On June 4, 2025, President Donald J. Trump issued a Presidential Proclamation titled “Enhancing National Security by Addressing Risks at Harvard University.” This Proclamation took immediate effect and carries major implications for international students and exchange visitors seeking to study or conduct research at Harvard University.
What the Proclamation Says
The administration alleges that Harvard has failed to adequately address “foreign entanglements,” information-sharing obligations, and other concerns related to national security. As a result, the Proclamation declares Harvard an “unsuitable destination” for international students and researchers – at least temporarily. The order invokes authority under Section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), giving the President the ability to suspend or restrict entry of noncitizens where it is deemed detrimental to U.S. interests.
Who Is Affected?
This Proclamation directly affects foreign nationals seeking to enter the U.S. on F, M, or J visas for the purpose of:
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Studying at Harvard University
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Participating in an exchange program hosted by Harvard
Specifically:
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New Students and Visitors: Entry is suspended for those whose primary purpose is to attend Harvard through the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) after June 4, 2025.
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Current Harvard Students and Scholars: The Secretary of State has been instructed to consider revoking the F, M, or J visas of current Harvard affiliates who may pose a national security or public safety risk.
Note: This proclamation does not apply to students or visitors attending other U.S. institutions.
The “National Interest” Exception
A key carveout in the proclamation allows exceptions for individuals whose entry is deemed in the “national interest” by the Secretary of State or Secretary of Homeland Security. The specifics of what qualifies under this exception remain unclear and are likely to spark legal debate and case-by-case review.
Legal Pushback and Harvard’s Response
Harvard University has already filed legal motions to challenge the Proclamation, arguing that it is a politically motivated and unlawful action that undermines higher education and international collaboration. The outcome of these legal efforts will shape whether and how this policy is enforced in the long term.
Key Takeaways
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Targeted Action: Only Harvard University is named in this order.
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New Visa Suspensions: New F, M, and J visa applicants for Harvard will not be permitted to enter the U.S.
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Current Visas at Risk: Existing visa holders affiliated with Harvard may be reviewed or revoked.
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Legal Challenge Underway: Harvard has amended its lawsuits to block this order.
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Uncertainty Ahead: Further clarification is expected on how the national interest exception will be applied.
What You Should Do
If you are a current or prospective international student at Harvard—or planning a J-1 exchange through the university – consult with a qualified immigration attorney as soon as possible. Options for re-routing your study plans or seeking exception under the Proclamation may be available.
Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer
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