Concern has been expressed about changes to the J1 visa programme for students.

Under new rules students will have to have been offered a job before going to the US in order to get into the country.

The minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan says the changes may prove challenging for many students and this could impact the numbers taking part in the programme.

Minister Flanagan says 

“I am concerned that meeting the requirements of the new rules may prove challenging for many students and this may in turn impact on the numbers of students participating in the programme. I raised the matter with very senior members of the US Administration during my visit to the US last month and I have in recent days also written to Secretary of State Kerry outlining my concerns. I have also been in contact with the US Ambassador in Dublin, Kevin O’Malley, on the matter and appreciate his helpful engagement on the issue.

He is to monitor the situation on an ongoing basis and will remain in contact with the US State Department and relevant bodies in the coming months