International Students Urged to Return Before Trump Takes Office
Colleges and universities are advising international students and staff travelling abroad for winter break to return to the United States before President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025.
This caution stems from uncertainty about potential immigration policies under the incoming administration.
With over 1.1 million international students currently studying in the US, concerns are mounting about a repeat of the travel restrictions seen during Trump’s first term.
Shortly after taking office in 2017, Trump introduced a travel ban targeting several predominantly Muslim countries, sparking confusion and legal battles. Though the initial ban was blocked, a revised version, Travel Ban 3.0, was upheld later that year, restricting entry from countries like Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Yemen, North Korea, and Venezuela.
While that ban included exemptions for green card holders, existing visa holders, and dual nationals, the new administration’s plans remain unclear. Trump has signaled the possibility of reinstating travel bans, leaving international students in limbo.
Already facing challenges like lengthy visa processing and limited post-graduation opportunities, foreign students fear more restrictive measures ahead.
With less than two months before the inauguration, universities and students alike are bracing for potential disruptions to their academic journeys.
Do you think the incoming US administration will impose restrictions on international students? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.
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