In recent months, hundreds of international students have had their U.S. visas revoked, with many reportedly targeted due to involvement in pro-Palestinian activism.

For Queen’s University Belfast student Mr O’Reilly, the idea of being detained whilst in the U.S. is worrying. “It’s a very scary thing, especially as a student of history,” he added. As a politically active student focused on reproductive rights, Mr O’Reilly is now considering other study abroad options.

Emily Polland, a Queen’s student on a J1 visa in Washington DC, says the atmosphere has shifted since Trump’s presidency, making her hesitant to leave the U.S. over re-entry fears. Fellow student Cathal McStay believes the U.S. academic appeal is declining, citing fear among academics and a growing “brain drain.”

The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) had advised students heading to the U.S. on J1 visas this summer to be cautious about engaging in activism. Activities like peaceful protests, social media posts, joining advocacy groups, or displaying political symbols could put their visas at risk. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that student visas are for studying and would be revoked if they begin to engage in “destabilising” acts. Reports suggest over 1,000 international students have already faced visa revocations or status changes.

New York-based immigration lawyer Steven Heller says the recent handling of J1 visa holders marks a sharp shift from usual practice, with around 1,300 visas reportedly revoked. These occur often after interactions with U.S. law enforcement, including cases involving no charges or even victims of crime. He believes activism, particularly criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, has drawn unwanted attention to some students. Calling the situation “big brother-ish,” Heller advises caution, especially online. Tensions have escalated, with Trump threatening Harvard over its resistance to policy demands.