US Visa Processing Resumes for Harvard Students

The United States has resumed processing student and exchange visas for Harvard University applicants following a federal court’s decision to block a controversial presidential proclamation issued by former President Donald Trump.

The directive, issued on June 4, sought to suspend the entry of all foreign students attending Harvard, citing concerns over foreign influence and national security. The White House alleged the university had received over $150 million in funding from Chinese sources and claimed it failed to enforce adequate oversight of international students.

Harvard University promptly filed a legal challenge, calling the move unconstitutional and retaliatory. On June 6, U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs issued a temporary restraining order, halting enforcement of the policy. The judge cited violations of due process and First Amendment protections, describing the measure as overly broad and lacking legal justification.

In response, the U.S. State Department circulated an internal cable—signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio—instructing consulates worldwide to resume the processing of F, M, and J visas for incoming and returning Harvard students. However, consular officials have been directed to maintain heightened scrutiny, including expanded social media and online activity checks.

The court’s ruling allows visa issuance to continue pending further litigation, with a key hearing scheduled for June 16. The case has drawn widespread attention amid a broader climate of tightened visa restrictions affecting international students, particularly from China and the Middle East.

Legal experts warn that while the court’s intervention offers temporary relief, the policy landscape remains uncertain. “This is a reprieve, not a resolution,” said immigration attorney Michael Li. “Students should prepare for enhanced vetting, and universities must remain vigilant.”

The Trump-era measure is part of a broader campaign scrutinizing academic institutions for perceived foreign influence, placing U.S. higher education policy at the center of a growing geopolitical debate.