Indian Student Visa Holders Who Have Classes From August 1 Can Enter US

The US embassy in India announced that student visa holders are now permitted to enter the country if their classes will commence on August 1.

On Tuesday, the US embassy tweeted the following statement: “Under the current Presidential Proclamation, student visa holders are able to enter the United States if their classes start on or after August 1, 2021. We are unfortunately unable to approve exceptions for F visa holders with a program start date before August 1, 2021. If your start date is before August 1, we urge you to contact your respective educational institutions to discuss options.”

Under the current Presidential Proclamation, student visa holders are able to enter the United States if their classes start on or after August 1, 2021. We are unfortunately unable to approve exceptions for F visa holders with a program start date before August 1, 2021.

— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) May 4, 2021

United States President Joe Biden had suspended the entry of nonimmigrant travellers

Earlier on April 30, US president Joe Biden signed a proclamation for suspending the entry of nonimmigrant travellers who might have been present in India from Tuesday (May 4) at 9.30 am (IST). However, exceptions have been made in the case of immigrants, US citizens, lawful permanent residents (LPR), foreign diplomats, and certain family members of US citizens. An exception has also been made for sea and aircrew travelling to the United States on C, D, or C1/D visas.

If your start date is before August 1, we urge you to contact your respective educational institutions to discuss options. More information here: https://t.co/Vki6UFd836

— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) May 4, 2021

The April 30 Presidential Proclamation suspending most nonimmigrant travel to the U.S. by individuals physically present in India is now in effect. It does not apply to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, immigrant visa holders, or select other categories of travelers. 1/2

— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) May 4, 2021

US embassy states that students with valid F-1 and M-1 visas can commence their academic program from August 1

The US embassy has also stated that students with valid F-1 and M-1 visas who are intending to begin their academic program from August 1, 2021, or later won't have to contact the embassy or consulate to seek an individual National Interest Exception to travel.

However, students seeking to apply for new F-1 or M-1 visas will have to check the status of visa services at the nearest embassy. Those who have otherwise qualified for either visa will be considered for a national interest exception to travel.