President Trump signed an executive order Friday that will impact visa processing abroad for international students and scholars, and will also impact some faculty, staff, and students traveling abroad. In sum, the following directives have been issued:

For all international students and scholars:

• Visa interview waiver program: the U.S. has suspended the visa interview waiver program. This means that if you will be traveling outside of the U.S. and need to apply for a new visa to return, you should allow plenty of time for visa processing as interview wait times are expected to increase significantly. You can review the appointment and processing times at the Department of State’s website.

For citizens of Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen:

• Ban on Entry to the U.S.: the executive order bans entry for at least 90 days for nationals from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen.  If you are from one of these countries, you can stay in the U.S. provided you maintain your current visa status. 

• Travel outside the U.S.: We strongly recommend that citizens of these seven countries not travel to any country outside of the U.S. at this time. If you do, you may not be able to reenter the country. 

A federal judge's order temporarily blocked deportations nationwide late Saturday of those detained on entry to the United States following the executive order. 

The University of Iowa has long recognized that a diverse and inclusive community is the foundation of a strong education. Each of you, regardless of your background or country of origin, are welcome in our community. You bring perspectives and experiences that, taken together, enrich the educational experience and prepare UI students to thrive in their lives and careers. 

The latest information on the impact of the executive order can be found on the International Programs website: https://international.uiowa.edu/us-presidential-executive-orders-and-international-students-and-scholars

Downing A. Thomas

Associate Provost and Dean

International Programs