Immigration Resources

Aerial view of campus

Immigration Resources & FAQ

The UO will continue to monitor and timely communicate any immigration updates, and their potential impact to our international students, faculty, and staff.

Update on International Students' Visa Status

 The information provided on this webpage is designed to help you understand any changes to immigration regulations.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact an International Student & Scholar Advisor or the UO Dreamers working group. 
For updates related to federal research activities, visit the Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation website.

Executive Order & Regulatory Updates  |  For Students  |  For Faculty, Staff, and Visitors  |  Dreamer & Immigrant Students |  Immigration Enforcement  |  Legal Services  |  Resources for Support  |  Event Information

The information on this webpage is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. This webpage contains information valid as of 05/1/2025, the situation is fluid, and guidance may change rapidly. 

Executive Orders and Regulatory Updates

Regulatory Update: Alien Registration Requirement

Effective April 11, 2025, new US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) guidance requires anyone who is not a US citizen to register with USCIS if they are not already registered. This applies to all UO students, faculty, staff and visitors who are not US citizens, including those here on a UO-sponsored visa: 

  • If you or your family member entered the US after the age of 14 and you received an I-94 upon entry, you are already registered, and no further action is required.
  • If you or your family member entered the US before the age of 14, this change requires the person who was under 14 to register within 30 days of their 14th birthday.
  • See USCIS guidance on the registration process and for more information regarding who is required to register.

The guidance also says that people affected by this change, such as international students and employees, should carry evidence of registration at all times. Evidence of registration includes: 

  • Form G-325R
  • Printed copy of your most recent Form I-94 (all visa types)
  • Employment authorization document (OPT and STEM OPT students) 

For more information, the American Immigration Council offers an overview of the background.

Regulatory Update: New Screening for Antisemitic Social Media Activity 

In an April 9, 2025, news release, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) noted that US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS):

"... will begin considering aliens’ antisemitic activity on social media and the physical harassment of Jewish individuals as grounds for denying immigration benefit requests.”

This will immediately impact these members of the UO community: 

  1. Visa applicants: This applies to all non-US citizens seeking visa sponsorship from the University of Oregon, including F and J student applicants, J, H-1B, TN, E-3 and O-1 visitor and employee applicants.
  2. Permanent residency applicants: This applies to anyone applying for a green card.  

Under this guidance, USCIS indicates that they “will consider social media content that indicates an alien endorsing, espousing, promoting, or supporting antisemitic terrorism, antisemitic terrorist organizations, or other antisemitic activity as a negative factor in any USCIS discretionary analysis when adjudicating immigration benefit requests.” 

Regulatory Update: Requirement to Notify USCIS of Change of Address

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952 (INA) has long required everyone who is not a US citizen to report address changes within 10 days of moving.

  • For F-1 & J-1 students: Report your change of address within 10 days in your DuckWeb account under ‘Personal Information.’ ISSS will then enter your change of address in SEVIS to satisfy this requirement.
  • For H-1B, TN, E-3, O-1 and J-1 scholars, and all other non-citizens: Report your change of address to USCIS within 10 days of moving, following the instructions on the USCIS page How to Change Your Address.

Note: Changing an address with the US Postal Service (USPS) will not change an individual’s address with USCIS, and USPS will not forward mail from USCIS. Individuals applying for benefits applications with USCIS must therefore update their address information with both USCIS and USPS, and with ISSS. 

Executive Order: Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism 

The US federal government issued an Executive Order on January 29, 2025 (Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism) which directs US government agencies to submit a report within 60 days providing an inventory and analysis of pending civil rights complaints related to antisemitism following October 7, 2023. 

It instructs the Secretaries of State, Department of Education, and Department of Homeland Security to include recommendations to ensure that colleges and universities are aware of immigration grounds for inadmissibility, including terrorist activity, so that the institutions may monitor and report activities by “alien students and staff” for potential investigation and removal by immigration law enforcement. An accompanying fact sheet states that the United States president seeks to find and deport “all the resident aliens who joined in the pro-jihadist protests.” 

