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​ICE Must Restore Legal Status of 133 International Students

Ana George

Illegal Revocation of Student Status

On April 18, 2025, District Judge Victoria M. Calvert in Atlanta granted a request for a temporary restraining order (TRO). It was filed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and several other civil rights organizations. The decision affects 133 foreign students who have been deprived of their legal status in the United States. According to news reports, ICE has until 5:00 p.m. this afternoon to reinstate their status.

Who is Affected by The Decision?

According to the lawsuit filed on behalf of the students, many of them had their SEVIS records revoked without cause. Some of the plaintiffs had minor violations. Most of these were traffic tickets, and the courts later dismissed the cases. However, some students had no violations or contact with law enforcement at all.

Legal Grounds for The Temporary Restraining Order

The court recognized ICE’s actions as potentially unlawful and demanded immediate restoration of the students’ legal status. The main argument in the lawsuit: the revocation of SEVIS records was used as an instrument of pressure on foreign students. It was done to force them to leave the U.S. on their own initiative.

“DHS’s actions in unlawfully revoking SEVIS records are intended to force students to withdraw and self-deport.” Says the text of the lawsuit. This approach violates provisions of federal law. Which concerns international students, including the norms established by the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act (INA)

Impact on The Rights of International Students in The U.S.

Such actions by government agencies diminish confidence in the U.S. immigration system. Illegal revocation of student status threatens not only the academic future of international students, but also their immigration status. Possible consequences:

  • Risk of deportation
  • Loss of right to education
  • Future visa restrictions

What Should Students do In This Situation?

If you are facing revocation of your student status, it is important to act quickly. Here are the most important steps you should take:

1. Contact an immigration attorney. Consult with an experienced immigration attorney immediately. At KAASS LAW, we provide students with advice on status reinstatement and deportation defense.

2. Check Your SEVIS Status. Request information from the institution regarding your SEVIS status. Ask the DSO to confirm in writing if they changed your SEVIS record without notifying you.

How do The Courts View ICE’s Actions?

This is not the first time that ICE’s actions have caused legal controversy. Courts have repeatedly ruled that schools must respect due process and student rights. In a similar case out of California, a court previously restricted ICE from automatically revoking a student’s status without notice.

Future Actions and Hearings

Judge Calvert ordered the administration to notify the court of the order. The court will hold the next hearing in the case on Thursday. If the administration does not comply with the order by that time, it could be sued for contempt.

What Does this Mean for Other International Students?

The decision could set an important precedent for protecting student rights. For now, however, the limitation applies only to the 133 plaintiffs who filed the suit. However, if ICE continues such actions on a wide scale, attorneys may file new class-action lawsuits. Illegal revocation of student status is a serious problem that threatens the academic and immigration security of international students. The judicial action taken in this case underscores the importance of respecting the rule of law and the rights of all participants in the U.S. educational process.

How Can I Protect Myself From ICE Misconduct?

It is important to remember that international students in the U.S. have certain rights, and ICE’s actions cannot violate these rights without justification. Illegally revoking SEVIS records without notifying students or allowing them to defend their status is a serious due process violation. In addition to immediately contacting legal counsel, it is also advisable to gather and preserve all evidence. This includes:
  • Copies of I-20 forms
  • Correspondence with the DSO
  • History of tuition payments
  • Documentation of attendance
Remember that the courts require government agencies to comply with all due process rights. ICE must give the student an opportunity to explain or appeal a decision before seeking to revoke status. If you find yourself in this situation, contact KAASS LAW for legal assistance. Preserve your right to education and to remain in the country legally.

What Are The Rights Of International Students in These Situations?

International students receive:
  • A fair hearing
  • Notification of any change in status
  • The opportunity to appeal
ICE does not have the right to cancel a SEVIS registration without explanation and due process. Violation of these rights may be grounds for legal action. In some cases, students may also be able to seek compensation for moral damages or losses. This may include the cost of resubmitting the application and legal fees. It is important to document every step, including any attempts to contact the DSO or immigration authorities. If you or someone you know has experienced a wrongful revocation of student status, contact KAASS LAW. We can help protect your rights and restore your ability to continue your education in the United States.

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