Lana Oconnell
A national emergency can have a significant impact on international students, who may find themselves facing a range of challenges and uncertainties. From travel disruptions and visa complications to potential restrictions on civil liberties and human rights, the consequences of a national emergency can be far-reaching and complex. The activation of emergency powers by a country's leader can grant them the ability to override certain laws and regulations, potentially affecting the rights and freedoms typically afforded to citizens and residents, including international students. Additionally, international students may encounter difficulties related to their academic institutions, financial situations, and personal well-being during a national emergency. Understanding the implications of a national emergency is crucial for international students to effectively navigate the challenges and safeguard their interests.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of national emergencies declared between 1976 and 2007 | 42 |
| Purpose of most national emergencies | Restricting trade with certain foreign entities |
| Number of provisions of federal law that can be invoked by a President via a declaration of emergency | 470 |
| Number of national emergencies declared by Trump in his first 100 days | More than any other modern President |
| Number of national emergencies declared as of March 2020 | 60 |
| Number of national emergencies declared by Biden as of April 2025 | 9 |
| Number of national emergencies declared by Trump as of April 2025 | 8 |
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What You'll Learn
International students' mental health
International students face unique challenges that can impact their mental health. Adapting to a new country, culture, language, and academic system can be exciting but also overwhelming. The pressure to succeed academically, financial concerns, and the lack of a familiar support network can all contribute to stress and mental health issues. Unfortunately, international students may be more reluctant to seek help due to cultural stigma or a lack of awareness of the available support services.
Universities play a crucial role in addressing these challenges. This includes providing mental health workshops, specialized courses, and student mentors. It is important for university staff to be trained in identifying mental health warning signs and effectively supporting international students in distress. Developing agreements with culturally sensitive counselling and healthcare providers is also essential.
In the United States, the Department of Homeland Security works closely with universities to assist international students, especially during emergencies. During unforeseen circumstances, such as natural disasters, national emergencies, severe illness, or conflicts, international students may be eligible for immigration relief and employment authorization to work off-campus.
- Promote mental health awareness and wellbeing initiatives within the international student community.
- Encourage international students to seek help early and normalize discussions around mental health.
- Provide culturally sensitive counselling and emotional support techniques, ensuring confidentiality.
- Develop emergency response protocols for crisis situations.
- Offer language-based support, such as language buddies or language-learning groups, to help international students improve their language skills and feel more confident.
- Create social events and activities that foster a sense of community and help international students form connections with their peers.
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Impact on visa and immigration
The impact of a national emergency on international students' visas and immigration status can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the country involved. Here are some key ways in which a national emergency could affect visa and immigration processes for international students:
- Visa Processing Delays: A national emergency could lead to delays in visa processing and immigration requests. This is due to the possible disruption of government services and the need to prioritize emergency response efforts. International students applying for visas or seeking to renew their visa status may experience longer processing times, potentially affecting their ability to commence or continue their studies as planned.
- Emergency Relief Measures: In the event of a national emergency, special relief measures may be implemented to support international students. For example, the United States Department of Homeland Security may invoke Special Student Relief (SSR), which suspends certain regulatory requirements for F-1 students from countries experiencing emergent circumstances, such as natural disasters, wars, or financial crises. These measures can include employment authorization, allowing students to work off-campus to support themselves financially during the emergency.
- Travel Disruptions: National emergencies can cause travel disruptions and restrictions, affecting international students' ability to enter or exit the country. This may include border closures, limited transportation options, or quarantine requirements. Students should stay informed about any travel advisories and restrictions to ensure they can make necessary arrangements.
- Emergency Declarations and Powers: The declaration of a national emergency can grant the executive branch enhanced powers. In the United States, for instance, the National Emergencies Act empowers the President to activate special authorities during a crisis, which can impact immigration policies and procedures. These powers can be used to restrict trade, implement tariffs, or allocate resources in ways that may indirectly affect international students' visa and immigration status.
- Economic Impact: National emergencies can have significant economic repercussions, which may, in turn, influence visa and immigration policies. For instance, severe economic downturns or financial crises could impact the availability of financial aid, on-campus employment opportunities, or the ability of international students to meet their living expenses. This may prompt students to seek alternative sources of income or, in some cases, return to their home countries.
