Washington, August 25: A group of 30 U.S. senators has called on Secretary of State Marco Rubio to address delays in the processing of student and exchange visitor visas. They warn that if the situation does not improve, many students may not arrive in the U.S. before the start of the new academic year.
Led by Independent Senator Angus King from Maine, the lawmakers demand timely processing of F, M, and J visa applications and have raised concerns about the lack of available visa appointments at several U.S. embassies and consulates.
In their letter, the senators expressed, “We are concerned about the unavailability of visa appointments for students and researchers who wish to arrive in the U.S. before classes begin and the new academic year starts.” They noted that individuals have reported difficulties in securing timely appointments at some U.S. missions, increasing anxiety among students about whether they will receive their visas in time to start their studies.
The letter urges the State Department to prioritize interviews and processing for student visa applications. It also requests that the department expand interview waivers for verified returning students, ensure proper staffing, and provide greater transparency to applicants and educational institutions.
The senators wrote, “These issues arise at a time when major educational institutions require talented students and experts from around the world for the new academic term. If not resolved, the entire education and skilled talent pipeline could be disrupted.”
They highlighted that international students contribute approximately $43 billion to the local economy each year and supported over 355,000 American jobs during the 2024-25 academic year.
According to the letter, international students make up only about 6 percent of the total student population in U.S. higher education, yet their enrollment generates significant revenue for universities and creates additional opportunities for American students.
The senators also noted that international students enhance U.S. national security by promoting global relationships, cultural understanding, and long-lasting diplomatic ties. Continued delays in visa processing could jeopardize these benefits.
Lawmakers have inquired about the resources allocated to reduce pending visa cases and whether there have been any changes to visa processing priorities after the summer of 2025. They have also requested information on the guidelines sent to embassies and consulates, the distribution of interview slots, and the average processing times for F, M, and J visas at the five largest visa processing centers.
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