As part of the Office of International Students and Scholars' (OISS) ongoing promise to keep the campus community informed of relevant immigration updates, we offer the following summary of immigration developments that have taken place since the beginning of the current administration.
During this uncertain time, we want to reaffirm that our international students and scholars are not only welcome but are an integral part of the vibrant, diverse community that makes Tulane special. We understand that uncertainty can be unsettling, and OISS is dedicated to providing support and resources where we can.
This list outlines some key immigration actions taken during the new administration that have may have direct impact on Tulane international students and scholars. It includes only those changes that have been formally executed and does not contemplate potential changes that have not yet occurred. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list, nor does it constitute legal advice. Rather, it is our hope that the information below provides context for understanding how these changes may affect the Tulane community and identifies areas where additional resources, advocacy, or guidance from OISS may be appropriate.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to your OISS advisor to talk further.
Page Last Updated: February 20, 2025
Termination of Temporary Protected Status for Citizens of Haiti- February 20, 2025
The Secretary of Homeland Security determined that the 2024 designation of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) will expire on August 3, 2025. This means that TPS and its associated benefits for Haiti will cease on August 3, 2025. Individuals with employment authorization under TPS should consider filing petitions to transition to another immigration category, if eligible.
Termination of Temporary Protected Status for Citizens of Venezuela - February 5, 2025
The Secretary of Homeland Security determined that the 2023 designation of Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) will expire on April 7, 2025. This means that TPS and its associated benefits for Venezuela will cease on April 7, 2025. Individuals with employment authorization under TPS should consider filing petitions to transition to another immigration category, if eligible. This termination date applies only to individuals who are authorized under the 2023 designation. Those who are authorized under the 2021 designation will remain authorized until September 10, 2025.
Executive Order on Campus Protests - January 29, 2025 “Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism”
This Executive Order encourages institutions to monitor and report on international students and staff who may be subject to removal for offering support to terrorists. It includes an addended Fact Sheet that indicates students who have sympathized with Hamas may have the visas cancelled.
This Executive Order would restrict the citizenship of children born within the United States based on the immigration status of the child’s parents. Initially it would have affected anyone born on or after February 19, 2025, but was challenged immediately and the matter remains unsettled pending additional determinations by the courts.
Among other things this order calls for enhanced vetting and screening to the maximum degree possible across government agencies of foreign nationals seeking admission into the United States or already in the United States. It is likely to result in extended processing times for routine immigration applications and delays in procuring a visa. We urge all persons travelling to carry appropriate documentation related to their status, to present in case of any inquiries at the border.
Directive to Rescind ICE’s Sensitive Locations Policy – January 20, 2025
This new directive rescinds the Biden-era policy that protected certain areas—such as churches, school, and hospitals—from immigration enforcement. It has been replaced with a new directive that gives ICE authority to carry out enforcement actions in these spaces using a subjective “common sense” standard. Individual ICE field offices will determine how this is carried out in practice. If you are approached by ICE on campus or in the one of the medical center locations please reach out immediately to the Office of General Counsel for advice before engaging, in accordance with their policy on Unannounced Visits by Government Agents or Law Enforcement.
