U.S. Reverses Decision on Student Visa Revocations: What International Students Should Know
- Legal en USA
- Apr 28
- 2 min read
In recent weeks, international students in the United States have faced a situation of great uncertainty due to the mass revocation of visas. However, after intense legal and social pressure, the government has decided to partially reverse this measure.
What Happened with the Revocation of Student Visas?
Beginning in March 2025, the Trump administration initiated the cancellation of more than 300 F-1 visas issued to international students, impacting prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Columbia, Stanford, and several universities across Texas, California, and the southern United States. Official justifications cited alleged "anti-national" activities, participation in pro-Palestinian protests, and minor legal infractions, including traffic violations and dismissed charges.
Additionally, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) removed over 4,700 students from the SEVIS tracking system, leaving many without legal status and at imminent risk of deportation.
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How Did the Academic and Legal Communities Respond?
The measure sparked a wave of lawsuits across at least 23 states, with more than 130 students arguing that they had been denied due process and that the visa cancellations were arbitrary. Federal judges issued orders temporarily restoring the records of students in dozens of cases.
Affected universities provided legal support and called for greater transparency and stronger due process protections for their international student populations.
Los constantes cambios en las políticas de inmigración mantienen a muchos en incertidumbre, un abogado de inmigración te guía en tu proceso. |
What Was the Government's Final Decision?
On April 25, 2025, the Department of Justice announced that ICE would restore the legal immigration status of thousands of international students whose visa records had been canceled based on alleged minor or non-existent infractions. However, this reversal does not apply to students whose visas were revoked by the State Department due to activities deemed threats to national security.
How Does This Affect International Students?
Although many students will regain their legal status, the situation has created a climate of uncertainty and fear. Some students have already left the country, while others have stopped attending classes for fear of being detained.
Additionally, the Trump administration is developing new policies to establish future criteria for terminating immigration status records, which could result in further changes down the line.
Is It Possible to Adjust from a Student Visa to Permanent Status?
Yes, U.S. immigration law allows certain holders of F-1 student visas to adjust their status to permanent residency (green card) under specific conditions. These pathways may include securing a job offer and applying for an H-1B work visa, marrying a U.S. citizen, or participating in the Diversity Visa Lottery, among others.
It is important to note that the adjustment of status process is complex and highly dependent on individual circumstances, including compliance with legal requirements and the absence of immigration violations. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to seek the guidance of an experienced immigration attorney to evaluate available options.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance regarding your immigration situation, please contact Legal en USA by clicking here.
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