Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is an internet-based database management system that allows schools and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to exchange data on the visa status of international students and exchange visitors. Current student/exchange visitor information is transmitted electronically throughout an F-1 student’s or J-1 exchange visitor’s academic career in the United States. U.S. Consulates also have access to SEVIS.
The student may apply to immigration for reinstatement if the student can prove the violation resulted from circumstances beyond his or her control. Reinstatement is intended to be a rare benefit for exceptional cases. The student may not apply for reinstatement under any circumstances if he or she is out of status longer than five months. If immigration does not reinstate the student, he or she may not appeal that decision and must depart from the US.