POLICY UPDATE: Trump Administration Reinstating Student and Researcher Visas Amid Controversial Social Media Scrutiny

In a major reversal, the Trump administration has begun reinstating previously revoked visas for international students, researchers, and recent graduates — a move that follows mounting legal pressure and national attention on immigration policy shifts. The action comes after approximately 4,700 visa revocations, including F-1 student visas, OPT work authorizations, and researcher visas, with many of the affected individuals allegedly targeted based on social media activity and political expression.

Social Media Now a Factor in Immigration Decisions

On April 9, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a highly controversial new policy: social media activity may now be considered in immigration decisions, particularly affecting students, researchers, faculty, and green card applicants.

Citing concerns over “antisemitic activity,” USCIS has begun treating certain online expressions as negative discretionary factors in evaluating visa eligibility. The agency claims broad legal authority to take such actions, invoking statutes like the Alien Enemies Act of 1798.

Since the policy took effect, more than 525 visas have been revoked, sometimes with no prior notice, leaving individuals without employment authorization or academic standing overnight.

SEVIS Access Restored – Legal Reinstatements Underway

Amid backlash and legal action, the administration has started reinstating SEVIS records and restoring legal status for many students. During an April 26 federal court hearing in Oakland, DOJ attorneys revealed that ICE is now developing a new SEVIS revocation framework, and until then, courts are reactivating SEVIS records case by case.

A federal judge is currently weighing whether to issue a nationwide injunction to halt further revocations. Government attorneys argue that the policy shift makes such an order unnecessary, as the agency is already taking corrective action.

Legal and Constitutional Concerns

The policy has drawn significant legal and public criticism, raising serious First Amendment concerns about freedom of speech and political expression. Reports have surfaced of visa denials and revocations based on:

• Historical or minor infractions

• Social media posts supporting pro-Palestinian causes

• Associations with organizations deemed controversial by DHS

In many cases, no formal explanation was provided at all.

What You Should Know

If you are a student, scholar, or immigrant currently in the U.S., it’s essential to:

• Review your public online presence for any potentially sensitive content

• Understand your current immigration status before traveling

• Seek immediate legal counsel if you’ve received a visa revocation, SEVIS termination, or USCIS notice

We Can Help

At Williams Global Law, our team of experienced immigration attorneys is actively assisting students and professionals impacted by these policies. If you or someone you know has been affected, contact our office immediately to evaluate your options and protect your legal status.

📞 Schedule a confidential consultation today at this link.