as a pressing concern. The webinar highlighted that these searches are becoming more common and can involve scrutiny of personal data. The panelists advised using "clean" devices that contain only essential information, minimizing risks of breaches during border checks.
Pollins articulated the reality of being mindful of the contents on electronic devices: “They want to see what you’re bringing into the country.”
The SEVIS Confusion
An alarming incident just a month prior had left the Penn community shaken, where reports indicated that eight affiliates had their visa or immigration statuses revoked. The revocation came to light through the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), leading to significant confusion among students. Pollins described the SEVIS system’s terminations as the "biggest confusion," noting that while a student’s academic status might remain intact, their visa status could be compromised.
Fortunately, legal advocacy played a significant role in reinstating many of these records, a development that Fialkowski termed “a win on litigation.” The collaborative efforts of legal teams and university officials ensured that communication remained open to students navigating these tumultuous waters.
Staying Informed and Advocated
The panelists were unanimous in their message about the value of staying informed amidst these uncertainties. Dr. Rudie Altamirano, the ISSS executive director who moderated the event, encouraged attendees to consider ISSS a vital resource. “You’re not alone in this process,” Altamirano reassured, emphasizing the Penn community’s commitment to supporting its international students.
Throughout the webinar, it was evident that understanding the evolving landscape of immigration policies is not just a bureaucratic necessity; it’s a fundamental aspect of ensuring that international students continue to thrive in their academic pursuits. The insights provided during this session are invaluable as they highlight the importance of preparedness, transparency, and community support.
