The impact of the pandemic on student immigration in the US

The global Coronavirus pandemic paused immigration almost completely in most countries around the world, affecting some sectors more than others. For instance, colleges and universities in the US rely heavily on foreign students to provide subsidies to American students and improve infrastructure for quality education.

However, the health crisis allowed then-President Donald Trump to suspend the issuance of visas of almost all kinds, except those related to the US food supply chain. As a result, the enrollment of international students in the US’ colleges and universities declined considerably, greatly affecting the economic stability of these institutions.

In fact, before the sudden arrival of COVID-19, the Trump administration already wanted to reduce immigration in general, including student immigration and alternatives available for foreign students to gain work experience in the country.

It is important to clarify that foreign students invest approximately $41 billion annually to be able to study in the US. They also tend to become highly qualified workers, which greatly contributes to the socioeconomic development of local companies, and they promote entrepreneurial projects that create thousands of jobs for the American population.

Enrollment of foreign students decreased considerably during 2020

According to the annual report taken from SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System), the enrollment of foreign students decreased by 17.86% during 2020 compared to 2019 (calendar year). With this, we refer to:

• F-1 Visa Holders: International students planning to complete an academic course of study in the US.
• M-1 Visa Holders: International students planning to complete a vocational course of study in the US.

Educational institutions, whether colleges, universities or others, must be certified by SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program), so that foreign students can receive a legal permit to enter the US.

Apart from that, in August 2020, when enrollment figures of foreign students are usually higher since the school year starts in the US, there was a 91% drop in F-1 student enrollment and 72% in M-1 student enrollment.

Immigration is getting back to normal, start your process today!

The world has been going through a global pandemic unprecedented in recent history for more than a year. The health crisis undoubtedly affected the immigration sector, especially in first world countries like the US.

However, the national vaccination project is already underway and President Joe Biden’s administration has a different view than Trump when it comes to immigration and the presence of foreigners in the US.

Therefore, his administration has already reopened multiple alternatives for immigrant communities and removed several restrictive policies implemented during Trump’s term (2017-2021).

Adding to that, the Biden administration strongly supports student immigration and plans, if possible, to expand options available to foreign students, who can also gain work experience in the US through different visa programs.

Apart from student immigration, most immigration processes are gradually returning to normal and it is the right time to start your process with the help of experts in immigration matters.

If you, a family member, or a friend need help with an immigration case, please contact Motion Law today to schedule a FREE Consultation with one of our expert immigration attorneys. Our team will be happy to guide you through your immigration journey in the US.

Please contact Motion Law Immigration today at: (202) 918-1799.