Immigration Updates

CalArts is committed to supporting all members of our community. 

We recognize that students, faculty, and staff may have concerns about their rights and legal protections. This page provides information and resources to help you navigate immigration-related matters.

CalArts will never share students’ or employees’ immigration status unless legally required to do so. 

Your rights in the US

Regardless of your immigration status, you have fundamental rights under the US Constitution. The following is a compilation of information from external legal organizations:

• Right to remain silent: If questioned by law enforcement or immigration officers, you are not required to answer questions about your immigration status or country of origin.
• Right to an attorney: You have the right to speak to a lawyer before answering any questions or signing documents.
• Right to refuse a search: Officers generally need a warrant to enter your home. You can ask to see a warrant before allowing entry. It should be a judicial warrant signed by a judge within the past 10 days. An ICE Administrative Warrant is NOT a judicial warrant.
• Right to due process: If detained, you have the right to a hearing before an immigration judge in most cases.

For a detailed overview of your legal protections, visit the ACLU Know Your Rights page.

• Carry your valid I-20 or DS-2019 form and passport with you when you travel by car, air, or any other forms of transportation. These documents are essential for proving your legal status in the United States.
• Keep copies of all your important documents (passport, visa, I-20) in a safe place, separate from the originals.
• Have an emergency plan in place, including contact information for family members, friends, and legal counsel.
• CalArts International Student Support: Provides guidance and connects students to resources. Contact us at intlstudents@calarts.edu.

DACA updates and legal support

• Stay informed about changes to DACA by visiting the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC).
• If you need legal assistance, CalArts can connect you with pro bono immigration attorneys. Contact Student Affairs for more information.

International Travel and Reentry Guidance

(Posted March 24, 2025) 
Given the current US immigration climate, international students and employees and green card holders should be prepared for the possibility of increased scrutiny at the US port of entry in the form of additional questioning and/or inspection, including possibly of your phone or social media. Be aware: Custom and Border Protection Officers may ask you questions about your reason for entering the US, your activities in the US, or your academic program. 

2025 Travel Advisory 

International students and scholars planning to travel outside the United States, including to Canada and Mexico, should be mindful of the ramifications associated with potential impending travel restrictions. These restrictions may impact the ability of some international students and scholars to re-enter the US. 

While news reports suggest that additional scrutiny may be applied to nationals from some countries, specifics have not been confirmed and reports on the matter vary. There is a possibility that new bans could affect countries similar to those affected in 2017, including Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen, in addition to Pakistan and Afghanistan. 

While nothing definitive can be predicted regarding future US immigration policies, it is essential to remain informed and prepared. Student Affairs, International Student Services and Programs, and Human Resources recommend the following to help you consider the potential implications of traveling outside the US during this time. 

Recommendations include but are not limited to:

1. Reconsider or postpone any plans to travel outside the US at this time, particularly if your country is at risk of being affected by the pending travel ban.
2. If travel is unavoidable, you must have all necessary travel documents, including your valid passport, visa, I-20 or DS-2019 form with a current travel signature, and supporting documentation relevant to your visa status. If you are an international student and traveling, have on hand a printout (and digital copies) of your unofficial transcript or your fall schedule of classes; it may help prove you are an active student at CalArts. However, please note that having these documents does not guarantee entry into the United States, as the final decision rests with the Customs and Border Protection officer.
3. If your visa has expired and you need to renew it, contact the US Embassy or Consulate ahead of time. Be prepared to expect delays in some countries.
4. Stay informed of policy updates: Frequently check official websites for travel updates, such as the of the US Department of State Embassies and the US Department of Homeland Security.

This advisory is not reflective of any current or expected institutional policy but is offered as a precautionary measure to support your safe and timely return to the US. For any questions prior to travel, please email intlprograms@calarts.edu.

Additional Travel Tips

• Questioning at point of entry: If you are questioned, remain calm and answer honestly and succinctly. Do NOT make jokes about terrorism, explosives, breaking US laws, drugs, alcohol, etc. Do not comment/express intent to remain in the US permanently. Cooperate with immigration and border officials accordingly and, if needed, document any interactions and/or names of staff.
• Know your rights: See the ACLU’s resources for information on your rights at airports/borders and in encounters with law enforcement.
• Electronic devices and social media: US Customs and Border Patrol officers are authorized to inspect any non-citizen’s cell phone and social media accounts to look for evidence of unauthorized work, marriage fraud, and other violations to find proof of immigration fraud and fitness of moral character. Customs officers can review your social media, texts, voicemails, photos, and any other digital data stored on your cell phone. Please refer to the ACLU resources for information on electronic devices.

To learn more, visit https://www.ice.gov/sevis/travel.

If you have any questions, please call the International Student Services Office (students) or Human Resources (employees). 

CalArts is committed to supporting all members of our community, including our international community, and those navigating complex immigration matters. 

Thanks to our gracious partners at Loyola Law School and the USC Gould School of Law, we are able to share access to trusted, local legal clinics offering free or low-cost services, consultations, and educational resources.

CalArts remains steadfast in its commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and access.

Please note that all external links on this page are provided for informational reference. CalArts does not endorse, maintain, or guarantee the accuracy of information found on these linked sites. In addition, the information on this site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with a qualified attorney for advice regarding your specific situation.

Campus and Community Support

• CalArts Student Affairs: Provides guidance and connects students to resources. Contact us at studentaffairs@calarts.edu.
• Mental Health & Counseling: Immigration concerns can be stressful. Our on-campus counseling services offer confidential support. Reach out to CalArts Counseling Services.
• Local Legal Aid: Organizations like CHIRLA and RAICES provide legal resources and advocacy for immigrants.
• Employee Assistance Program: All eligible CalArts employees and their household members have access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at no charge. The program offers counseling services to employees and their families. Overview of EAP services (PDF)