- Legal Challenges and Policy Changes: The use of emergency powers by a country's leader can sometimes face legal challenges and lead to policy changes. For example, in the United States, the use of emergency powers by President Trump to fund a border wall and by President Biden to forgive student loan debt faced legal challenges and raised concerns about the balance of power between the executive branch and Congress. These types of actions can indirectly impact the broader immigration landscape, including policies relevant to international students.
It is important to note that the specific impact of a national emergency on visa and immigration processes will depend on the nature of the emergency, the country involved, and the policies and responses implemented by the relevant authorities. International students are advised to stay informed about any official announcements, seek guidance from their educational institutions, and stay in contact with their country's embassy or consulate for specific advice and support.
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Academic and social landscape
International students are a highly mobile group, and their presence is changing the academic, social, and political landscape of higher education. The academic and social landscape of international students can be affected by national emergencies in several ways. Firstly, there is the immediate impact on their legal status and ability to remain in the host country. National emergencies may trigger the activation of special powers by the host country's president or government, which can include restricting trade with certain foreign entities. This could potentially affect the ability of international students to receive financial support from their home countries or access funds held in their home country.
Secondly, national emergencies can affect the processing of immigration applications, petitions, or requests. This could impact international students who are applying for or renewing their visas, or those who need to travel outside the host country and require authorisation to return. In the case of the US, the Department of Homeland Security can suspend certain regulatory requirements for F-1 students from countries experiencing emergencies, such as natural disasters, wars, or financial crises. This could potentially impact the academic progress of international students if they are unable to meet the requirements of their student visas due to emergency situations in their home countries.
Thirdly, national emergencies can create significant stress and mental health challenges for international students. They may experience heightened anxiety and worry about their families and friends back home, especially if communication is disrupted. The cultural differences between their home country and the host country may become more pronounced during emergencies, and they may struggle with feelings of isolation or difficulty in adapting to the host culture. Additionally, international students may face increased financial pressures if they lose access to financial aid or on-campus employment due to the emergency.
Furthermore, national emergencies can disrupt the provision of educational services and support for international students. Host institutions may need to divert resources and focus their efforts on addressing the emergency, which could impact the availability of academic and pastoral support for international students. This includes psychological support and crisis management services, which are crucial for helping international students cope with the unique mental health stressors they face.
Lastly, national emergencies can affect the social landscape for international students by potentially impacting their ability to interact with their peers and engage in extracurricular activities. Social events, clubs, and societies may be curtailed or disrupted due to emergency measures, affecting the ability of international students to form social connections and support networks. International students may also face challenges in returning home during breaks or after completing their studies if travel restrictions are imposed due to the national emergency.
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Emergency contacts and support
International students facing emergencies can seek support from various sources, depending on the nature of the emergency. Here are some emergency contacts and support options for international students:
Emergency Contacts:
- International Student Offices: The international student office on campus is a dedicated resource for international students. They have trained staff who can provide assistance and support during emergencies. Contact information for international student offices is usually available on the institution's website or by calling the primary university telephone number.
- Campus Authorities: In case of an emergency on campus, students can notify campus authorities, who will then coordinate with the international student office to ensure the necessary support is provided.
- USCIS Contact Center: The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides a contact center for individuals affected by unforeseen circumstances, including international students. They can be reached at 800-375-5283, and their website offers specific guidance for emergencies and unforeseen circumstances.
- OGE Advisors: International students at Central Michigan University (CMU) can contact OGE advisors via email ([email protected]) or phone ((989) 774-4308) for immigration emergencies. After business hours, students can contact the CMU Police at (989) 774-3081 and request to speak with an OGE advisor.
- International Center: Tufts University's International Center provides support for international students facing travel emergencies. Students can notify the center by emailing [email protected] and providing their full name, Tufts ID number, travel plans, and expected duration of absence.
- GeoBlue Coverage: F-1 and J-1 students covered by GradCare at the University of Michigan can seek assistance from the IC insurance office if they need to use their GeoBlue coverage during a family medical emergency or serious illness.
Emergency Support:
- Special Student Relief (SSR): In cases of emergent circumstances, such as natural disasters, wars, or financial crises, the Department of Homeland Security may suspend certain regulatory requirements for F-1 students from affected regions. This relief allows students to maintain their status and continue their studies despite the challenges posed by the emergency.
