India Engages US on New Visa Rules Impacting Students & Travelers

India has confirmed it is actively communicating with American authorities to address and mitigate potential complications faced by its citizens due to recently revised US visa policies. This diplomatic engagement comes as new regulatory shifts by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are set to significantly impact Indian students, scholars, and other exchange visitors.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed the unfolding situation during a media briefing. He acknowledged reports regarding the new visa rules, stating that while visa and immigration matters are sovereign functions of any state, India is committed to safeguarding its citizens. Jaiswal emphasised that the government actively monitors the situation and engages with the US side when difficulties arise for genuine travelers, particularly students.

The regulatory changes are projected to heavily influence the demographic of Indian students and academic visitors. Historically, a protocol allowed foreign students, exchange visitors, and journalists to reside in the US indefinitely without continuous federal oversight. These new, tighter guidelines effectively dismantle that long-standing arrangement by setting fixed stay limits.

The revised policies have already begun to cause concerns, with reports indicating that Indian students admitted to US universities are struggling to secure timely visa appointments. This situation is creating significant uncertainty and anxiety among students ahead of the academic year, which typically begins in August and September. India's ongoing dialogue with US authorities aims to minimise these difficulties and ensure a smoother process for its citizens pursuing opportunities in the United States.

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