What is SEVIS?

SEVIS is a web-based system used to maintain information on nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors in the United States. It is the core technology used by the DHS for this critical mission. SEVIS implements Section 641 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996, which requires the DHS to continuously collect current information on nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors throughout their stay in the United States. Additionally, the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA PATRIOT Act; Public Law 107-56, amended Section 641) mandated the implementation of SEVIS by January 1, 2003.