There is uncertainty about how the executive order will be implemented and which groups of non-citizens may be affected. The executive order and fact sheet mention ‘alien’ students and staff and ‘resident’ aliens, which would seem to exclude legal F-1 and J-1 students and scholars and H-1B/TN/E-3/O-1 employees, but this is not clear. The President’s Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration issued an FAQ on this executive order on February 6, 2025.

Executive Order: Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats

The US federal administration issued an Executive Order on January 20, 2025 (“Protecting the United States…”) that may result, in restrictions on entering the US for citizens of certain countries.

This executive order calls for immediate “enhanced vetting and screening” of foreign nationals, which may result in delays in consular appointments, and visa processing around the world.  

It also directs US government officials to submit a report within 60 days that identifies “countries throughout the world for which vetting and screening information is so deficient as to warrant a partial or full suspension on the admission of nationals from those countries.”

It goes on to state that “whenever information is identified that would support the exclusion or removal of any alien” who entered the US on or after January 20, 2021, from the countries identified above, “the Secretary of Homeland Security shall take immediate steps to exclude or remove that alien.”

At this time, we do not know which countries may be identified in the next 60 days for restrictions on entry to the US. We also do not know if and how citizens of such countries who entered the US on or after January 20, 2021, may be subject to exclusion or removal. 

We will continue to monitor the potential federal actions resulting from this Executive Order and will provide timely updates on this site.

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Immigration FAQs for UO Students and Graduate Employees (GEs)

Q: Can the UO help international students find an immigration attorney? Are there any no- or low-cost services? 

A: We recommend that international students who have concerns about their status consult with an immigration attorney.

The University of Oregon and its staff cannot provide legal services or legal advice. Individuals should make their own choices regarding counsel and that we are providing these names without endorsement of any particular attorney. Every individual case is distinct, and thus, if you are concerned about your status, we recommend you work with an immigration attorney.  If you have questions about how to connect with an immigration attorney or are seeking support, reach out directly to intl@uoregon.edu, Becky Crabtree, or Dennis Galvan.

ISSS advises caution with any international travel for the foreseeable future. We recommend only mandatory or absolutely necessary travel and strongly advise scheduling an appointment to talk with an ISSS advisor before traveling. If you're planning to travel internationally soon, here are a few helpful tips that may make your reentry into the US easier:

Engaging with Customs and Border Protection: Be prepared to present all necessary documents and answer Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers' questions about your travel upon re-entry. Have all necessary paperwork easily accessible before encountering the border officers: 

  • Passports: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
  • Visas: Confirm your visa is still valid and appropriate for re-entry.
  • Advance Parole: If you have a pending adjustment of status application (Form I-485), ensure you have a valid and approved Advance Parole document to re-enter.
  • Employment Authorization Document (EAD): Carry your valid EAD card, if applicable.
  • Student Status: Form I-20 or DS-2019, proof of financial support, evidence of ties to your home country, evidence of acceptance into program, and SEVIS fee payment receipt.

In addition, prepare for electronic device searches at US ports of entry while traveling. Read What You Need to Know.

Expect Delays and Increased Scrutiny: Potential staffing shortages within CBP may lead to longer processing times at airports and ports of entry. In addition, increased scrutiny and a heightened number of secondary inspections for non-immigrant visitors, immigrants, and US citizens are also likely to lead to extended wait times upon reentry.

Consular Processing: Expect delays or limited availability for visa renewals and initial issuances of visas at US consulates and embassies abroad. In addition, current administrative policies requiring extreme vetting of all visa applicants may lead to greater visa refusals and delays in visa issuances.

Extended Absences for Legal Permanent Residents: Legal permanent residents (green card holders) who have been abroad for extended periods should be prepared to show they have not abandoned their US residency.

