The Tartan

Carnegie Mellon University’s Office of International Education (OIE) has released updated travel guidance for international students and scholars, emphasizing the importance of carrying immigration documents while traveling domestically and internationally. The update, published on Feb. 3, addresses concerns related to visa processing delays, potential immigration enforcement actions, and emerging scam efforts targeting international students.

The updated guidance reminds students traveling within the U.S. to carry their immigration documents, including a government-issued ID for air travel, digital or paper copies of their passport ID page, I-94 form, and visa documents. These recommendations align with the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA 264(e)), originally published in June 1952, which mandates that individuals must possess “evidence of registration document,” typically the I-94 form. OIE Executive Director Linda Gentile noted that while these guidelines are not new, the office felt it was appropriate to reiterate them given recent inquiries and concerns.

For international travel, OIE warns students and scholars about the possibility of visa processing delays due to new executive orders that could introduce enhanced screening measures. While no immediate policy changes have been reported, OIE recommends students to carefully assess their international travel plans, particularly during this semester, due to the risk of unexpected delays.

On Feb. 6, OIE sent an email to international students entitled the “Updated Travel Guideline,” reiterating the information shared in their Feb. 3 announcement. The email emphasized carrying copies (digital and/or photocopies) of immigration documents, including the I-94 when traveling locally to and from campus. When traveling domestically outside of Pittsburgh or their current location, students were advised to carry their original documents.

One key concern addressed in the updated guidance is the potential for international students to face immigration checks while traveling domestically. While OIE does not anticipate widespread issues, Gentile highlighted the authority of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to conduct document checks far away from U.S. borders and stated that the updated traveling guidelines are intended to alleviate people’s concerns.

These concerns have grown amid the Trump administration’s recent executive orders targeting immigration law enforcement and deportation. 

The  Trump administration has announced plans to expand law enforcement including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Reports indicate that ICE has ramped up enforcement operations in various states, increasing the likelihood of document checks even for those maintaining legal visa status.

“In general, if people are otherwise obeying the law and maintaining their status, we do not anticipate risks,” Gentile explained. “However, should a student be asked to show their documents, having quick access can help resolve any questions about their legal status.”

OIE encourages students to stay compliant with visa requirements by remaining enrolled full-time, attending classes, and maintaining academic progress. If a student encounters immigration-related difficulties, they are urged to contact OIE immediately for assistance.

OIE assures international students that the university has resources available to assist them in immigration-related situations. While Carnegie Mellon does not offer free legal consultations for immigration issues, students can seek initial guidance from OIE advisors, who can refer them to low-cost or free legal services if needed.

In cases where students face challenges with ICE or other authorities, OIE works to assess the situation and provide support. “If there is a legal matter we are unable to resolve on the student’s behalf, we work with the student in helping them connect with other resources who can advise,” Gentile said.

With ongoing shifts in U.S. immigration policies, OIE anticipates further updates in the near future. The office remains committed to keeping international students informed and advises them to monitor trusted sources such as the U.S. Department of State, Department of Homeland Security, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection for travel updates.

“Regardless of administration, there are always changes to immigration policies, practices, fees, and forms,” Gentile said. “We will continue to provide timely updates and support to our international student community.”