POLITICS: Swiss Muslim prof to try again for US visa

SOUTH BEND -- Swiss Muslim scholar Tariq Ramadan plans to reapply for a work visa in hopes of beginning his teaching position at the University of Notre Dame.

Ramadan had been scheduled to move to South Bend in August to begin a job as a tenured professor of religion, conflict and peace-building at Notre Dame. However, his work visa was revoked in late July by the U.S. State Department at the recommendation of the Homeland Security Department. Homeland Security officials have declined to specify why Ramadan is considered a risk.

Asked about the scholar's status, Notre Dame spokesman Matthew Storin said Thursday that Ramadan has decided to reapply for a visa through the American consulate in Switzerland.

"Because the State Department has said on a number of occasions they believe Ramadan should reapply for his visa, he is in the process of doing that," Storin said.

The application process generally takes about two months, Storin said.

Copyright: South Bend Tribune