Dozens of Utah International Students Have Visas Reinstated After DOJ Reversal

Salt Lake City, April 27, 2025 In a major relief for international students across Utah, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has reversed visa cancellations for dozens of students affected by recent federal immigration actions. This policy shift follows nationwide backlash and legal challenges to the Trump-era decision that had put thousands of students at risk of deportation.

Federal Reversal Brings Hope to Utah’s International Community

According to the Salt Lake Tribune, nearly 50 students enrolled in various Utah colleges and universities were impacted by visa revocations issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in recent weeks. However, during a court hearing on Friday, DOJ attorneys confirmed that no additional visa cancellations would proceed until a new system is developed. This decision is part of a broader rollback affecting student visas nationwide.

The visa reinstatements come after universities, advocacy groups, and students mounted legal resistance and public outcry over the mass cancellations, offering renewed hope to many facing uncertainty about their academic futures in the U.S.

University of Utah Among the Most Affected Institutions

The University of Utah, the state’s largest and oldest public university, experienced the most significant impact. As per reports, at least 22 international students from the university were initially affected. By Friday, 12 students had successfully had their visas reinstated. University officials stated they are continuing outreach efforts to communicate with affected students and provide necessary support services.

Other institutions hit by visa revocations include Southern Utah University (SUU) and Utah Tech University, with each reporting about 10 impacted students. SUU confirmed that three students have had their visa statuses restored so far, and university officials emphasized ongoing efforts to support all affected individuals.

Broader Statewide Impact and Responses

Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) reported three international students impacted, with one student leaving the United States prior to the policy reversal. Two others are continuing their education after filing for reinstatement. Similarly, Weber State University in Ogden confirmed five affected students, three of whom had their visas reinstated by the end of the week.

Meanwhile, Westminster University, a private institution in Salt Lake City, reported no visa cancellations among its international student body of 35 students.

University leaders across Utah have welcomed the DOJ’s decision, focusing on maintaining clear communication channels and offering legal and emotional support to their international student communities.

Nationwide Shift Reflects Growing Scrutiny of Immigration Policies

This reversal signals a significant shift in the federal approach to international student visas, especially after earlier moves by the Trump administration threatened to terminate more than 1,500 visas nationwide. Legal experts and civil rights organizations have praised the decision but warn that lasting damage to America’s reputation as a destination for global education may persist.

As universities nationwide adjust their support systems, the latest developments highlight the critical need for transparency, fairness, and protections for students contributing academically, culturally, and economically to the United States.