Important announcements and information for international students will be posted here. The most recent updates appear at the top.
Messages
June 23, 2025
The Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS) Michigan State University (J-1 Visa Program) writing with an important update on several immigration-related matters that may impact J-1 scholars.
Visa Interview Suspension and Vetting Practices: U.S Department of State has reportedly paused visa interviews for international students and scholars planning to study in the United States. This decision will have an impact on the processing timeline for visa applications.
Scholars who are currently outside the United States and need a visa to return have been advised by OISS to remain in close contact with the U.S. embassy or consulate handling their case. Our current understanding is that previously scheduled visa interview appointments will proceed as planned. However, most embassies and consulates have suspended scheduling new appointments.
Individuals with a valid J visa stamp are eligible to re-enter the United States with their valid visa stamp if they are not subject to the new Travel Ban – more on that below. Scholars who are concerned about the validity of their visa have been advised to check the status of their current visa stamp by visiting this website.
Please note that Canadian citizens are not required to have an F or J visa stamp to enter the United States.
J-1 scholars who are currently inside the U.S. have been strongly advised not to travel outside the United States.
New Travel Ban: On June 4, the White House issued a proclamation that will limit entry into the United States for citizens from certain countries. The new policy took effect on Monday, June 9, 2025 at 12:01 a.m. EDT. See the proclamation and the supporting fact sheet for more details.
The Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS) is reviewing this proclamation, consulting with immigration experts, and conferring with international education colleagues across the country to assess the impact on MSU. OISS is also reaching out directly to students and scholars from affected countries.
Citizens of countries listed in the proclamation:
· Those currently in the U.S. are strongly advised against international travel.
· Those currently outside the U.S. are urged to return to the U.S. immediately. Although the proclamation indicates exceptions for valid visa holders, there is still a very high risk that citizens of countries listed in the proclamation will not be allowed to enter the U.S. once the restrictions took effect.
Please continue to monitor the Immigration Alerts page on the OISS website for important immigration information and updates and contact OISS with any questions.
This is a very challenging time for international students, scholars and their families, and it is important that they feel the full support of the Michigan State University community. However, fractured communications from different sources can cause confusion or stress, despite the best intentions. Scholars may not always know what the most current information is or who to go to as their main contact, so it’s important that we are coordinated and thoughtful with our messages.
OISS should always be regarded as the primary source of immigration information and advising for MSU's international community. In urgent situations, OISS can be reached at +1-517-353-1720. After business hours, callers will be connected with the staff member on duty. Additional useful resources include:
In general, colleges and departments should only send special messages to their international student and scholar audiences when there is something specific and necessary to share. However, inclusive language that affirms your support through regular channels such as a college newsletter is always welcome and appropriate. Please continue to reassure international Spartans that MSU is actively responding to this evolving situation and advocating for policies that support their presence and success.
We will continue to keep you updated as we learn more, and please reach out with any questions. Thank you for continuing to partner with us to foster a welcoming and inclusive Global Spartan community.”