In recent days, 141 international students have had their visas revoked, adding to the 300 cancellations reported last week by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This brings the total number of revoked visas to 450.
Top Universities Affected
Students from some of the most prestigious institutions in the U.S. have been affected by these visa cancellations. The impacted universities include Harvard, Stanford, the University of Michigan, UCLA, the University of Texas at Austin, Minnesota State University Mankato, and Ohio State University.
Targeting Student Protesters?
Reports suggest that the Trump administration is primarily targeting students who have participated in pro-Palestinian protests. However, some students have lost their visas despite not being involved in any demonstrations. In certain cases, visa revocations were linked to minor offenses such as traffic violations.
A Shift in Policy
Previously, universities were responsible for informing the government if a student had violated their visa status, allowing for case-by-case action. Now, visa cancellations are being enforced directly through the Department of Homeland Security’s database.
Consequences of Visa Revocation
In the past, students with revoked visas were still allowed to maintain their residential status and continue their education, though they couldn’t leave the U.S. without needing a new visa for reentry. Under the new policy, students who remain in the country after losing their visas now risk arrest and deportation.
