Court Order on SEVIS Cancellations Brings Relief to International Students in USA

A significant development has occurred in the matter of SEVIS record cancellations impacting international students in the United States. Responding to a lawsuit filed by the Murthy Law Firm, a federal judge in Georgia has issued temporary relief to 133 students whose SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) records were allegedly revoked unlawfully. The judge issued Temporary Restraining Orders (TROs) mandating the immediate reinstatement of these students’ SEVIS records.

The U.S. Department of State and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agencies have recently cancelled the visas and SEVIS records of numerous international students. Allegations suggest that in many cases, these actions were taken without proven criminal charges, often citing minor infractions such as traffic violations.

According to the American Immigration Lawyers Association, it is noteworthy that out of 4,736 SEVIS records cancelled by ICE since January 20, 2025, approximately 50 percent involved Indian students. The majority of these students hold F-1 visas and are engaged in Optional Practical Training (OPT), having completed their academic programs and currently employed in the U.S.

Representatives of the Murthy Law Firm stated that while the TROs provide only temporary relief for now, they require the reinstatement of SEVIS records until a final verdict is reached in the case. Nonetheless, they asserted that the court's decision to grant TROs indicates strong prospects for success in the ongoing litigation.

The legal team argued that SEVIS cancellations were being enforced even for minor reasons—such as proximity to protest sites or merely expressing personal opinions—without the government citing clear and consistent rules. As a result of these actions, students and their families are experiencing significant confusion and anxiety. Those currently pursuing their education or who have invested heavily in their academic future are now facing uncertainty. The Murthy Law Firm also emphasized that there remains a lack of clarity on whether a SEVIS cancellation directly equates to the loss of student status.