Chicago – June 09, 2025
The U.S. State Department has ordered all diplomatic missions worldwide to resume processing student and exchange visitor visas for Harvard University following a federal judge’s temporary halt on President Donald Trump’s ban targeting international students at the institution. This new directive, signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, replaces earlier guidance that instructed consulates to deny visa applications for those planning to attend Harvard.
The move aligns with a temporary restraining order issued last week by U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs in Boston, which blocked the implementation of Trump’s proclamation pending further legal review. The judge expressed concerns that prospective Harvard students abroad were facing difficulties obtaining visas at some U.S. embassies.
Trump’s administration had justified the ban on national security grounds and has taken multiple actions against Harvard, including freezing funding and threatening its tax-exempt status. Harvard argues these measures are retaliatory, aimed at controlling the university’s governance and academic freedom.
The State Department emphasized that all other visa-related policies remain in effect, including enhanced social media screening of applicants. The legal dispute between Harvard and the administration continues, with further court proceedings scheduled.
