Harvard issues travel warning for international students: Here’s what you need to know

Harvard University has posted a travel warning to its international students, particularly those from Iran and China, alerting them of the possibility of issues coming into the United States via Boston Logan International Airport. Here's why it affects students and why it is important:

Why the warning?

• Increased Vigilance: Iranian and Chinese students, especially those handling sensitive topics such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), or artificial intelligence (AI), have come under added questioning and even been held by U.S. Customs agents at Boston Logan airport.
• No Entry Promise: Harvard maintains that it cannot promise that students from these nations will be admitted to the U.S. if they attempt to do so through Boston Logan.

What is Harvard advising?

• Other airports: Harvard advises international students to arrive at other major airports—like John F. Kennedy (JFK) in New York, O'Hare (ORD) in Chicago, or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)—where there have been fewer problems for students.
• Documents prepared: Have all the legal documents ready, like the I-20 form, approval notice for the visa, and all communication from the university.
• Don't wipe devices: American border officials can search phones, computers, and social media. Harvard advises students to not wipe or reset their devices prior to traveling, as this will only raise more suspicions when arriving at the border.

Why is this happening

• Stricter immigration policies: The U.S. government increasingly tracks foreign students, particularly under national security and cutting-edge technology considerations. Foreign students and researchers have been detained or interrogated at U.S. airports in instances in the not-so-distant past.
• Political strains: The advisory coincides with increasing political and legal pressures on foreign students and academic research, particularly from nations such as Iran and China.

What can the Students do?

• Be prepared: Pick your airport carefully, keep all your documents sorted out, and be prepared for potential inquiries at the border.
• Stay aware: Remain connected with your university's immigration and legal aid services in order to get the latest news.

Bottom line

Harvard's travel advisory is a warning to save foreign students from trouble at U.S. points of entry. Planning ahead and taking the advice can help students avoid delays or issues in starting studies in America.