Be Aware When Re-Entering the U.S. on a New SEVIS Record

F-1 Students: Be Aware When Re-Entering the U.S. on a New SEVIS Record.
If you’re an F-1 student with a new SEVIS record after your previous record was completed or terminated and you’re using a valid F-1 visa to depart and re-enter the U.S., there is a critical detail you must not overlook.

At the port of entry, ensure that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) adds your entry to the correct, initial/active SEVIS record. You have the right to ask the officer to verify this. In fact, it is in your best interest to do so.

Why?

In some cases, CBP has mistakenly logged the re-entry under the old, completed or terminated SEVIS record. When this happens, the student is technically not in status, even if their I-20 and visa appear valid.

Your entry must be attached to your new, Initial I-20 the one issued with the new SEVIS ID. This is what restores and confirms your legal F-1 status.
If you suspect this happened to you (or someone you know), visit your nearest Port of Entry office (Deferred Inspection Site) as soon as possible and request that the error be corrected.

Yes, it can and should be fixed. Status matters. Don’t assume everything was handled correctly ask questions, confirm, and protect your legal standing.

Global Resource Firm