The US government is restoring legal status for hundreds of international students after lawsuits challenged sudden visa terminations. The move was announced during court hearings in California and Washington. ICE is developing a new policy for handling Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) records.

Students had their status revoked for minor infractions, causing fear and job losses. Temporary restraining orders protect affected students for now. Over 1,400 students were impacted, mainly from India and China. Judges criticized the administration’s ad hoc approach. While students feel relief, many fear that lasting harm to their records could still affect future visas and employment opportunities.