US Halts Student Visa Processing Amid Harvard Protests and Visa Revocations

On Tuesday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered a suspension of student visa processing, marking the latest move targeting foreign students in the United States. This directive, signed by Rubio, instructs US embassies and consulates to halt appointments for new student and exchange visas “until further guidance is issued.”

The suspension coincides with plans to intensify vetting of international applicants’ social media profiles.

The Trump administration is intensifying its crackdown on foreign students, revoking hundreds of visas and deporting some individuals involved in protests against the war in Gaza. These students are accused of supporting Hamas, the Palestinian militant group. Earlier, the administration barred Harvard University from admitting non-American students, escalating tensions with the prestigious institution.

Harvard students protested the government’s announcement to cancel all remaining federal contracts with the university, a move estimated to affect $100 million in funding. Hundreds gathered, holding placards such as “Trump = traitor” and chanting, “who belongs in class today, let them stay,” defending international students whose status is jeopardized by the revocation of Harvard’s accreditation to the Student and Exchange Visitor Program.

A federal judge issued a restraining order pending a hearing scheduled for Thursday, coinciding with Harvard’s commencement ceremony. Meanwhile, the White House doubled down, advocating for public funds to support vocational schools over elite universities. Karoline Leavitt stated on Fox News, “The president is more interested in giving that taxpayer money to trade schools and programs… We need more of those in our country, and less LGBTQ graduate majors from Harvard University.”

Students like Alice Goyer, who protested in academic gown, expressed fears of deportation or forced transfers. The administration’s actions have sparked legal challenges from Harvard and plans for alumni lawsuits. Legal experts predict courts may overturn the administration’s measures, describing them as flawed.

President Trump defended his stance, claiming foreign students at Harvard include “radicalized lunatics, troublemakers.” The escalating conflict highlights a broader campaign against universities accused by the administration of liberal bias and anti-Semitism.