US student visa numbers plummet for Chinese citizens: Think tank cites 'anti-espionage' measures, angering Beijing

A report by the US-based Center for Immigration Studies (CIS) has sparked strong reactions in China, claiming a significant decrease in student visas issued to Chinese citizens. The analysis of US State Department data indicates a 46% drop in F-1 student visas for Chinese nationals compared to previous averages, and a 60% decrease for Indian citizens. The report suggests this trend could "greatly benefit American students and national security."

“

This decline, if it continues, could greatly benefit American students and national security.

The CIS report argues that reducing the number of Chinese students in US higher education institutions can lower the risks associated with technology transfer and espionage. It specifically states that fewer Chinese students would "reduce the overall level of campus espionage and technology theft, and help maintain U.S. national security."

Chinese state media, including the nationalist Global Times, has pushed back against the report, labeling it as "rehashing old news" and politically motivated. The commentary asserts that the decline in visas is not due to the discovery of "spies" among students but is a result of US political maneuvers, including interview suspensions, social media scrutiny, and calls for "increased scrutiny" of students from specific countries.

“

Reducing the number of Chinese students coming to U.S. colleges and universities will reduce the overall level of campus espionage and technology theft, and help maintain U.S. national security.

The report compared visa issuances between May and August 2025 with averages from 2017-2019 and 2021-2024, excluding 2020 due to the pandemic. The CIS found 40,034 F-1 visas issued to Chinese citizens in the specified period, down from an average of 73,853. For Indian citizens, the number was 22,149, compared to an average of 55,717.

“

The report failed to provide evidence of how overseas students threaten U.S. security.

Chinese students have historically been the largest group of foreign students in the US, but their numbers have declined amid deteriorating bilateral relations, visa uncertainties, and increased scrutiny of Chinese researchers. The US has also implemented new regulations, including limiting the duration of stay for international students to a fixed term based on their academic program, with a reduced grace period after completion of studies. Reports also suggest a potential $100,000 fee for those seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) work permits.

“

The sharp decline in visas issued to Chinese students is not because any 'spies' have been found among them. On the contrary, it is the direct result of a series of political operations by the US side.