Sharp Drop in U.S. Student Visas for Japanese Nationals Raises Concerns

The U.S. Department of State released data indicating a 40 percent decrease in May in the number of U.S. student visas issued to Japanese citizens compared to previous years. These visas, known as F-1 visas, are for students studying abroad in the United States. The decline appears to be linked to tightened restrictions on foreign students.

As many U.S. schools begin their academic year in September, the issuance of F-1 visas typically peaks between May and August. Data compiled by The Asahi Shimbun revealed that approximately 520 F-1 visas were granted to Japanese nationals in May. In contrast, around 900 visas were issued in May of 2022, 2023, and 2024, before the pandemic. This year's figure represents the lowest number of F-1 visas issued since 2017, excluding the period from 2020 to 2021 when pandemic measures were in place.

One prospective doctoral student in the Kyushu region described his struggle to secure a visa interview appointment. He checks a website frequently, hoping to find an available slot, but only sees the message "No available slots." He is concerned about starting his doctoral program in August.

U.S. media reported that the Trump administration ordered embassies and consulates worldwide to temporarily suspend visa interview appointments at the end of May. Japanese embassies also stopped taking appointments around the same time. Although the Department of State announced in mid-June that appointments would resume, many are still unable to schedule them.

The prospective Ph.D. student is limited in his options, as the United States is the only country where he can conduct his desired research across multiple disciplines. He has also received financial support from the university. He hopes to secure an interview soon, but uncertainty remains about what will happen after he arrives in the United States.

While the overall number of F-1 visas issued in May remained consistent with previous years, the decrease in visas issued to Japanese nationals is unexplained. The U.S. Embassy in Tokyo cited the protection of personal information and internal operations when declining to comment on the reason for the decline.

Ryugaku Journal Inc., a study abroad facilitator, noted widespread concern among Japanese citizens regarding the Trump administration's policies. The 40 percent decrease may not be a direct result of the policy, but rather Japanese students reconsidering their plans to study in the United States or choosing other countries.

The Department of State announced in mid-June that it would resume interviews after screening prospective students, including their social media activity. A representative from Ryugaku Journal stated that more Japanese students are choosing Australia and Britain or abandoning their study abroad plans altogether.