As of July 2025, Harvard University retains its ability to sponsor F-1 and J-1 visa holders, following a series of temporary federal court rulings that block enforcement of recent federal actions. These include the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) attempt to revoke Harvard’s SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) certification and the Presidential Proclamation issued on June 4, 2025, suspending the entry of certain Harvard-sponsored international students and scholars from 19 designated countries.
Q: Can Harvard University still sponsor F-1 and J-1 visas?
A: Yes. Harvard University’s SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) certification remains active as of July 2025. A federal court has temporarily blocked both the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) attempt to revoke this certification and the June 4 Presidential Proclamation that aimed to suspend entry of certain international students and scholars. While the case proceeds, Harvard may continue issuing Form I-20s and DS-2019s, allowing international students and scholars to apply for F-1 and J-1 visas.
Q: Are the court’s decisions final?
A: No. These court orders are preliminary. Although they provide short-term protection for Harvard’s international community, a final legal resolution has not yet been issued. DHS is still conducting an administrative review of Harvard’s F-1 visa program.
Q: Can current international students and scholars remain in the U.S. and continue their activities at Harvard?
A: Yes. Those already in the United States on valid F-1 or J-1 visas can remain in lawful status and continue their studies, research, and employment activities—including OPT and STEM OPT programs—while the court proceedings continue.
Q: What about students or scholars currently outside the U.S.?
A: If you are from one of the 19 countries listed in the June 4 Presidential Proclamation, you may face entry restrictions if attempting to enter or re-enter the United States. However, if you are already in the U.S. with a valid visa, you may continue your activities without interruption.
Q: Can new international students and scholars still apply for visas to attend Harvard?
A: Yes. Harvard continues to issue the required immigration documents—Form I-20s for F-1 visas and DS-2019s for J-1 visas. You may apply for a visa through a U.S. consulate, though the final issuance remains subject to consular processing and local procedures.
Q: Are there additional travel restrictions we should be aware of?
A: Possibly. The U.S. government may expand current travel restrictions to include additional countries or visa categories. We recommend foreign nationals carefully monitor federal updates and consult with legal counsel before making international travel plans.
Q: What resources are available to international students and scholars at Harvard?
A: The Harvard International Office (HIO) remains the primary source of immigration support for Harvard-sponsored students and scholars. Additionally, the Harvard Representation Initiative (HRI) offers assistance to foreign nationals who are not on Harvard-sponsored visas, including those with Green Cards, DACA status, or Temporary Protected Status.
Conclusion
Although Harvard’s ability to sponsor international students remains intact for now, the situation is evolving. At Ahluwalia Law Offices, we remain committed to guiding our clients—students, scholars, and investors—through these uncertain legal landscapes. If you are concerned about your immigration status, visa renewal, or ability to travel, we encourage you to speak with our team directly.
