The United States has revoked the student visas of over 400 foreign nationals—including five Bangladeshi students—for participating in pro-Palestine demonstrations over the past two years. US Secretary of State Mark Rubio confirmed the move last Friday, stating that the cancellations were linked to behaviour deemed violent during the protests. The decision, made in coordination with American universities, has sparked concern across international student communities.
Among the affected Bangladeshis are two students from Sylhet, two from Dhaka, and one from Bogura. The decision has unsettled many of the more than 30,000 Bangladeshi students currently enrolled in US institutions. Notably, even naturalised citizens have faced employment restrictions for their involvement in demonstrations.
Bangladeshi-British lawyer Moin Chowdhury, who is representing one of the impacted students, urged caution. “This is a difficult time,” he said. “Students must be vigilant and ensure their legal documents are in order.”
Harvard University, where five students have had their visas revoked, has formally protested the move, citing a lack of consultation. Other affected institutions include Kent State, the University of Akron, and Minnesota State University.
Meanwhile, 48 students in California have reportedly been detained. Immigration rights groups have condemned the crackdown, warning it undermines freedom of expression and democratic values.