I-94 Arrival Record: Upon clearance by CBP, your passport may be stamped to show the date and class of admission and period of authorized stay. For F-1 and J-1 students your period of authorized stay should always read “D/S” with no fixed expiration date. If you do not receive a passport stamp, this is fine; however, your entry information must be logged into CBP’s online record system, and your I-94 arrival record must be updated. Please be sure to review your I-94 upon entry to ensure accuracy. You may retrieve your I-94 from the Customs and Border Protection website. 

Ongoing Advice Related to Potential Immigration Changes

During this time of uncertainty and potential immigration changes, ISSS recommends the following tips and advice:

  • Carry color photocopies of your current immigration documents at all times, even when within the United States; review “Know Your Rights” information in case you are asked for your immigration documents
  • Consider international travel plans carefully as re-entry requirements could change while you are traveling
  • Monitor your UO email and read the ISSS Updates regularly; refer to verified news sources for additional information
  • If you are unsure of how Executive Orders may impact you, reach out to an ISSS adviser for assistance
  • Apply early and in a timely manner for USCIS-adjudicated benefits, such as Optional Practical Training (OPT)
  • Report any Request for Evidence (RFE) you receive from USCIS to an ISSS adviser (RFE is a request for additional documentation)
  • Take care of your well-being and mental health

Q: Where do I go with questions about support for international students on campus?

A: The Division of Global Engagement's International Student & Scholar Services will serve as the University of Oregon’s point of contact and resource for international students. Becky Crabtree, Director of International Student Services can be reached at 541-346-3206 or becky@uoregon.edu.

Q: Has the US imposed any new travel restrictions yet?

A: The US government has not yet imposed any travel restrictions. However, the “Protecting the US...” Executive Order requires several federal agencies to recommend, a list of countries for which travel restrictions may be imposed. Therefore, it is important for international students to pay close attention to updates and information provided on this site.

Q: I have a valid US nonimmigrant visa and need to travel internationally in the next few months. Is this advisable?

A: We recommend you plan your travel in consultation with an ISSS advisor, consider consulting an attorney, and prepare for sudden change. Upon re-entry, US Customs and Border Protection may ask for more evidence of your connection to UO. For that reason, when entering the US, carry the following documents with you and ensure that they are up to date: For enrolled students: 

  • A valid passport (at least 6 months in the future)
  • Unexpired I-20 (F-1 students) or DS-2019 (J-1 students) - must be printed, signed and dated
  • Valid travel signature on I-20 or DS-2019 within past 12 months
  • Unexpired F-1 or J-1 visa (or other unexpired US visa)
  • Evidence of funding or OPT/Academic Training employment
  • Copy of class schedule printed from DuckWeb
  • Official transcript or ‘advising’ transcript provided by ISSS 

For graduated students on F-1 OPT/STEM OPT or J-1 Academic Training: 

  • A valid passport (at least 6 months in the future)
  • Unexpired I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1) - must be printed, signed and dated
  • Valid travel signature on I-20 or DS-2019 within past 6 months
  • Unexpired F-1 or J-1 visa (or other unexpired US visa)
  • UO diplomas and official transcript (evidence of degree award)
  • Evidence of employment (i.e. job offer, contract)
  • F-1 Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or J-1 Work Authorization Letter from ISSS
  • If working remotely outside the US a letter from employer agreeing to this arrangement 

Q: I am planning to travel internationally in the next few months and will need to renew my expired US visa. What should I expect?

A: We recommend you plan your travel in consultation with an ISSS advisor who can help you weigh the risks and benefits of international travel depending on the current state of US entry policies. Reduced staffing levels and increased background checks at US consulates abroad may lengthen visa processing times.  Possible travel restrictions could delay re-entry for certain individuals and visa processing times may likely increase with enhanced vetting and screening policies in place. You may be required to appear for an in-person visa interview, even if you received a waiver of the interview requirement in the past. You may also be subject to longer security checks and deeper questioning by consular officers which could delay your return to the US.

Q: My F-1 (or J-1) visa has expired. Do I have to renew my visa to remain legally in the US?

