The State Department and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced plans to terminate current Chinese student visas and treat future visa applicants with increased scrutiny. Determining whether applicants are connected to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is the specific focal point. This policy applies to visa applicants from both China proper and Hong Kong.

It’s unclear if the new policy will target applicants to any specific areas of study. It’s also uncertain how the departments define having a connection to the CCP. An estimated one hundred million people belong to the CCP. However, membership is usually a means of acquiring social status or economic security. If the government defines ‘connections’ as simply being a member of the CCP, many Chinese student visas could be revoked.

The announcement also contained little in the way of any details about the additional measures the DHS and State Department would place on the visa application process. Both departments stated the increased scrutiny of visa applicants will apply to those studying in critical fields, but neither has concretely defined ‘critical fields.’ It’s also unclear if the policy shift will specifically target one student visa category over others.

Over a quarter of a million Chinese students were enrolled in U.S. universities in the previous year alone. Given the unspecified parameters of the new policy, it’s unclear how many individuals could be affected. Until the policy shift is explained in greater detail, individuals should take proactive action and seek professional legal counsel to discuss the next steps.

As always, ImmigrantionUSA actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, we’re with you every step of the way.