- Employment Authorization: International students facing severe economic hardship due to unforeseen circumstances may request employment authorization to work off-campus. This involves submitting Form I-765 and supporting documents to USCIS, demonstrating eligibility for off-campus employment due to financial hardship beyond their control.
- International Student Emergency Fund: Some universities, like the University of Michigan, offer emergency funds to support international students facing unusual and unforeseen financial emergencies. Students can apply for these grants, which are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, considering the student's need, circumstances, and other funding support received.
- Travel Documents: In the event of an emergency requiring travel outside the United States, international students should ensure they have the necessary travel documents to re-enter the country lawfully. This may include a valid passport, visa, and, in some cases, Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 with a travel signature.
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Student employment
International students in the United States are generally required to obtain a student visa, with the F-1 and M-1 visa categories being the most common. These visas come with specific regulations and restrictions regarding employment, with F-1 students typically unable to work off-campus during their first academic year. However, in the event of a national emergency or unforeseen circumstances, special provisions may be implemented to accommodate the needs of international students.
Impact of Emergencies on International Student Employment:
During emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, international students may face challenges in maintaining their employment or financial stability. In response, governments and educational institutions often implement measures to provide relief and support. Here's how national emergencies or unforeseen circumstances can impact the employment of international students:
Emergent Circumstances and Relief Measures:
Emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, such as natural disasters, public health emergencies, or financial crises, can trigger special relief measures for international students. For instance, the Special Student Relief (SSR) in the United States allows for the suspension of certain regulatory requirements, including those related to on-campus or off-campus employment. This provides flexibility for students facing economic hardship due to emergent circumstances.
Employment Authorization:
In response to emergencies, international students may be eligible for employment authorization to work off-campus. This is typically assessed on a case-by-case basis and requires authorization from the Designated School Official (DSO) and relevant immigration authorities. Students may need to demonstrate that they are experiencing severe economic hardship and that their source of support has been affected by the emergency.
Emergency Benefits:
Some countries, like New Zealand, offer Emergency Benefits to temporary visa holders, including international students, who are unable to support themselves or return home due to emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic. These benefits help with basic living costs and encourage visa holders to seek employment or other means of support.
University Support:
Universities often have well-equipped international student offices that can provide assistance during emergencies. They serve as a point of contact for students and their families, offering guidance and support to navigate emergencies effectively. Additionally, universities work closely with government entities, like the Department of Homeland Security, to facilitate travel or provide necessary information during emergencies.
Visa and Immigration Flexibility:
During emergencies, immigration authorities may implement flexible measures to support international students. For example, they may provide assistance with expedited processing, travel documentation, or extensions for those impacted by unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, certain visa requirements, such as prior employment mandates for specific visa categories, may be waived or adjusted to accommodate international students seeking employment.
Practical Training Opportunities:
International students may benefit from practical training opportunities, such as Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which allows F-1 students to gain practical experience in their academic field after a year of full-time study. During emergencies, universities can work closely with employers to create internship programs or other practical training arrangements that provide international students with valuable employment opportunities.
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Frequently asked questions
A national emergency can be declared by the president of a country at any time, without approval from Congress. This declaration allows presidents to temporarily enhance their executive powers, with the idea being that passing laws through Congress is too slow in rare moments of crisis. Emergencies can include natural catastrophes, war and military conflicts, and national or international financial crises.
International students may face challenges due to a national emergency, such as travel restrictions or disruptions to their academic programmes. It is important for them to stay informed and seek support from their international student offices, which can serve as a point of contact during emergencies.
International students may experience unique mental health stressors during a national emergency, such as increased pressure and cultural shock. They may miss their families, familiar cuisine, and surroundings. It is crucial for universities to provide psychological support and crisis management to help students cope with these challenges.
Yes, unforeseen circumstances such as national emergencies can sometimes affect the processing of USCIS applications, petitions, or immigration requests. International students may need to contact the USCIS for assistance and have the necessary travel documents to return to the country lawfully.
The use of emergency powers by a country's leader, such as the president, has raised concerns among legal experts. They worry that it could lead to an upending of the constitutional balance of power and give the president free rein to act without congressional approval. Dictatorial regimes often declare states of emergency to override the human rights of their citizens. Article 4 of the ICCPR also permits states to derogate from certain rights during emergencies.
