Northern Illinois University Executive Vice President and Provost

March 30, 2025

Dear Members of our International Community,

We recognize that this is a stressful time for international students, faculty and staff at universities across the nation who hold foreign visas. You are valued members of our community, and we want to assure you that NIU is committed to supporting you.

It’s important that you stay informed and utilize resources available to help ensure status compliance and wellbeing. Please carefully review the following guidance and information:

1. Carry Your Status Documents at All Times
It is essential to have either the originals or copies of the following documents with you at all times: I-20/DS-2019, Passport, Visa, I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record), any I-797 notices from USCIS (if applicable).

2. Monitor Your Personal and NIU Email Accounts Regularly
Please check all of your email accounts (including spam folders) frequently, particularly the email address used when scheduling your visa appointment. Based on our current understanding, most visa revocation notices are being sent directly to the visa holder by the embassy where the visa was obtained.

3. Know Your Rights
It is important to be aware of your rights as an international student or employee in the U.S. The following resources provide essential guidance:

4. If You Receive Notification That Your Visa Has Been Revoked
If you receive a notice that your visa has been revoked, take the following steps immediately:

Contact International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)
- Email ISSS at [isss@niu.edu] and forward the notification you received.
- ISSS staff will assess the status of your immigration record and guide you through the appropriate advising pathways based on whether your status is terminated or active. They will also work to connect you with additional support and services.
Seek Immigration Counsel
It is highly recommended that you consult with a qualified immigration attorney. The following resources can help you find legal assistance:
- How to Find an Immigration Lawyer (Informed Immigrant) This guide provides information on how to find a reputable immigration lawyer, where to find one, how to prepare to meet with a lawyer, and how to avoid fraud.
- Find a Service Organization Near You (Informed Immigrant) Find legal providers, social workers, community organizers and others by zip code.
- Find an Attorney (National Immigration Project) National Immigration Project attorney search network by state.
- AILA Private Immigration Lawyer Search Tool (American Immigration Lawyers Association) Find legal providers by state.
- iAmerica: Legal Services Search Tool (iAmerica) Find legal providers by zip code.
- National Immigration Legal Services Directory (National Immigration Law Center) You can search for immigration legal services providers by state, county, or detention facility. Only nonprofit organizations that provide free or low-cost immigration legal services are included in this directory.

5. Utilize Resources Available to You
NIU is your home away from home. There are both campus and local communities and resources that are here to help support your personal and professional success.

NIU resources for students:
- Undocumented Student Resource Center: Provides support to address complex issues faced by undocumented students including situations of expired or revoked visas.
- Counseling and Consultation Services: Provides comprehensive mental health support to students currently enrolled at NIU.
- Center for Student Assistance: Provides a variety of academic and social supports to currently enrolled students.
NIU resources for employees:
- Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost: Provides faculty with support and guidance on teaching, learning and academic freedom.
- Employee Well-being: Provides confidential assistance to employees and their families as they encounter difficulties in their personal lives and careers.
Community/State Resources for All:
- DeKalb Migrant Aid: Provides resources, support, advocacy and events for migrants in DeKalb.
- Welcoming Western Counties (@il_wwc): Provides access to a network of individuals, faith-based communities and community organizations.
- Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights: Provides programs and services that promote the rights of immigrants and refugees.

We care about you, value your contributions to NIU and are here to support you. If your visa status affects your ability to continue your studies or work, please reach out to the ISSS team (isss@niu.edu) as soon as possible.

Sincerely,

Bárbara González
Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs
Interim Associate Vice President for International Affairs

Stephanie Brown
Director of International Student and Scholar Services

This message has been approved for distribution by the appropriate NIU party and is distributed by the Division of Enrollment Management, Marketing and Communications. NIU Mass Email Policy.

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