International Students and Scholars:  Visa Delays

Many international students and scholars are experiencing delays in obtaining visas for initial entry or to return to the US following visits abroad.  ISSP staff members are currently aware of three scholars, two in China and one in India, who are waiting for security clearances.  I have provided their names and other information to Emory’s Office of Governmental Affairs and asked the staff to help advocate for faster clearances with their congressional and Department of State contacts. 

If you are experiencing a delay or know of students or scholars who are experiencing delays, please contact me or other ISSP staff member with your name or the names of the students or scholars and any additional information that you have regarding the situation.  I will add the names to the Office of Governmental Affairs list.  I am also reporting the number of delays and consulates involved to NAFSA: Association of International Educators for their advocacy efforts on behalf of colleges and universities with the Department of State.

The delays in issuing visas are caused by the necessity of the US consul to obtain a security advisory opinion from the Department of State as required by section 221g of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), otherwise known as the Technology Alert List (TAL) or Visa Mantis security check.  Currently these checks are taking upwards of four months to a year to complete causing US students, scientists, and other professionals to be stranded for extended periods of time leading to significant humanitarian and professional losses to their families and employers, respectively, in the US. 

You may recall that several years ago, we were faced with a similar situation.  After much advocacy, security clearances were obtained and visas issued in a timelier manner.  However, delays have become a serious problem again.

As you are well aware, international students and scholars are very important to Emory’s teaching and research agenda.  In an era in which virtually any major scientific research project is conducted by multinational teams, and in which the United States does not produce as many scientists as it needs, our nation’s competitive edge depends fundamentally on the ability to attract and retain the world’s top scientists for our universities and research facilities. Yet, foreign students, scientists, and other professionals continue to experience obstacles to teaching and conducting research in the United States. 

Lelia Crawford, Director
International Student and Scholar Programs