US Student Visas Plummet for Indian, Chinese Nationals Under New Policy

The U.S. issued 60% fewer F-1 visas to Indian nationals and 46% fewer to Chinese nationals compared with the previous year, according to government data. The sharp decline follows the introduction of four-year visa caps and a reduction in the post-graduation grace period from 60 days to 30 days.

The tighter rules apply to all F-1 applicants, but the impact is most pronounced for students from India and China, who together account for more than half of all international students in the United States. Immigration attorneys say the changes add uncertainty for families planning long-term study, particularly those pursuing multiple degrees or internships.

In response, many students are shifting their applications to European countries with more predictable visa processes. Germany, France, and the Netherlands have seen increased inquiries from Indian and Chinese applicants, according to education consultants. These countries offer lower tuition fees and clearer post-study work pathways, which have become more attractive as U.S. policies tighten.

The U.S. State Department has defended the changes as necessary to prevent visa overstays and protect national security. But university admissions officers warn that the decline could reduce the diversity of American campuses and weaken the country's competitive edge in attracting global talent.

For students like Priya Sharma, a 22-year-old from Mumbai who had planned to pursue a master's degree in computer science in the United States, the new rules changed her plans. She now attends a technical university in Berlin, where she says the application process was straightforward and the visa was granted within weeks.