A: First, you do NOT have to renew an expired visa if you are in the US and have no plans to leave the US, as long as you are maintaining legal status and have a valid I-20 or DS-2019. An expired visa is not a condition of legal status in the US. A US visa is an entry document and only needs to be valid upon entry to the US.  If you do have plans to leave the US. and your visa has expired, then you will need to renew your visa at a US embassy or consulate outside the US. Please review the website of the US embassy or consulate in your home country or country of destination for information about how to renew your visa. In most cases, it is recommended that you renew your visa in your home country.  If you do need to renew your visa, you may qualify for an interview waiver. For details, review the Important Update on Waivers of the Interview Requirement for Certain Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants.

Q: What should I do if I leave the US and cannot re-enter due to a travel ban or an expired visa that is not renewed by the US embassy or consulate?

A: Contact ISSS immediately at intl@uoregon.edu. ISSS will assess your specific situation and determine if and how we can advocate on your behalf through a number of channels that have proven effective over the years. If you are a graduate student, you should also contact your graduation program about your situation to discuss options available to you if your return to the US will be delayed.

Q: I am planning to travel domestically within the US in the next few months. Is there anything I should be prepared for?

A: If you are traveling within the US, carry original identity documents including: 

  • Unexpired passport
  • Unexpired I-20 (for F-1 students) or DS-2019 (for J-1 students)
  • Paper copy of your most recent I-94 arrival record as evidence of F-1 or J-1 status.
  • To download and print the I-94 arrival record, go to I-94 CBP Travel Website and click on 'Get Most Recent I-94'.  

Q: Are work authorization benefits impacted by executive orders?  

A: Only Congress can lawfully change federal regulations pertaining to F-1 Curricular Practical Training, F-1 Optional Practical Training, and J-1 Academic Training. While executive orders have mentioned enforcement of employment authorization rules, no change to the regulations is expected in the short term. Consult with an ISSS advisor or an attorney if policies, regulations, or laws change.

Q: What steps should international students take to maintain their immigration status to avoid any difficulties as rules evolve, sometimes rapidly?

A: The fundamentals and requirements of maintaining immigration status for F-1 students have not changed. The ISSS team educates students through pre-arrival, orientation, advising sessions, and workshops. This includes ensuring students are:  

  • Maintaining full-time enrollment at all times, unless approved for a reduced course load
  • Adhering to the 20-hour on-campus employment limit when classes are in session
  • Not working off-campus without authorization
  • Updating home address within 10 days of a move
  • Keeping passports valid six months into the future
  • Ensuring that I-20 or DS-2019 documents don’t expire until after the student graduates

In terms of F-1 or J-1 status, students should continue to follow the above guidelines. If there are changes, uncertainty, or questions, students should always be checking the ISSS website, emailing, and come in for advising services.

Q: How is the office preparing to assist international students if F-1 or J-1 regulations do change under the current administration?

A: ISSS is supporting international students by:   

  • Updating this Immigration Resources website as information is available.
  • Offering private appointments, same-day phone advising, and walk-in advising for students to meet with an ISSS advisor about their concerns, ask questions, and discuss their plans and get advice.
  • Sending an ‘ISSS Updates’ newsletter throughout the term with updates for F-1 and J-1 students.
  • Being a member of NAFSA, an association of international educators. NAFSA has robust resources to help ISSS stay abreast, in real-time, on how to understand executive orders and related actions that may impact international students, and recommendations on how ISSS should advise international students as school officials.
  • Communicating with other universities regarding the changing regulatory landscape to share information and ensure ISSS is providing students with the most updated information. 

Q: What should international students do if they are feeling anxious about their status and future in the US?

