Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)

SEVIS is a system that was conceived in the wake of the Sept 11, 2001 tragedy. SEVIS will monitor individuals who enter the United States on J-1, F-1 and M-1 visas and their dependents.

The Patriot Act of 2002 mandated that SEVIS be fully implemented on January 1, 2003. Congress has provided $36 million dollars to implement this program. Many university, colleges and research institutions would like to work closely with the Department of State on the implementation of this program. This program will require the following information to be entered into the SEVIS system: 1) the date of entry and port of entry of each visa holder, 2) name, place and date of birth, 3) country of citizenship, 4) current address, 4) full or part time student status, 5) projected commencement date, 6) number of credits completed per year, 7) degree and field of study, 8) beginning and end dates of practical training, 9) termination date and reason for termination, 10) status of person and 11) any criminal convictions.

The J visa program is under tight scrutiny and the Department of State is allegedly considering its continued viability at this time. One of the concerns of opponents of the Student and Exchange visitor programs is the unavailability to track these individuals after they enter the country. SEVIS should assist in the regard.

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