Trump’s New Immigration Ban: Impact on International Students and Viable Alternatives

With President Donald Trump signing a new executive order, many students are wondering if their academic future in the U.S. is at risk. Learn the details with BAI Capital.

President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order imposing immigration restrictions on citizens from six Muslim-majority countries. Although this version aims to avoid the chaos caused by the original January order, it still raises concerns for international students planning to study in the U.S.

This article analyzes the key changes in the new order, its impact on F-1, J-1, and M-1 student visas, and a viable alternative for those seeking long-term security: the EB-5 Program, a pathway to a Green Card for students and their families.

Key Changes in the New Immigration Order

Compared to the original January version, this new order introduces key adjustments:

• Implementation period: Takes effect in 10 days, avoiding immediate airport chaos.
• Iraq removed from the list: Now affects only Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen.
• Does not affect permanent residents (Green Card holders).
• Removes the indefinite ban on Syrian citizens.
• No preferential treatment for religious minorities.

These changes reduce the number of directly affected individuals, but the perception of the U.S. as a welcoming destination remains at risk.

What Happens to International Students?

One of the main concerns among international students was whether their visas would be affected by this new immigration ban.

However, the Department of Homeland Security clarified that the order does not apply to students with valid F-1, J-1, or M-1 visas. This means international students can continue entering the U.S. without additional restrictions.

Additionally, those already in the country will not face deportation or changes to their immigration status due to this measure.

Despite this legal clarity, uncertainty remains an issue. Many students fear that future restrictions could impact their ability to travel, renew visas, or secure job opportunities after graduation.

This climate of instability, along with anti-immigration rhetoric in U.S. politics, is leading more students to consider alternatives in other countries.

The U.S. Is Losing Its Appeal as an Educational Destination

While the U.S. has historically been the top destination for international students, policies like this have negatively impacted its image.

Decline in Enrollment:

• In 2017, new international student enrollment fell by 6.6%, the first major decline in a decade.
• In 2020, a combination of immigration restrictions and the pandemic led to a 43% drop in new enrollments.
• Universities in Canada and Australia have reported an increase in international applications, suggesting that the U.S. is losing its competitive edge.

According to over 600 university presidents, anti-immigration rhetoric influences the decisions of thousands of students seeking stability and post-graduation job opportunities.

EB-5: The Secure Pathway for International Students

The EB-5 Program allows foreign investors and their families to obtain a Green Card through an investment in the U.S. For students, this represents an ideal solution because:

1. Avoids F-1 visa limitations: No need to rely on extensions or status changes.
2. Greater work freedom: Graduates don’t need H-1B sponsorship.
3. Unrestricted university access: No visa renewal concerns.

Comparison: EB-5 vs. Other Immigration Options

For students and families with resources, the EB-5 program offers security and stability, avoiding the uncertainty of temporary visas and immigration restrictions.

Although Trump’s new immigration order is less restrictive than the previous version, it still raises concerns about the future of immigration in the U.S. For international students, this uncertain climate makes exploring alternatives a priority.

The EB-5 Program emerges as one of the safest and most viable solutions for those wishing to study and work in the U.S. without restrictions. At a time when immigration policies can change rapidly, investing in a pathway to permanent residency ensures peace of mind and long-term opportunities.

Want to learn more about EB-5 and how to apply?

Discover Archer Place, an exclusive real estate development by BAI Capital, located in front of the University of Florida (UF) and in a TEA zone, qualifying for the program’s minimum investment of $800,000 and also offers a 4.9% annual return.

At BAI Capital, we are experts in the EB-5 process and can guide you step by step. Contact us and an agent will reach out to you shortly.