Although the U.S. administration recently pledged to reinstate legal status for many international students whose visas were revoked, universities nationwide remain cautious. Leading institutions like UC Berkeley and Duke University continue to urge international students to avoid non-essential travel, citing ongoing volatility in U.S. immigration enforcement and policy shifts.
Reinstatement Doesn’t Guarantee Re-entry
The Trump administration’s April 26 announcement to restore visas does not equate to smooth re-entry for international students. According to immigration experts, the Department of State retains unilateral authority to revoke visas, even without explanation.
“A valid visa is not a guarantee for re-entry,” Duke University wrote in a recent memo, advising international students to stay in the U.S. unless travel is absolutely necessary.
High Anxiety, Uncertain Outcomes
Students who already experienced visa terminations or are still recovering from legal status issues remain under immense emotional and legal stress. Despite policy reversals, the risk of being denied re-entry persists, especially if students are flagged for past activism or mistaken affiliations.
According to Jeff Joseph of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, the only recourse for students stuck abroad is to apply for a new visa—without the same legal protections they would have inside the U.S.
Activism and Misplaced Allegations
Several students reported that they were targeted for their activism or even political beliefs, particularly around sensitive topics like the Israel-Hamas conflict. Yet, many said they had never protested or participated in political demonstrations, raising concerns over profiling and ideological targeting.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed that over 300 student visas had been revoked as part of broader national security efforts, though many believe the criteria remain unclear and unfair.
Universities Stand By Their Students
As the summer approaches, institutions across the U.S. continue to stand by their international student communities, offering legal support, updates, and clear advisories.
“Stay here, no question,” said Joseph. “When you’re outside the country, you lose critical legal protections.”
Final Word
Until immigration policy stabilizes, international students are safer staying within U.S. borders. Despite restored legal status, the journey home—and back—remains fraught with risk.