A: It is normal to feel anxious in uncertain times, but it is important to take care of yourself and seek out verified, correct information. Below are a few suggestions:  

  • Be wary of misinformation and disinformation. There is a lot of disinformation online and on social media. Talk to an ISSS advisor when you have questions about what you are reading or hearing.
  • Practice self-care by utilizing campus resources available to help students cope and thrive, including: Counseling Center, Duck Nest, and Dean of Students: Community
  • Get involved in helping others or doing something that contributes to the greater good. The Holden Center offers great opportunities for service learning and leadership development.
  • Seek advice from an ISSS advisor. Advisors are designated school officials with the knowledge, experience, and expertise to guide and support you and help you understand your options for your future.
  • Engage and participate in campus life by attending any available F-1 and J-1 workshops, speaker forums, cultural events, and career readiness workshops and events.

Q: Will there be any changes in the availability of scholarships for international students?

A: We do not expect any changes to the availability of scholarships and financial aid for international students. The University of Oregon disseminates information about scholarships in compliance with existing law. Scholarships and financial aid for international students are provided by the University of Oregon, through the endowment and generous donations from alumni and friends of the UO. ISSS scholarship funding does not come from the federal government.

Q: Have there been any changes to the visa interview waiver policy?

A: On February 18, 2025, the Department of State changed the policy on visa interview waivers.

After the policy change:

  • Same visa category: If your visa expired within the last 12 months, you may be able to get an “interview waiver” (meaning no interview needed) to get your visa renewed in the same visa category. Each country is given the discretion to waive interviews.
  • Expired visa: If your visa expired more than 12 months ago, you must apply in person for a new visa and cannot get an interview waiver.  
  • Different visa category: If you are applying for a different visa category from the one you had before, you must apply in person for a new visa and cannot get an ‘interview waiver’. 

Before this change: 

  • If your visa expired within the last 48 months, you could get an “interview waiver” (meaning no interview needed) to get your visa renewed.
  • If you had a visa in one category, you could get an “interview waiver” (meaning no interview needed) to get another type of visa in a different category. 

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Immigration FAQs for UO Faculty, Staff & Visitors

Q: Can the UO help international faculty and staff find an immigration attorney?  Are there any no- or low-cost services? 

A: We recommend that international faculty and staff who have concerns about their status consult with an immigration attorney.

The University of Oregon and its staff cannot provide legal services or legal advice. Individuals should make their own choices regarding counsel and that we are providing these names without endorsement of any particular attorney. Every individual case is distinct, and thus, if you are concerned about your status, we recommend you work with an immigration attorney.  If you have questions about how to connect with an immigration attorney or are seeking support, reach out directly to intl@uoregon.edu, Becky Crabtree, or Dennis Galvan.

Q: Where do I go with questions about support for international employees on campus?

A: The Division of Global Engagement's International Student & Scholar Services will serve as the University of Oregon’s point of contact and resource for international faculty and staff. Lindsay Pepper, Director of International Scholar Services can be reached at 541-346-3206 or lpepper@uoregon.edu.

Q: Where can I find information about the impacts of the federal updates on my international research?

A: The Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation (OVPRI) maintains the update on federal executive orders and research activities website.

Q: Has the US imposed any new travel bans yet? 

A: The US government has not yet imposed any travel bans. However, the “Protecting the US...” Executive Order requires several federal agencies to recommend a list of countries for which travel restrictions may be imposed. Therefore, it is important for international employees, scholars, and visitors to pay close attention to updates and information provided on this site.

Q: I have a valid US nonimmigrant visa and need to travel internationally in the next few months. Is this advisable? 

A: We recommend you plan your travel in consultation with an ISSS advisor, consider consulting an attorney, and prepare for sudden change. Upon re-entry, US Customs and Border Protection may ask for more evidence of your connection to UO. For that reason, when entering the US, carry the following documents with you and ensure that they are up to date: For employees and visitors: 

  • An unexpired passport (valid at least 6 months in the future)
  • A courtesy appointment or official UO contract
  • Recent pay stubs, if applicable  

Travelers should be aware that “Protecting the US...” Executive Order signals the possibility of a new ban on entry from certain countries deemed to have insufficient vetting of travelers to the US.

