India is engaging with U.S. authorities in response to recent changes in American visa regulations that may impact Indian students and academic visitors. During a media briefing on Friday, Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesperson for India’s External Affairs Ministry, stated that New Delhi is attentively observing the situation and will continue to address any issues faced by Indian nationals with the United States.
The changes, which have been implemented by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, introduce more stringent residency requirements for F, J, and I visa holders. These visas are typically issued to international students, exchange visitors, and media professionals. The revised guidelines replace the previous system, which allowed visa holders to stay in the U.S. for extended periods with minimal ongoing federal oversight, with fixed terms of stay.
One significant alteration involves the reduction of the grace period for F visa holders upon completion of their studies. Students now have a 30-day window, reduced from the previous 60 days, to either leave the U.S., transfer to a new educational institution, or adjust their immigration status.
Indian officials have acknowledged that visa and immigration policies fall under the sovereign jurisdiction of the respective countries. Nonetheless, they have reiterated their dedication to assisting Indian citizens in navigating these updated regulations and minimizing any potential hardships that may arise.