India is actively engaging with U.S. authorities to address concerns stemming from recent changes to American visa regulations that may impact Indian students and academic visitors. On Friday, Randhir Jaiswal, a spokesperson for the External Affairs Ministry, emphasized that New Delhi is vigilantly monitoring the situation and is committed to addressing any issues that may arise for Indian citizens with Washington.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has implemented new rules that impose stricter residency requirements for holders of F, J, and I category visas. These visas are typically issued to international students, exchange visitors, and media professionals. Under the revised regulations, non-immigrant visa holders in these categories will now face fixed periods of stay instead of the previous system that allowed for extended stays without continuous federal oversight.
Significantly, the updated rules also alter the grace period for F visa holders, which affects students after they complete their studies. Previously, students had 60 days to leave the United States, transfer to another institution, or adjust their immigration status. The new regulations have reduced this grace period to 30 days, potentially impacting Indian students planning their activities post-completion of their studies.
Indian officials have reiterated that while visa and immigration policies are matters of national sovereignty, they remain dedicated to assisting Indian citizens abroad. The government aims to minimize any challenges that Indian nationals might face due to these updated visa rules, ensuring continued support for those affected.