Hope US gives Indian students visa on merit: MEA on US visa interview pause

In a firm diplomatic nudge, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has urged the United States to prioritize merit-based and timely issuance of student visas amid an unsettling US student visa delay sparked by the Trump administration’s latest immigration directive. The MEA’s response follows reports of a sudden freeze on scheduling new visa interviews for international students, casting a cloud of uncertainty over thousands preparing to start their academic journeys this fall.

At a press briefing on Thursday, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the significance of timely visa approvals for Indian students who contribute not only to academic institutions but also to the broader global economy.

“We are looking at the situation. A visa is a sovereign right of a country. We would like to urge the US to give visas in time for students on merit,” Jaiswal said.

Pause on New Visa Interviews Stirs Global Concern

According to investigative reporting by The Guardian, the Trump administration has issued directives to US embassies and consulates worldwide to halt new appointments for student (F, M) and exchange visitor (J) visa applicants. This indefinite suspension is reportedly linked to a proposed policy shift involving stringent review of applicants’ social media presence—an initiative intended to bolster national security.

Consular officials have been instructed to pause new interview scheduling as the administration explores ways to vet social media accounts, including activity on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter). While intended as a precautionary measure, the implications of this step are significant.

India Among the Most Affected by US Student Visa Delay

India, with nearly 330,000 students traveling to the US in the 2023–24 academic year, stands to be one of the countries most adversely affected by the US student visa delay. These students are often on tight academic timelines, with university sessions commencing in August and September.

“The welfare of Indian students abroad remains a top priority for the Government of India,” Jaiswal reiterated. “While the issuance of visas is a sovereign function, we hope that the applications of Indian students will be considered on merit and that they will be able to join their academic programs on time.”

International students collectively contribute a staggering $43.8 billion to the US economy annually, according to estimates from NAFSA: Association of International Educators. Delays in visa processing risk not only educational disruption but also significant financial loss for US institutions.

Deportation Data and Diplomatic Developments

In response to queries regarding immigration enforcement, Jaiswal shared that 1,080 Indian nationals have been deported from the US since January 2025. Of these, about 62% returned on commercial flights, and all repatriations followed thorough verification of nationality by Indian authorities.

Additionally, in light of recent remarks by US Senator Marco Rubio suggesting potential visa restrictions for officials from countries allegedly involved in harassing American diplomats, Jaiswal responded diplomatically:

“We are aware of the comments and are evaluating the implications for Indian officials. Visa policies are sovereign matters, and we respect that principle.”

Trade Talks Continue Despite Diplomatic Hiccups

Amid these rising tensions, diplomatic engagement remains robust. Jaiswal confirmed that India and the US are continuing trade negotiations, particularly toward an early harvest agreement that would pave the way for deeper bilateral economic cooperation. A recent Indian delegation’s visit to Washington focused on advancing these discussions, and further updates are expected as progress materializes.

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