Donald Trump inauguration: What his second term means for international students?
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Donald Trump inauguration: What his second term means for international students?

Team Careers360Updated on 21 Jan 2025, 05:36 PM IST

With Trump 2.0 begins to start its tenure with Trump inauguration, this will have consequences for immigration globally. Whether it is H1-B visa holders, green card worry lots or students on F1 visa worrying for OPT curbs, there are a lot of uncertainty regarding Trump's new immigration policies. The Republicans plan to curb the definition of 'specialty occupation' has already threatened tech professionals. As it will make it harder for professionals looking for roles without specific degree requirements. Indian students form a significant chunk of the US higher education demography. As per the Open Doors Report 2024, more than 2,00,000 Indian students were enrolled in US universities. This makes India the largest source of international students in the US. Before his inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump has declared to transform US immigration system. He said “By the time the sun sets tomorrow, the invasion of our country will have come to a halt,”.

This Story also Contains

  1. International Students in USA
  2. Uncertainty among international students in US
  3. Green card holders
  4. Impact on H1-B Professionals in USA
Donald Trump inauguration: What his second term means for international students?
Donald Trump inauguration: What his second term means for international students?

International Students in USA

OPT is a big draw for international students in the US, so any plans on potential restrictions on the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program or the exclusion of the STEM extension have serious consequences for international students looking to gain work exposure in big tech in the US. Also, employment at third parties can also be prohibited further reducing job opportunities for recent graduates.

Uncertainty among international students in US

Earlier, US universities urged international students to return to their campuses before President-elect Donald Trump's January 20 inauguration. This already led to fear and uncertainty across US universities. As per a recent survey by Keystone Education Group, 42% of students from various countries reported that they are now unlikely to consider the US as their preferred study destination. The shift by Trump's administration towards immigration, visa restrictions and rumoured OPT changes are some of the factors that concern international students.

Green card holders

There is a rumour that certain kind of employment-based categories will be suspended from the list of jobs currently under Green card jobs bank. Also, those who are eligible for automatic Green cards under the STEM graduate policy are also worried about the future prospects of the policy.

Impact on H1-B Professionals in USA

There is uncertainty among H1-B Visa holders regarding the immigration policy, also, work privileges for H-4 visa holders, majorly spouses of H1-B holders could also be curtailed. With Trump coming to office, there are changes expected in H1-B visa policy.

Read more: H1-B visa update: Top 5 Key Updates for New H1-B Visa Reforms in US

With Trump's advocating for stricter visa norms and larger scrutiny, Indian students looking to pursue higher education in the US is a worried lot. Currently, it is advised to prospective international to follow the wait and watch policy.

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