The United States Government has instructed its embassies and consulates worldwide to restart processing student and exchange visitor visas for individuals planning to study or conduct research at Harvard University.

The move comes after a federal court struck down a previous visa restriction policy that had barred certain applicants.

It stated “Effective immediately, consular sections must resume processing of Harvard University student and exchange visitor visas,” and further instructed that “no such applications should be refused” based on the previously issued presidential proclamation.

This follows a temporary restraining order issued by US District Judge Allison Burroughs, blocking the Trump administration’s latest effort to restrict international students from entering the US to attend Harvard University.

The ongoing legal battle between Harvard and the Trump administration over international student visa restrictions continues, with a significant hearing scheduled for next week.

Harvard had previously reported to Judge Burroughs that visa applicants faced delays and denials, underscoring the case’s urgency.

A diplomatic cable, signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, confirmed that visa processing would return to “standard processing” in compliance with the TRO, ensuring international students that their visa applications are not subject to the prior presidential proclamation’s restrictions.