August 27, 2007

Kuwait City, Kuwait
August 28, 2007

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Kuwaiti Students Welcome in the United States

 

            American colleges and universities are eager to have foreign students enrich their campuses, and Kuwaiti students are most welcome in the United States.  The high quality of U.S. educational institutions and the life-changing experience of living in another culture give such students a competitive edge and more confidence in life.  Encouraging Kuwaitis to pursue degree or summer study programs in the U.S. enhances mutual understanding and forges closer ties between the American and Kuwaiti peoples. The U.S. Department of State and the American Embassy are committed to facilitating visas for foreign students and ensuring their safety once they reach the U.S.

 

            Recent press reports – citing unnamed sources – about seven unidentified Kuwaiti students who were denied entry to the United States are inaccurate and misleading.  Of the 744 student visas issued to Kuwaitis so far this year, our records indicate that only three were subsequently revoked.  Moreover, it is U.S. policy to provide timely notification of any such revocation before departure from Kuwait – not upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry.  Without details of the allegations in the media, the Embassy cannot comment on those alleged specific cases. 

 

U.S. law prohibits entry to the United States by foreign nationals with certain criminal records, who belong to or are associated with terrorist groups, or whose words or actions indicate support for terrorist activities.  These are among the reasons why a U.S. visa, once issued, could be revoked.  The U.S. Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security implement America’s “Open Doors, Secure Borders” policy, which aims to ensure security while facilitating entry to the U.S. for legitimate visitors and new residents.  The Departments of State and Homeland Security continue to enforce this law vigorously in order to ensure the safety of American citizens and foreign visitors, including students, present in the U.S.  

 

            When considering study options, Kuwaiti students, parents and education professionals should take into account the unique positive benefits that an education in the United States offers.  U.S. visa and entry procedures are designed to facilitate legitimate travelers and ease their entry to the United States.  At more than 94 percent, Kuwaitis have one of the highest U.S. visa approval rates of any nationality.  Kuwaiti students will find themselves welcome both at the border and throughout their stay in America.

           

            Information on how to apply for a student visa to the U.S. as well as links to information on American educational opportunities can be found on the Embassy’s website at http://kuwait.usembassy.gov.

 

 

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