Q: I am planning to travel internationally in the next few months and will need to renew my expired US visa. What should I expect?
A: We recommend you plan your travel in consultation with an advisor in International Student & Scholar Services who can help you weigh the risks and benefits of international travel depending on the current state of US entry policies. Reduced staffing levels and increased background checks at US consulates abroad may lengthen visa processing times.  Possible travel bans could delay re-entry for certain individuals and visa processing times may likely increase with enhanced vetting and screening policies in place. You may be required to appear for an in-person visa interview, even if you received a waiver of the interview requirement in the past. You may also be subject to longer security checks and deeper questioning by consular officers which could delay your return to the US.

Q: I am planning to travel domestically within the US in the next few months. Is there anything I should be prepared for? 
A: If you are traveling within the US, carry original identity documents including: 

  • Unexpired passport
  • Paper copy of your most recent I-94 arrival record as evidence of your valid status.
  • To download and print the I-94 arrival record, go to I-94 CBP Travel Website and click on 'Get Most Recent I-94'.

Q: Is the H-1B/J-1 program going away?  
A: Only Congress can lawfully change federal immigration regulations through legislation; current regulations regarding H-1B, J-1, and permanent residency sponsorship remain in place. Any changes in laws or regulations pertaining to these statuses or programs will take time and have advance warning. Applications for new employment-based visas or extensions (e.g., H-1B or O-1) may take longer to process. ISSS will contact employees to start the process in advance of deadlines. Employers may file for an extension of H-1B status six months in advance of the extension start date.

Q: Have there been any changes to the visa interview waiver policy?A: On February 18, 2025, The Department of State changed the policy on visa interview waivers.

After the policy change:

  • Same visa category: If your visa expired within the last 12 months you may be able to get an “interview waiver” (meaning no interview needed) to get your visa renewed in the same visa category. Each country is given the discretion to waive interviews.
  • Expired visa: If your visa expired more than 12 months ago you must apply in-person for a new visa and cannot get an interview waiver.  
  • Different visa category: If you are applying for a different visa category from the one you had before, you must apply in person for a new visa and cannot get an ‘interview waiver’. 

Before this change: 

  • If your visa expired within the last 48 months, you could get an “interview waiver” (meaning no interview needed) to get your visa renewed.
  • If you had a visa in one category, you could get an “interview waiver” (meaning no interview needed) to get another type of visa in a different category.

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UO's Support for Dreamer and Immigrant Students

Q: Where do I go with questions about support for Dreamer immigrant students and community members on campus?

A: The Office of the Dean of Students' Assistant Dean of Students, Director of Community and Belonging, Justine Carpenter, will serve as the University of Oregon’s point of contact and resource for Dreamer students, including those covered under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Justine can be reached at 541-346-1123 or justcarp@uoregon.edu. Learn more about UO Immigrant Student Resources.

Q: What’s the latest on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)? 

A: For now, recipients can continue to renew their DACA. On January 17, 2025, the US Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit issued a decision finding major parts of the Biden Administration’s DACA rule unlawful. For existing DACA recipients, the decision is on hold pending further action from the Fifth Circuit or the US Supreme Court. Therefore, existing DACA recipients can continue to renew their deferred action and work authorization for the time being.    

Q: Does the UO have resources for students renewing their DACA? 

A: Currently enrolled UO students who will be renewing their DACA may reach out to Justine Carpenter for assistance with DACA renewals. 

Dreamers & Immigrant Students: Justine Carpenter, Assistant Dean of Students; Director, Community and Belonging.  

