On Friday, the U.S. State Department instructed its embassies and consulates to recommence the processing of student and exchange visitor visas for Harvard University.
This development occurred after a judge intervened to stop President Donald Trump’s recent initiative aimed at preventing foreign students from attending this esteemed institution, as reported by VisaGuide.World.
The recent changes nullify previous directives that encouraged embassies to reject visa applications from students and researchers intending to study at Harvard, according to a CNN report. These adjustments were made following a temporary restraining order (TRO) issued by U.S. District Judge, Allison Burroughs.
Consular sections are to immediately begin processing student and exchange visitor visas for Harvard University. No applications of this nature should be declined.
US Halts New Student Visa Scheduling
The Trump administration has enforced stricter regulations in recent months, especially regarding immigration.
Just last month, the U.S. State Department halted the setting of appointments for new visa interviews for international students intending to study in the United States. These updates were shared by an official from the U.S. government.
Additionally, it was disclosed that U.S. authorities plan to enhance the scrutiny of applicants' activities on social media platforms.
An official communication, signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and obtained by the Associated Press, indicated that further guidance on expanded social media evaluation would soon be forthcoming.
Consular sections should refrain from increasing any student or exchange visitor visa appointment capacity until the new guidance related to social media screening and vetting is published.
US to Cancel Visas for Chinese Students
Last month, the U.S. State Department declared its intention to cancel the visas of Chinese students pursuing their education in the United States.
This announcement was made through a statement from Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Under President Trump’s administration, the U.S. State Department will collaborate with the Department of Homeland Security to systematically revoke visas for Chinese students, which includes those connected to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in vital fields.
The decision by the U.S. has drawn criticism from officials in China. In this context, a spokesman for the Chinese government, Mao Ning, remarked that the Trump administration misuses national security as a justification for an unreasonable decision, which according to Ning, has compromised the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese students and posed additional hurdles to normal cultural exchanges between both nations.
Fonte: Visa Guide World
