Why the US is targeting Harvard's J-1 visa programme amid broader political tensions
The US State Department has launched an investigation into Harvard University's participation in the Exchange Visitor Program, which allows institutions to sponsor J-1 visas for international scholars, researchers, and certain students.
The investigation, made public on a Wednesday, is the latest development in a series of federal actions scrutinising the University's international activities.
As reported by The Harvard Crimson, the State Department did not allege specific misconduct in its public statement but said the inquiry aims to ensure such visa programmes 'do not run contrary to our nation's interests.' The department also reasserted that all sponsors must comply fully with visa regulations and support US foreign policy and national security objectives.
J-1 visa programme under federal scrutiny
The J-1 visa programme is part of the Exchange Visitor Program (EVP), which promotes cultural and educational exchange. Harvard, along with other universities, uses the programme to bring in international scholars and educators. The current investigation forms part of a wider effort by the Trump administration to exert oversight over institutions hosting foreign nationals.
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According to The Harvard Crimson, Secretary of State Marco Rubio informed Harvard President Alan M. Garber in a letter that the University must submit a comprehensive set of records related to its J-1 visa sponsorships within one week. A State Department spokesperson declined to specify what exact records have been requested.
Connection to wider federal action
This inquiry into the EVP follows earlier actions targeting Harvard's involvement in the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), a separate system managed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that oversees international student records for F-1 and M-1 visa holders.
Harvard does not host students under M-1 visas.
The Trump administration has raised concerns linking Harvard's international programmes to broader foreign policy and national security issues. The Harvard Crimson reported that the administration considers statements such as calls to cut military aid to Israel potentially valid grounds for revoking visas. The administration has also flagged Harvard's connections with China as possible national security risks.
Obstacles faced by international visa holders
Prior to the announcement of the State Department probe, international scholars on J-1 visas and students on F-1 visas had already begun encountering difficulties. In June, at least two incoming scholars were turned away at Boston airport, though Harvard later confirmed they were expected to be granted entry, according to The Harvard Crimson.
In response to the investigation, Harvard spokesperson Jason A. Newton described the move as 'retaliatory' and argued it violates the University's First Amendment rights.
He said Harvard 'continues to enrol and sponsor international scholars, researchers, and students, and will protect its international community,' as quoted by The Harvard Crimson.
Broader federal pressure on Harvard continues
As reported by The Harvard Crimson, federal agencies have issued multiple demands to Harvard, including a subpoena from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) requesting records on international students' post-graduation work under Optional Practical Training, as well as videos of student protests dating back to 2020.
DHS previously warned the University it could lose its SEVP certification unless it produced detailed internal communications and protest records.
After Harvard submitted a partial response, the DHS deemed the reply insufficient. In late May, the department revoked Harvard's SEVP certification, followed by an executive order by President Trump restricting entry for Harvard-bound students. A federal judge has since granted preliminary relief, blocking both actions.
Investigations impact funding and institutional operations
The federal crackdown has significantly affected Harvard's research funding. The University has filed a lawsuit in response to the freeze, with the case currently pending. The government's actions have already resulted in a loss of over $2 billion in federal research grants, The Harvard Crimson reported.
Congress and federal agencies have opened more than a dozen investigations into Harvard, including probes into hiring and admissions practices, links to foreign governments, and antisemitism allegations. Senator Rubio has been directly involved, urging further scrutiny, including a recent call for the Treasury Department to investigate a Harvard-hosted event involving sanctioned Chinese officials.
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