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Responses to Immigration Enforcement

Download Legal Rights Red Card (Printable)

How faculty/staff should handle inquiries from federal immigration officials

If an immigration officer requests university information regarding a person, do the following:

  1.  Be polite and respectful. Do not do anything that interferes with an officer’s duties.
  2. If the officer requests information or presents you with a warrant, subpoena, or order, tell the officer: “I understand that you're here in an official capacity. The UO generally cooperates with government investigations. I'm, however, obligated to call ourGeneral Counsel’s office. I'm not authorized to provide any information on any person or accept service of any warrant, subpoena, or order.”
  3. Ask for the officer’s name, ID number, agency affiliation, and business card. Ask to make a copy of any document presented by the officer.
  4. Contact UO General Counsel’s Office at (541) 346-3082 and provide the officer’s identification information. Leave a voicemail if necessary. Email any document provided by the officer to gcounsel@uoregon.edu.
  5. Get guidance from the UO General Counsel's Office about what requested documents or information maybe provided, if any.

If an immigration officer seeks your consent to enter a limited-access space, such as a classroom, office, conference room, or secured area, do the following:

  1. Be polite and respectful. Do not do anything that interferes with an officer’s duties.
  2. Tell the officer: “I understand that you're here to enforce immigration law. I'm not obstructing your progress, but I am obligated to call our General Counsel’s office before you proceed. Also, I'm not authorized to accept service of any warrant, subpoena, or order.”
  3. Ask for the officer’s name, ID number, agency affiliation, and business card.
  4. Before granting access, contact UO General Counsel’s Office at (541) 346-3082, provide the officer’s identification information, and obtain guidance. Leave a voicemail if necessary. Email any document provided by the officer to gcounsel@uoregon.edu
  5. If needed, you may also contact the UO Police Dept. at 541-345-3232 or 911.
  6. If the officer enters without permission, do not interfere with the officer’s actions. If possible, take detailed notes of what transpires.

Download a printable wallet-size handout with the above information.

Guidance for Immigration Enforcement (PDF)

Facts to help you avoid becoming a victim of scams

Don't believe phone calls or emails from fake officials:

  • Be wary of scammers asking for sensitive or personal information, demanding payment, and threatening deportation if you do not comply.
  • USCIS and ICE never request payment over the phone.
  • ICE agents and local police do not call immigrants to warn them that they are about to be arrested and deported for violating immigration laws.
  • ICE never requests financial information (such as bank account and credit card information) or demands money to dismiss an investigation, quash an arrest warrant, or stop deportation.

Ask for identification: 

  • ICE agents carry official badges and credentials. They may have identification cards with their name, photo, and the department logo. You can ask them to show you their badge or ID.
  • ICE agents do not have the authority to enter your household without a warrant signed by a judge. Ask to see their badge or identification and the warrant. 

 Know your immigration attorney's credentials:

  • Individuals may falsely claim to be attorneys and will take advantage of immigrants by making you pay exorbitant fees for their services.

How to report a scam?

If you believe you are being scammed or have anyone asking for any funds and represent themselves as law enforcement, contact UOPD at 541-346-2919. UOPD will not inquire about your immigration status, but will help you file a report or determine if a scam is occurring.Call the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General at 1-800-323-8603.Contact ICE at 1-866-DHS-2-ICEor complete the USCIS complaint form. You can report suspected fraud to the Federal Trade Commission by calling (877) FTC-HELP or (877) ID-THEFT, or through ReportFraud.ftc.gov

Q: What do I do if an immigration law enforcement official requests information about a UO student, employee, or visiting scholar?

A: The UO Office of the General Counsel is the first point of contact for law enforcement officials seeking information about a UO student, employee or visiting scholar. Contact the Office of General Counsel (OGC) at 541-346-3082 or gcounsel@uoregon.edu. Any voicemails left on the OGC main number will be immediately routed to attorneys for response. 

Q: What do I do if I am stopped or questioned by an immigration law enforcement official about my immigration status in the US?

A: Know your rights when dealing with immigration law enforcement. You have the constitutional right to remain silent and to speak to an attorney before you answer any questions by an immigration law enforcement official. If you are not a US Citizen and you have your immigration documents with you, you must show them to a federal immigration officer if demanded. 

For more information about your rights, visit Oregon Law Help, The Legal Aid Society, ACLU Know Your Rights, and the President's Alliance Higher Ed Immigration portal.

