Penn sends an email with information, warnings, and instructions regarding changes in federal immigration policies.
Photo Credit: Jennifer Mesa
By Jennifer Mesa
The University of Pennsylvania has issued new guidance to support students, faculty, and staff affected by recent immigration and travel policy changes. In an email to the Penn community, Provost John L. Jackson Jr. and Vice Provost for Global Initiatives Ezekiel Emanuel outlined the University’s response to a reported travel ban and the potential revocation of student visas.
According to the announcement, a new travel ban is expected to categorize countries into three tiers: yellow, orange, and red, with the most severe restrictions barring citizens from certain nations from entering the United States. Others may also face significant delays in visa processing. The ban has not been officially implemented as of March 18 and the New York Times quoted an official as saying that “changes were likely by the time it reached the White House.”
In response, Penn’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) is advising individuals from the most affected countries to avoid non-essential travel outside the United States. University officials are also encouraging faculty and deans to consider alternative accommodations for students whose academic programs require international travel. To assist those impacted, Penn is offering short consultation appointments with immigration attorneys and recommending that international travelers carry a letter confirming their enrollment or employment at the University. ISSS and University Life will also host information sessions to help students plan for the summer, addressing topics such as housing and work authorization.
The announcement also addressed a federal policy that could lead to the revocation of student visas for individuals deemed to support Hamas or the October 7 attacks against Israel. While it remains unclear how broadly this policy will be enforced, Penn is urging international students and scholars to ensure they have a designated emergency contact in the United States.
In light of these developments, the University provided guidance on interactions with law enforcement, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). While public areas of campus remain open, most university buildings require valid PennCards for entry and officers generally need a judicial warrant or subpoena to access private spaces. Students and employees who are approached by ICE or other law enforcement agents on campus are advised to contact Penn’s Division of Public Safety immediately and document the interaction without interfering. It was also advised that you cannot grant them permission to enter a University building or accept a warrant on behalf of the University.
University officials reaffirmed Penn’s commitment to supporting its international community and ensuring that students, scholars, and staff have access to the resources they need. As policies continue to evolve, Penn will provide further updates to keep the community informed.
Jennifer Mesa is a junior in the College studying Political Science and History from Miami, FL. Jennifer is also the Editor in Chief for The Pennsylvania Post. Her email is jenmesa@sas.upenn.edu.
