Should International Students Be Concerned About a New Travel Ban Under President Trump’s Second Term?
As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to begin his second term in office in January 2025, international students in the United States are expressing growing concerns about the possibility of renewed travel bans and immigration restrictions. Reflecting on the executive orders from his first term, which targeted individuals from several predominantly Muslim countries, many international students fear a resurgence of similar policies that could disrupt their education and residency in the U.S.
President Trump’s First Term in Office
In 2017, during his initial week in office, President Trump signed Executive Order 13769, commonly referred to as the “travel ban.” This order restricted entry into the U.S. for citizens from countries including Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. The policy led to widespread confusion and legal challenges, significantly affecting international students and scholars from these nations. Many faced difficulties returning to the U.S. after traveling abroad, and prospective students encountered obstacles in obtaining visas.
In response to legal challenges, the Trump administration issued a revised executive order. Notably, they removed Iraq from the list of affected countries and included more explicit language regarding exceptions and waivers. The revised order allowed for case-by-case waivers and exceptions for individuals, such as students holding valid visas from several of the countries included in the ban. Even with these provisions, the situation remained complex for international students.
Current Concerns
With the upcoming inauguration, several U.S. universities have proactively issued advisories to their international student communities. Institutions such as Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and the University of Southern California have recommended that international students currently abroad return to the U.S. before the inauguration on January 20, 2025. This precautionary measure aims to mitigate potential risks associated with anticipated policy changes.
The apprehension is not limited to students from the countries affected by the previous travel ban. There is speculation that a new executive order could expand the list of restricted countries. Given the substantial number of international students from these countries, the impact could be extensive.
Why the EB-5 Program is a Smart Solution for International Students
For international students seeking a long-term solution to the uncertainties surrounding U.S. immigration policies, the EB-5 program presents an excellent opportunity. By investing $800,000 in a qualifying U.S. government pre-approved real estate project, students and their families can obtain a Green Card, which grants them lawful permanent residency in the United States.
Unlike student or work visas, a Green Card provides stability and greatly reduces the risk of travel bans or sudden policy changes. As permanent residents through the EB-5 program, individuals can apply for U.S. citizenship and a U.S. passport after fulfilling the required residency period. This will allow students to freely travel in and out of the U.S., pursue educational and career opportunities without restrictions, and enjoy peace of mind and long-term security. This makes the EB-5 program a compelling alternative for those looking to avoid potential disruptions and secure their future in the U.S.
Beyond protection from policy changes due to shifting politics, the EB-5 program offers numerous benefits for both current and prospective international students. Read our blog here to learn more.
Contact Us Today
At The American Legal Center, our team of U.S. licensed lawyers understands the unique challenges and uncertainties that international students face. With extensive experience in the EB-5 program, we are here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth transition toward obtaining your Green Card. For more information about the EB-5 program or to discuss your specific circumstances, contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward securing your U.S. residency.
