Spain has announced fast-tracked access to its universities for international students who are unable to pursue their education in the United States due to visa restrictions imposed under the Trump administration.
According to a statement by Spain’s Migration Ministry on Tuesday, students affected by the U.S. visa suspensions will now have the option to continue their education in Spanish institutions. The newly issued visas will also allow students to work part-time while studying.
The decision comes as former U.S. President Donald Trump intensifies his criticism of leading American universities, accusing them of fostering antisemitism amid growing student protests in support of Palestinian rights during the ongoing Gaza conflict. In one high-profile move, Trump took action against Harvard University, freezing investigative funds and threatening its tax-exempt status.
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In response, several European countries, including Spain, have begun expanding research support to attract displaced academic talent. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has positioned the move as part of a broader strategy to promote immigration for its positive impact on the national economy.
Spain has already emerged as a popular destination for American students, ranking third after the United Kingdom and Italy. According to the Open Doors platform, over 20,000 U.S.-based students apply annually to spend part of their academic journey in Spain.