The Indian government is actively engaging with US officials to address concerns stemming from recent changes to American visa policies that may impact Indian students and academic visitors. The revised regulations, announced by the US Department of Homeland Security, impose stricter conditions on holders of F, J, and I category visas, which are typically issued to international students, exchange visitors, and media professionals.
At a press briefing on Friday, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s External Affairs Ministry, communicated that the Indian authorities are vigilantly monitoring the developments. He assured that New Delhi remains committed to advocating for its citizens and will continue to address any issues with Washington as they arise. The adjustments to the visa rules mark a shift from the previous system, where non-immigrant visa holders in these categories could stay in the United States for longer durations without ongoing federal scrutiny.
One significant change includes the introduction of fixed periods of stay for visa holders, replacing the more flexible, previous arrangement. Additionally, the grace period for F visa holders has been reduced. Students now have only 30 days, instead of 60, following the completion of their studies to either depart the United States, transfer to another educational institution, or alter their immigration status.
Indian officials have acknowledged that visa and immigration regulations are matters of national sovereignty. However, they have reiterated their resolve to assist Indian nationals in navigating these updated rules and to mitigate any challenges they may encounter as a result.