A Lawful Permanent Resident recently faced trouble while re-entering the US after a CBP officer questioned their old SEVIS record. You may find this surprising, but even after getting a green card, old student records can still create problems.
Old J-1 record triggers questions
The green card holder earlier stayed in Seattle on a J-1 visa. Their university failed to close the SEVIS record, which remained active in the system.
Open records raise red flags
In today’s immigration environment, conflicting records cause serious issues. You can be sent for secondary inspection even if you hold a valid green card.
Risk of ICE involvement
CBP officers treat open non-immigrant records as red flags. In some cases, ICE may step in and question how your green card was obtained.
Fraud claims are possible
An ICE officer may even claim that your green card was obtained using false information. You risk long questioning, detention, or legal trouble.
Entry allowed but problem remains
In this case, the LPR was allowed to enter the US. But experts say you should never ignore such administrative mistakes.
Close your SEVIS immediately
You must contact your old Designated School Officer. The DSO can submit a request to terminate your SEVIS record.
Carry proof of green card
You may need to show your green card to close the case. The process takes only a few minutes but saves you from future stress.
Small errors cause big trouble
Under the current immigration climate, even minor issues lead to serious consequences. You should treat unclosed records as urgent problems.
