The Indian government is engaging with US officials to resolve issues stemming from new American visa regulations that could impact Indian students and academic visitors. During a media briefing on Friday, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s External Affairs Ministry, confirmed the country’s proactive stance in monitoring these developments and reiterated its willingness to address any complications faced by Indian nationals with Washington.
The recent amendments by the US Department of Homeland Security introduce more stringent residency requirements for F, J, and I category visa holders, which include international students, exchange visitors, and media professionals. This alteration replaces the former system that allowed these individuals to remain in the United States for longer durations without ongoing federal supervision, with a new framework that enforces fixed periods of stay.
Among the changes, the grace period for F visa holders post-study has been shortened. Instead of the previous 60 days, students now have only 30 days to either depart the country, transfer to another educational institution, or change their immigration status.
Indian authorities have highlighted that visa and immigration policies are matters of national sovereignty. Nevertheless, they have reaffirmed their dedication to assisting Indian citizens and reducing any hardships that might arise due to these updated US visa rules.