What should I do if my visa is revoked?
FAQ.
Answered by Robin Catmur-Smith, Managing Director of the International Student Resource Center
Last updated: July, 2026
What should I do if my visa is revoked?
If the State Department revokes your visa while you're in the U.S., you'll usually get an email from the U.S. State Department. Act immediately: inform your DSO/ARO, consult an experienced immigration attorney, avoid international travel until your situation is clarified, and work with your attorney on your options.
Take these steps right away
Inform your DSO/ARO so they're aware of your situation. Check to see if your SEVIS record is still active.
Consult an experienced immigration attorney immediately.
Avoid international travel until things are clarified.
Work with your attorney to understand your specific options and risks.
What to know
Historically, revocation of your visa meant you could still stay if you maintained status but couldn't re-enter without a new visa, but recently some revocations have also resulted in SEVIS record terminations.
Revocations may be triggered by criminal arrests/charges, security checks, or administrative reviews, and can affect future visas, travel, and OPT/STEM OPT.
Before any travel, confirm your visa status with the CEAC Visa Status Check.
