Indian students in the US face uncertainty amid visa revocations | Fusion - WeRIndia

Navigating education abroad is already challenging, but for many Indian students in the US, it has now turned into a legal and emotional crisis.

Recent policy shifts have put their academic futures at risk, with hundreds of visas suddenly revoked for minor reasons such as traffic violations or social media activity.

Over the last year, US authorities have intensified visa scrutiny. Although student visas like F-1, M-1, and J-1 are granted after extensive screening, revocations have surged.

Notably, over 300 student visas were cancelled by March 2024—many involving Indian students.

Several top universities, including Harvard and Arizona State, confirmed they were unaware of the federal decisions.

In fact, internal checks revealed “silent” cancellations of valid student visas. Students are now being advised to carry immigration documents at all times.

While these actions seem sudden, they reflect a broader trend. New executive orders have introduced AI-driven social media surveillance for visa applicants.

Consequently, even minor infractions have led to deportation notices. In most cases, affected students must leave within 15 days or face removal proceedings.

Although legal recourse exists, options remain limited. Requesting reinstatement through USCIS is time-consuming and rarely successful.

It bars students from working or interning, and immigration judges can’t overturn a denial. For many, self-deportation appears inevitable, though legal counsel can be sought to challenge such decisions.

Educational institutions are increasingly concerned. Leaders like the Chancellor of the University of Massachusetts have called for stronger institutional support systems.

Immigration experts urge universities to develop response plans, monitor enforcement trends, and educate students on staying compliant.

Despite contributing $43.8 billion to the US economy, international students now face a climate of fear and unpredictability.

Some immigration attorneys warn that students must stay alert, avoid risky travel, and maintain academic compliance to reduce exposure.

As policies evolve, Indian students must act with caution, seek support, and prepare for swift changes.

A collective response by legal experts and academic institutions could provide much-needed stability in these uncertain times.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Published on January 15, 2017

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/396467