The Department of State has just identified a problem with the communication process between its Consolidated Consular Database and the Student and Exchange Visitor Program’s Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). This issue was identified on Monday, November 14, 2011. The two agencies are now investigating this communication difficulty in order to provide a resolution as soon as possible. According to the Department of State, in order to ensure the highest level of data integrity and consistency, the issuance of all F, M and J visas has been temporarily halted at all U.S. embassies and consulates. This may affect the travel schedules and plans of prospective students and exchange visitors.