On June 4, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order entitled “Enhancing National Security by Addressing Risks at Harvard University.”
This order does the following three actions:
- Suspends entry for anyone coming to the US to study at Harvard University under F, M, or J status. It specifically says that those studying at other universities are not impacted. This proclamation remains in effect until December 6, 2025. By September 6, 2025, a recommendation will be made whether to extend this suspension of entry. Exceptions shall be made where there is a national interest as determined by the Department of State or Department of Homeland Security.
- Directs the Department of State to consider revoking the visas of anyone currently in the US in F, M, or J status. Note: The revocation of a visa is not necessarily equivalent to the termination of one’s immigration status.
- Directs the Department of State, Attorney General, and Department of Homeland Security to coordinate efforts to implement this proclamation and to limit Harvard University’s ability to participate in SEVP and SEVIS. Exceptions to the order shall be made where there is a national interest as determined by the Department of State or Department of Homeland Security.
There has been no guidance regarding those individuals already in the US at Harvard in F, M, or J status, or Harvard alum using F-1 OPT or F-1 STEM OPT. We will continue to monitor this.
The above has been provided for informational purposes; please check with your Clark Lau attorney to see how these apply to your specific circumstances.
***UPDATE: Please note that Harvard has filed a lawsuit against the White House regarding this order, and as of Friday, 6/6/2025, the court has suspended implementation of this order until parties have had a chance to present their arguments. Stay tuned!