The Trump administration has reversed course and begun reinstating visas for hundreds of international students whose legal status was abruptly terminated, government officials confirmed. The move comes after more than 100 lawsuits were filed by students who faced potential deportation when their study rights were suddenly revoked.

During a federal court hearing, Justice Department attorney Elizabeth Kurlan revealed immigration authorities are developing a new system for reviewing student visa terminations. An estimated 1,800 students from 280 universities were affected, many of whom had participated in political protests or had minor criminal infractions like traffic violations. The administration had previously defended the policy, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating visas would be terminated for those deemed contrary to U.S. interests.

While officials are now restoring records in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), ICE retains authority to cancel visas for other violations. “If a student fails to maintain status or engages in unlawful activity, they remain removable,” Kurlan told a California court. Immigration advocates welcomed the reprieve but warned the underlying policy remains unchanged. Columbia Law School’s Elora Mukherjee noted many students still face uncertainty despite the reinstatements.

The abrupt terminations had caused panic across U.S. campuses, with some students leaving voluntarily rather than risk detention. Attorneys reported seeing client records restored in recent days but emphasized the legal challenges continue. The administration has not commented on whether the policy will be revised long-term.