Archive · 25 Aug 2026
Senators Urge State Department to End Student Visa Delays
Thirty US senators are worried that students from other countries cannot get visa appointments quickly enough.
These visas are needed for academic, vocational and exchange programs in the United States.
The senators say delays could stop some students from arriving before classes start.
They asked the State Department to give student applications higher priority.
They also want interview waivers for some returning students and more staff to process applications.
The senators say international students help universities, communities and American workers.
They believe these students also help countries build stronger relationships.
The State Department was asked to provide written answers within 30 days.
Thirty US senators urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to address delays affecting F, M and J visas.
The lawmakers said limited appointment availability could prevent students and scholars from reaching the United States before the academic year.
They requested priority processing, broader interview waivers for vetted returning students, adequate staffing and clearer information.
The senators said international students contribute nearly $43 billion annually and supported more than 355,000 US jobs in 2024-2025.
They asked the State Department to explain its resources, processing priorities and appointment allocation within 30 days.
- Who
- Thirty US senators, led by independent Senator Angus King, urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to act.
- What
- They called for faster processing and more appointment availability for F, M and J student and exchange visitor visas.
- When
- The request was made during the peak visa application season ahead of the new academic year; a written response was requested within 30 days.
- Where
- The delays were reported at several US embassies and consulates, affecting travel to the United States.
- Why
- The senators said delays could prevent students from starting classes and harm universities, local economies, jobs and international relationships.
- Senators involved
- 30
- Visa categories
- F, M and J
- Annual economic contribution
- Nearly $43 billion to local communities
- US jobs supported
- More than 355,000 during the 2024-2025 academic year
- Share of higher-education population
- About 6% of US higher-education students
- Requested response
- Written response from the State Department within 30 days
- Lead senator
- Angus King of Maine