US Visa Restrictions Tightened for Harvard Applicants Amid New Security Checks

The US Department of State has issued directives to all US embassies and consulates worldwide, mandating additional security checks on visa applicants intending to travel to Harvard University. According to a diplomatic cable obtained by Reuters on Friday (May 30), Secretary of State Marco Rubio instructed immediate implementation of ‘additional screenings’ for individuals applying for non-immigrant visas with plans to visit Harvard for any purpose. This move extends the crackdown initiated by President Donald Trump against Harvard University. The directive applies not only to prospective students but also current students, employees, contributors, guest speakers, and even tourists. The cable criticizes Harvard for failing to maintain a campus environment free from violence and antisemitism. It emphasizes that the enhanced measures aim to help consular officers identify applicants with histories of antisemitic harassment or violence. Historically, the US required extra scrutiny for applicants from specific countries. Applying such procedures specifically against Harvard marks an unprecedented use of the visa issuance process against a university now viewed unfavorably. Consular officers are advised to question an applicant’s credibility if their social media accounts are private. The memo states, ‘If you are not fully convinced that the applicant will engage in activities consistent with their non-immigrant visa status while in the US, you should deny the visa.’ Recently, Rubio claimed he personally revoked visas for hundreds, possibly thousands, including students, involved in activities opposing American foreign policy priorities. ‘If you come here to cause trouble, you’re likely going to have trouble,’ Rubio told reporters on April 7.