In a groundbreaking move, the United States Department of State has announced that they will soon be implementing a new requirement for all international students applying for a visa to study in the US. This requirement will involve having the student’s SEVIS ID number printed on their passport.
SEVIS, which stands for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, is a government database that maintains information on international students and exchange visitors in the US. The SEVIS ID number is a unique identifier assigned to each individual in the system, and is used to track their immigration status and academic progress while in the country.
The decision to include the SEVIS ID number on passports comes amid growing concerns about national security and fraud in the student visa program. By having this information readily available on the student’s passport, US immigration officials will be able to quickly verify the student’s visa status and ensure that they are in compliance with the terms of their visa.
According to a spokesperson for the Department of State, this new requirement will apply to all international students applying for an F-1 or M-1 visa to study in the US. The SEVIS ID number will be printed on the student’s visa stamp, as well as on their biographical page in the passport.
This new requirement has sparked mixed reactions among international students and higher education institutions in the US. Some students have expressed concerns about the potential for discrimination and profiling, while others see it as a necessary measure to combat visa fraud and abuse.
One international student, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, “I understand the need for increased security measures, but I worry that this could make it harder for legitimate students to study in the US. It feels like we are being singled out.”
On the other hand, universities and colleges across the country have voiced support for the new requirement. In a statement, the American Council on Education (ACE) praised the Department of State for taking steps to strengthen the student visa program and protect national security.
“This new requirement will help ensure that only legitimate students are able to enter and study in the US,” said ACE President Ted Mitchell. “By including the SEVIS ID number on passports, we can better track and monitor the movements of international students, while also safeguarding the integrity of our visa system.”
Overall, it appears that the inclusion of the SEVIS ID number on passports is a step towards enhancing the security and integrity of the US student visa program. While there may be some initial concerns and challenges, it is clear that the Department of State is committed to ensuring that international students can study in the US safely and responsibly.
