Trump Blocks New Visas for Harvard Students — Judge Steps In

On June 5, 2025, President Donald Trump signed a proclamation suspending the issuance of new visas for international students planning to attend Harvard University. This action, citing national security concerns, would have prevented new foreign students from enrolling at Harvard and directed the Secretary of State to consider revoking visas for current international students.

Harvard University challenged this proclamation in court, arguing that it was a retaliatory measure infringing upon the institution’s First Amendment rights and academic freedom. The university emphasized that international students constitute approximately 27% of its student body and are integral to its academic and research endeavors.

Later that same day, U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs issued a temporary restraining order, halting the enforcement of the proclamation. The judge cited the potential for “immediate and irreparable injury” to the university and its students if the order were not blocked.   

This legal battle is part of a broader conflict between the Trump administration and elite academic institutions. In recent months, the administration has taken actions against several universities, including freezing federal funding and threatening tax-exempt status, citing concerns over campus policies and alleged ideological biases.   

Harvard’s leadership has vowed to continue defending its international community and uphold its commitment to academic freedom and institutional autonomy. The university’s legal challenges against the administration’s actions are ongoing, with further court proceedings expected in the coming weeks.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the original article on CNN: Trump signs proclamation to suspend visas for new Harvard international students.