Federal Immigration Policies | Brief Brief Your Source for University News Federal Immigration Policies There is uncertainty and concern in our University community about changes in immigration policies outlined by the federal government. The University has personnel and resources in place to support faculty, staff, and students who may be affected by these changes. Those resources are listed below. International students and scholars have been and will always be an essential part of the University of Minnesota, bringing new knowledge and experiences to our University for 150 years. They—and other employees and students who are affected by immigration policies—will be a vital part of the success of our state and the University of Minnesota long into the future. As has been the University’s pledge over the years, we are fully committed to keeping all members of our community who are affected by immigration policies well-informed so they can best navigate their responsibilities in compliance with law and policy. Frequently Asked Questions Expand all What do I do if someone shows up at the workplace and presents a warrant, subpoena, or court order or asks for information on students, staff or faculty and their immigration status? Contact the Office of the General Counsel before taking any action. For communications advice, please reach out to University Marketing Communications. See also Guidance to University Faculty and Staff Regarding Law Enforcement Activity on Campus and University Properties In addition, ISSS has information on its website outlining some standard or routine reasons the Department of Homeland Security makes site visits to a University office. Are you hearing concerns from students or others who might be affected by changes to immigration policies? When individual questions arise, we are committed to connecting students, faculty, and staff into the University’s established systems and resources related to international travel, visa processing, or other related topics. Our goal is to help members of our community make informed choices as they navigate existing and evolving policies, laws, and other requirements. What resources are available? There are many resources available if you have questions or need support. View resources by campus below. In addition, students can reach out to Student Legal Service (SLS), which offers immigration legal counseling. In addition, the “Know Your Rights” section of the website offers easy-to-understand guidance. Eligible University employees can access limited legal consulting and a discount on referrals through the Employee Assistance Program. Community resources for those seeking information on the rights of foreign nationals, bystanders and supporters should they encounter law enforcement agents can be found on the Binger Center for New Americans’ website What role do campus departments of public safety, such as UMPD on the Twin Cities campus, play in the actions of ICE or other federal agencies? Campus departments of public safety, including UMPD, do not enforce federal immigration laws and our officers do not inquire about an individual's immigration status. Their focus remains on public safety, fostering trust, and maintaining strong relationships across the University community. What if ICE requests student information. Will the University give it to them? Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the University cannot provide private student information to any law enforcement agency, including ICE, unless required by subpoena or court order or otherwise expressly permitted under FERPA. Does UMPD generally inquire about immigration status? UMPD does not inquire about immigration status as a matter of routine. What should students do if ICE contacts them on campus? Student Legal Service has guidance for students on this and other legal issues. Students are encouraged to reach out proactively to connect with SLS immigration attorneys, as appropriate. Is the University alerting international students or scholars whose records have been terminated? ISSS staff are monitoring the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) database and will contact anyone who has their record terminated. Students who have had their records terminated will be referred to the University’s Student Legal Service, which can advise on next steps. They will also be connected with key staff in the Office of Undergraduate Education, the Graduate School, and other units as appropriate to advise on academic or other barriers they are facing. Note that not all University international students and scholars have SEVIS records. What guidance is available about international travel? Changes to federal processes and policies may impact international travel, especially for those who are not U.S. citizens. Travelers should be aware of the possibility that re-entry requirements to the U.S. could change while they are overseas. The GPS Alliance’s International Health, Safety, and Compliance team is monitoring the situation and providing updated travel information and resources Where can I find more information about the proposal to eliminate duration of status? On August 28, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a proposed rule that would change the way F and J visa holders (including almost all international students and scholars at the University of Minnesota) are admitted to the United States. This would be a significant change that would require new fees, procedures, and understanding of important immigration documents. For more details on the proposal and its anticipated impacts, review the Current Information on Proposal to End Duration of Status , which will be updated as new information is available. Resources Immigration News and Updates (International Student and Scholar Services) Guidance to University Faculty and Staff Regarding Law Enforcement Activity on Campus and University Properties (Requires University Login) Departments can find experts and information on the rights of noncitizens within the following University’s Centers and Programs: James H. Binger Center for New Americans Immigration History Research Center Human Rights Center Human Rights Program Professional organizations that are tracking immigration changes International travel guidance Resources University Support for Those Affected by Immigration Policy International Students and Scholars Those who do not have U.S. citizenship and are on non-immigrant visas (usually F or J), and graduates on Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Academic Training (AT) Contact the appropriate international student office: Crookston: International Programs Duluth: International Student Services Morris: International Student Program Rochester: International Undergraduate Admissions Twin Cities: International Student and Scholar Services Employees and faculty who are on H-1B visas or other non-immigrant work visas Contact International Student and Scholar Services or the attorney who assisted you in obtaining your visa. Permanent residents should see the Immigrants section below. Immigrants (including permanent residents), refugees who have not yet received non-temporary status in the United States, undocumented, or others with temporary status Students: Contact Student Legal Service , which provides advice and guidance, and legal representation where appropriate, for Twin Cities campus fee-paying students in a variety of immigration-related cases. SLS now also offers expanded student legal support to all campuses. Employees: Limited legal consulting and a discount on referrals is available via the Employee Assistance Program for employees who qualify based on their job classification, percentage of time worked, and job term or their collective bargaining agreement. Additional community resources for those seeking immigration legal services can be found on the Binger Center for New Americans’ website or at lawhelpmn.org Departments that hire and host international faculty, staff, and scholars Reach out to ISSS for guidance as needed. Departments outside the Twin Cities campus should start with their campus’s international student office, as appropriate. Regents of the University of Minnesota . All rights reserved. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. Privacy Statement Report Web Disability-Related Issue Features Work Life Awards and Recognition Rapid Response Archive Submit to Brief