There is uncertainty and concern in our University community about changes in immigration policies outlined by the federal government. The University has personnel and resources in place to support faculty, staff, and students on all campuses who may be affected by these changes. Those resources are listed below.
International students and scholars have been and will always be an essential part of the University of Minnesota, bringing new knowledge and experiences to our University for 150 years. They—and other employees and students who are affected by immigration policies—will be a vital part of the success of our state and the University of Minnesota long into the future.
As has been the University’s pledge over the years, we are fully committed to keeping all members of our community who are affected by immigration policies safe and well-informed so they can best navigate their responsibilities in compliance with law and policy.
University messages
Updates on proposed federal policy changes (February 3 message from President Rebecca Cunningham)
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if someone shows up at the workplace and presents a warrant, subpoena, or court order or asks for information on students, staff or faculty and their immigration status?
Contact the Office of the General Counsel before taking any action. For communications advice, please reach out to University Relations.
Are you hearing concerns from students or others who might be affected by changes to immigration policies?
When individual questions arise, we are committed to connecting students, faculty, and staff into the University’s established systems and resources related to international travel, visa processing, or other related topics. Our goal is to help members of our community make informed choices as they navigate existing and evolving policies, laws, and other requirements.
What resources are available?
There are many resources available if you have questions or need support. View resources by campus below. In addition, students can reach out to Student Legal Service, and University employees can reach out to the Law School’s Binger Center for New Americans.
What role do campus departments of public safety, such as UMPD on the Twin Cities campus, play in the actions of ICE or other federal agencies?
Campus departments of public safety, including UMPD, do not enforce federal immigration laws and our officers do not inquire about an individual's immigration status. Their focus remains on public safety, fostering trust, and maintaining strong relationships across the University community.
What if ICE requests student information. Will the University give it to them?
Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the University cannot provide private student information to any law enforcement agency, including ICE, unless required by subpoena or court order or otherwise expressly permitted under FERPA.
Does UMPD generally inquire about immigration status?
UMPD does not inquire about immigration status as a matter of routine.
Resources
- Guidance to University Faculty and Staff Regarding Law Enforcement Activity on Campus and University Properties (Requires University Login)
- Departments can find experts and information on the rights of noncitizens within the following University’s Centers and Programs:
- James H. Binger Center for New Americans
- Immigration History Research Center
- Human Rights Center
- Human Rights Program
- Professional organizations that are tracking immigration changes
- International travel guidance
UMN Support for Those Affected by Immigration Policy
International Students and Scholars Those who do not have U.S. citizenship and are on non-immigrant visas (usually F or J), and graduates on Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Academic Training (AT) | Contact the appropriate international student office:
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| Employees and faculty who are on H-1B visas or other non-immigrant work visas or who hold permanent residence status | Contact International Student and Scholar Services or the unit that assisted you in obtaining your visa or permanent residence status. |
| Immigrants, refugees who have not yet received non-temporary status in the United States, undocumented, or others with temporary status | Students:
Employees:
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| Departments that hire and host international faculty, staff, and scholars | Reach out to ISSS for guidance as needed. Departments outside the Twin Cities campus should start with their campus’s international student office, as appropriate. |