Foreign students reveal why they're not going anywhere this summer
Washington D.C.: International students across the country are cancelling plans to travel outside the country this summer for fear of not being allowe back in. For many, even domestic travel no longer feels safe.
“I probably am going to skip that to... have as few interactions with governments as possible,” one student who spoke anonymously out of fear of retaliation told NBC. This hesitation reflects a growing trend among international students weighing travel for family visits, vacations, or research.
Even before widespread visa revocations began, some universities warned international students and faculty against travel, citing increased deportations of those involved in pro-Palestinian activism. Recently, more schools—including UC Berkeley—have advised against non-essential trips, noting “strict vetting and enforcement” at borders.
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Since late March, at least 1,220 students across 187 institutions have had visas revoked or legal status terminated, according to an Associated Press review.
However, government data suggests the real number is far higher—4,736 international students had their records terminated in a federal database as of April 10. Many affected students had only minor infractions or no clear reason for their termination. Some went into hiding; others left the country.
After federal judges raised due process concerns, the government reversed some terminations but issued new guidelines expanding reasons for future status revocations. Now, even a visa revocation—previously not grounds for deportation—can terminate legal status, forcing students to abandon their studies if they leave the US.
Universities are struggling to provide guidance. A Michigan college employee assisting international students told NBC inquiries about summer travel have surged, but answers are scarce. Meanwhile, immigration lawyers report daily calls from anxious students.
There are over 1.1 million international students in the US.