Alaska International Students Facing Visa Revocation

Several international students in Alaska are experiencing visa revocation, part of the Trump administration’s immigration policies. Among them is Jean Kashikov, a recent graduate from the University of Alaska Anchorage.

Kashikov, who hails from Kazakhstan, originally visited Alaska as a tourist and later enrolled at UAA, where he graduated with degrees in math and aviation. He started working as a flight instructor in March after completing a self-employed practice training period that allowed him to stay in the U.S. for one year after graduation.

However, Kashikov received an email stating that his SEVIS record was terminated, rendering him unlawfully present in the country. The University of Alaska officials acknowledged that four UAA students had their visas revoked, including Kashikov. No prior notice was given to the affected students.

Legal expert Margaret Stock highlighted the unlawful termination of visas, affecting over 800 students nationally. The reasons for the revocation remain unclear, with vague references to criminal records checks. Kashikov, who has faced minor legal issues, consulted attorneys on his limited options, including leaving the country or suing the federal government.

Despite the challenges, Kashikov shared that his goal was to raise awareness about the unfair immigration practices impacting international students. His official notice of visa revocation came from the State Department, but as of now, he remains in the country with an uncertain future.

For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned for further information.

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Photo credit alaskapublic.org