U.S. Embassy in China on Trump's visa suspension: applications and interviews going normally - CCTV

U.S. Embassy in China on Trump's visa suspension: applications and interviews going normally - CCTV

The U.S. Embassy in China has reported that applications and interviews for U.S. visas are proceeding as usual, despite the Trump administration's suspension of Harvard's ability to enroll international students [1]. This move, which has been widely criticized, has sparked concerns about the impact on international students and the U.S. education system.

The U.S. administration's decision to revoke Harvard's ability to enroll foreign students was a response to the university's refusal to provide information about foreign student visa holders. Harvard has since sued the Trump administration, arguing that the move is a "blatant violation" of the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment and other federal laws [1].

The suspension has been particularly concerning for Chinese students, who make up a significant portion of Harvard's foreign student intake. According to the university, Chinese nationals accounted for one-fifth of Harvard's foreign student intake in 2024 [1]. Some Chinese students have expressed fears about their visa status and the potential for deportation, with one student advising others not to leave their accommodations due to concerns about Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents [1].

The Chinese government has slammed the U.S. administration's action, stating that it will "only damage the image and international credibility of the United States" [1]. The number of Chinese international students in the United States has dropped to about 277,000 in 2024 from a high of around 370,000 in 2019 [1]. This decline is partly attributed to growing tensions between the world's two largest economies over trade, the COVID-19 pandemic, and other issues.

Despite the concerns, the U.S. Embassy in China has assured that visa applications and interviews are continuing as normal. This suggests that the suspension of Harvard's enrollment rights may not immediately impact the broader visa application process. However, the long-term effects on international student enrollment and the U.S. education system remain uncertain.

References:
[1] https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/china-international-students-harvard-1.7541844