Chinese scholars express concern and frustration following Rubio's pledge to rescind student visas
U.S. to Revoke Visas of Chinese Students in Specific Fields and with CCP Connections
WASHINGTON D.C. - The United States is set to revoke the visas of some Chinese students, targeting those studying in critical fields and those with links to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio's announcement.
China is the second-largest origin country for international students in the U.S., with more than 270,000 students from China enrolled during the 2023-2024 academic year, representing a significant portion of the foreign student population.
Rubio's announcement has sparked concerns and anger among Chinese students, with many now uncertain about their futures in the U.S. Liqin, a Chinese student at Johns Hopkins University, called the move a "new version of the Chinese Exclusion Act," a 19th-century law that prohibited Chinese immigrants and Japanese immigrants from naturalizing as U.S. citizens.
The U.S. government's decision has been criticized by China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, who described it as "unreasonable" and a violation of the U.S.'s commitment to freedom and openness. China has lodged a protest with the U.S. over the matter.
Tensions between the U.S. and China over Chinese students studying overseas have been growing for years. In the past, China's Ministry of Education has warned students about visa difficulties in the U.S., and there have been reports of unfair interrogations and deportations of Chinese students at U.S. airports.
The news of the U.S. visa revocations has led some Chinese students to consider studying in the U.K. or other countries instead. Zou Renge, a University of Chicago student, has decided to stay in the U.S. and look for work rather than taking her planned time off and working in humanitarian aid programs abroad.
Amid the uncertainty, some institutions in Hong Kong are offering support to Chinese students facing potential discrimination in the U.S. Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has stated that the city will provide "the best support and assistance" to students who have been treated unfairly by American policies.
The U.S. has long been known for its diversity and welcoming attitude towards international students, but critics argue that this policy shift will hurt the nation's development by limiting these cultural and academic exchanges. Chen, a Chinese student at Purdue University, expressed his disappointment, stating: "I was expecting freedom and tolerance. The U.S. was known for its diversity which allows international students to fit in, but it is a pity to see such change."
The practical implementation and scope of the revised visa policy remain uncertain, with embassies and consular officials awaiting further instructions from federal authorities.
- The uncertainty caused by the visa revocations has led some Chinese students to explore online-education as an alternative.
- The weather in Seattle, particularly during the rainy season, might deter some Chinese students who are considering studying in the U.S. and looking for a change.
- The decision to revoke visas of Chinese students could potentially impact the education-and-self-development sector, given the large number of students involved.
- Technology firms in the business sector are keeping a close eye on the visa policy changes, as they often rely on international talent, including Chinese students.
- The government's decision to revoke visas has not only caused concern for Chinese students but also raised questions about general-news reporting on the matter, particularly in the context of U.S.-China relations.
- The environment in the U.S. has always been an attraction for many international students, but the current political climate may force Chinese students to reconsider their choices.
- The economic implications of the visa policy shift could extend to local communities in cities with higher concentrations of Chinese students and their spending, such as Seattle.
