Interview Waiver Update
While this news is disappointing, it isn’t unexpected. Many in our sector expressed concern that the new administration would revert back to previous policies around interview waivers. For students, this impacts a small percentage; however, the bigger impact will be felt in the issue of capacity. The Biden administration successfully used interview waivers as a way to “catch-up” on the backlog of appointments post-COVID. Unfortunately, by limiting the availibility of waivers, it will require more appointments.
The Department of State has updated the categories of applicants that may be eligible for a waiver of the nonimmigrant visa interview. Consular officers have the authority and discretion to waive the in-person interview for the following categories as outlined in the Immigration and Nationality Act section 222(h):
Applicants classifiable under the visa symbols A-1, A-2, C-3 (except attendants, servants, or personal employees of accredited officials), G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-6, or TECRO E-1;
Applicants for diplomatic- or official-type visas; and
Applicants who previously held a visa in the same category that expired less than 12 months prior to the new application.
Read the full story on the State Department website >
US State Department Pauses Study Abroad Grant Funding
In a world of expanding globalization, this move doesn’t make much sense. The administration has placed a 15-day temporary pause on federal grant funding for study-abroad scholarships and government-exchange programs. There has been no explanation and no indication as to what, if any, changes will be made.
“While we have no indication that funding will be discontinued permanently, the ripple effect of uncertainty caused by the State Department’s action without notice, explanation or public statement, is profound,” Melissa Torres, president of the Forum on Education Abroad, told The PIE News.
As International Students, We’re Living in Limbo
We don’t always include opinion pieces in our news updates; however, for those of our colleagues working with students on campus, this op-ed from a student at Emerson College in Boston may be of interest. Our team has participated in several overseas webinars to ensure students and families that international students remain welcome in the US. We understand there has been a lot in the news involving immigration, much of it focusing on “illegal” immigration. A few things that are important to remind students of:
It is not new for the US or any country to enforce their immigration laws
The US has laws for international students and students have rights
Students must always stay in full legal status, should not engage in unauthorized work, and stay current in SEVIS
Students should get to know their ISSS office staff
While most students were out buying last-minute flowers and CVS chocolates for their Valentines last week, international students at Emerson were making copies of their legal documents to avoid deportation. One moment, we were regular American college students, and the next, we were scrambling to feel secure on campus.