The Immigration Legal Resource Center, an independent immigration rights nonprofit organization, has available on its website legal rights red cards, which anyone can print out and give to an immigration enforcement official to succinctly assert one’s rights in written form.

Q: Can the UO refer me to an immigration lawyer?

A: If you are contacted by law enforcement, you may want to contact an immigration attorney about your specific situation and concerns. For help in finding immigration legal help, visit Oregon Law Help.

Q: What else should I be aware of and prepared for in the coming months? 

Note: This guidance does not contain immigration advice for any individual. If you have questions about your specific immigration situation, please contact:

International Students

Becky Crabtree

Director of International Student Services

International Scholars & Employees

Lindsay Pepper

Director of International Scholar Services

Dreamers & Undocumented Students

Justine Carpenter

Assistant Dean of Students; Director, Multicultural and Identity-based Support Services

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Resources for Support

Q: Can the UO help international students, faculty, and staff find an immigration attorney? Are there any no- or low-cost services? 

A: We recommend that international students, faculty, and staff who have concerns about their status consult with an immigration attorney.

The University of Oregon and its staff cannot provide legal services or legal advice. Individuals should make their own choices regarding counsel and that we are providing these names without endorsement of any particular attorney. Every individual case is distinct, and thus, if you are concerned about your status, we recommend you work with an immigration attorney.  If you have questions about how to connect with an immigration attorney or are seeking support, reach out directly to intl@uoregon.edu, Becky Crabtree, or Dennis Galvan.

University of Oregon Resources

Rights and Resources

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Event Information

Spring Term Information Forums

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) is hosting a series of open forums for UO's international community to learn about resources and meet with ISSS staff. For questions about these forums, contact intl@uoregon.edu.

Info Session for:

School of Journalism and Communication, College of Design, College of Education, School of Music and Dance, Knight Campus, Robert D. Clark Honors College, School of Law

Friday, May 2
3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
Hybrid: HEDCO 142
Microsoft Teams
Meeting ID: 216 133 823 564 9
Passcode: tv9c8BH2

Past Events

Spring Term Information Forums

School of Global Studies and Languages

Tuesday, April 15

CAS Natural Sciences

Tuesday, April 22

CAS Humanities and Social Sciences

Wednesday, April 23 

Lundquist College of Business

Monday, April 28

Information and Support Session for International, Dreamer, and Undocumented Students, Faculty, and Staff

Event details:

Wednesday, February 5

6:30 p.m.

Eugene: Straub 156 (no RSVP required).

Portland: Library & Learning Commons Room 312. Please RSVP for the Portland session.

Livestream: Microsoft Teams (DuckID Log in Required) Meeting ID: 218 901 797 376 Passcode: bm9tL6Hf

The University of Oregon is hosting an immigration information and support session for our international students, faculty, and staff, including those who are Dreamers, DACAmented, and undocumented.

  • Essential Information: Gain up-to-date knowledge on immigration policies, and available resources for UO students.
  • Expert Perspectives: Hear from legal professionals and university representatives on the evolving rules and policies.
  • Community Building: Connect with fellow members of our diverse community and find support from peers and allies.
Panelists:
  • Victor Essien, Immigration Attorney based in New York
  • Betsy Boyd, senior associate vice president for federal affairs, UO Government and Community Relations
  • Jessica Price, special counsel for research, ethics & international affairs, UO General Counsel’s Office
  • Kristin Yarris, associate professor, Global Studies and Women's, Gender & Sexuality Studies, department head, Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies, College of Arts and Sciences
  • Eric Garcia, assistant director, training director, UO Counseling Services

Representatives from the Dean of Students, Division of Global Engagement, Division of Graduate Studies, and Safety & Risk Services will be available for questions and support.

Co-sponsors:

Division of Equity and Inclusion

Division of Graduate Studies

Division of Student Life

Division of Undergraduate Education and Student Success

Government and Community Relations

Office of General Counsel

International and Student Scholars

University Communications

Please note: This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice.

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