Dear Current and Future International Students, Scholars, and Recent Alumni,

We are writing to share that the federal court in Boston heard oral arguments today on the legality of the June 4 presidential proclamation restricting entry for those holding student visas at Harvard. The court had previously issued an emergency order blocking implementation of the proclamation, which Harvard regards as unlawful and unconstitutional. Harvard has petitioned the court for a more enduring preliminary injunction that would block the proclamation for the duration of the case, pending appeals. During the hearing, the court indicated that it intends to issue a decision by June 23 on that motion for the preliminary injunction.

A full legal resolution is still pending, but while the case proceeds, our Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification remains intact, and our international students and scholars can continue their academic and research activities at Harvard. Please review the Harvard International Office (HIO)’s updated immigration FAQs for more information and contact your HIO advisor if you have questions about your individual situation. 

If you are currently applying for or renewing your visa, we encourage you to continue with the normal application process. Thank you to those who have already filled out the HIO’s visa status survey to update the HIO on where you are in this process. If you haven't yet or if your status has changed, please take one minute to do so now.  

We recognize the toll that this prolonged uncertainty takes on our community. We will continue to communicate with you, share updates, and fight for you. 

Sincerely,

The Harvard International Office & The Office of the Vice Provost for International Affairs