Immigration Crackdowns + Updates and What It Means for You

Hey there!

There’s been a lot of immigration news over the past month and we know how unsettling that can feel when you're in the U.S. as an F-1 student. Here’s what’s actually happening, what to watch, and how it might affect you.

Student Visa Interview Suspension and Resumption

The latest official updates confirm that the U.S. State Department has ended its temporary pause on student visa (F, M, and J visa) processing. On June 18, 2025, the department instructed all U.S. diplomatic missions abroad to resume scheduling interviews for student visa applicants. This pause had been in effect since late May while the State Department prepared to implement enhanced social media and online screening requirements.

Under the new guidelines, all student visa applicants are now required to make their social media accounts accessible for government review, and consular officers will scrutinize online activity for content that could be interpreted as hostile toward the United States, its institutions, or values. Applicants who refuse to comply with these requirements may be rejected.

Additionally, there are reports that consulates have been instructed to prioritize students applying to schools with less than 15% international enrollment, though this prioritization appears to be an internal guideline rather than a public policy.

In summary, student visa processing has resumed as of June 18, 2025, with new screening measures in place. No official statement from the State Department or USCIS currently announces any ongoing pause or suspension of student visa processing.

Harvard-Specific Restrictions

The U.S. government issued a temporary six-month suspension on entry for new international students (F, M, J visas) to Harvard University, but this was barred by a judge, so Harvard University is not affected as of now. This does not affect students at other universities or those already in the U.S., unless further action is taken. The situation is evolving, and further reviews or extensions are possible. 

Travel Bans and Heightened Scrutiny

A new travel ban restricts entry for nationals from the following 12 countries: Afghanistan, Burma (Myanmar), Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.

Entry is also partially restricted for nationals from the following 7 countries: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela, including for student visas.

If you are from an affected country and outside the U.S. without a valid visa as of June 9, 2025, you may be impacted. All student visa applicants should expect expanded background checks and documentation requirements, including social media handles and financial records

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Enforcement Priorities

ICE Enforcement: Current enforcement priorities remain focused on individuals who pose threats to national security, public safety, or border security, not on F-1 or H-1B visa holders. However, increased ICE visibility means it’s wise to stay prepared and keep your documents in order.

What You Can Do Right Now

• Keep your documents up to date: Ensure your I-20, EAD card, and passport are valid and accessible.

• Know your rights: You do not have to open the door to ICE without a warrant signed by a judge. You have the right to remain silent and to request a lawyer.

• Avoid travel without consulting your DSO or attorney: With policies in flux, reentry can be unpredictable - double check before booking any travel.

• Stay informed: Follow reliable immigration legal channels or Roam’s blog for plain-language updates.

Remember: You’re Not Alone

The current political climate can feel challenging, but international students and graduates have rights and support under the law. Organizations, attorneys, and your schools are advocating for you - and courts continue to play a key role in checking policy changes. Stay calm, stay informed, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help.

We’ll continue sharing key updates that affect the international student and immigrant community.

P.S. - If you’re traveling to the U.S. for the first time or re-entering after a break and are nervous about how immigration might go, check this reel out.

Best,
The Roam Growth Team 🧡