Many Indians living in the US are facing uncertain times as Green cards are being cancelled, work visas are under threat, and even students are being screened using AI technology to find reasons for deportation.
The US is now revoking international student visas, including those of many Indian students, for minor offences like shoplifting or speeding. Once a visa is cancelled, students are expected to leave the country within 15 days. But can they fight back? What options does the law give them?
These actions are part of the Trump administration’s stricter approach to immigration. Indian students, who now form the largest group of international students in the US, are being hit the hardest.
According to the Open Doors Report, the US hosted over 11.2 lakh international students in 2023-24. This group added $43.8 billion to the US economy and helped support nearly 3.8 lakh jobs. By November 2024, Indian students even outnumbered Chinese students for the first time.
The Trump administration has begun cancelling student visas, impacting many Indian students in US colleges. On April 4, Stanford reported six such cases, while Harvard confirmed three and Arizona State said around 50 students were affected.
Colleges are now advising students to carry immigration documents at all times. Experts say the revocations,often for minor infractions are unusual, as such actions are typically reserved for serious security threats.
Universities discovered many of these “silent” cancellations during routine checks. They’re now offering legal support to students and seeking explanations from federal agencies.
As of March 2024, more than 300 student visas have been cancelled. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called some politically active students “lunatics,” with many cancellations targeting students from universities seen as anti-Israel.
One high-profile case involved a Fulbright Scholar from Turkey, studying at Tufts University, who was detained after joining a pro-Palestinian protest. This raised concerns about students being targeted for political views, according to the BBC.
What can Indian students do legally?
As per the American Immigration Lawyers Association, students with terminated SEVIS records can apply for reinstatement through USCIS. However, the process is slow, rarely successful, and cannot be fast-tracked. Students must admit to violating visa rules and cannot work or intern during this time. Even if denied, immigration judges usually can’t review the decision, making this option risky and costly.
What happens if visa get cancelled
If a student’s visa is cancelled, they don’t have to leave the US right away. They can stay and go through legal proceedings to challenge the cancellation. During this time, they have the right to hire a lawyer (at their own expense) and fight the case. Leaving the US is seen as a last option.
Immigration expert Rajiv Khanna has advised Indian students to be careful, especially since two US executive orders have introduced AI-based social media checks for student visa holders (F-1, M-1, and J-1). Students should regularly check the email they used during their visa process for updates, keep records of their college enrolment and progress, and avoid international travel, as re-entering the US could lead to stricter checks.
Immigration expert Rajiv Khanna warns that reinstating a terminated SEVIS record is slow, uncertain, and often unsuccessful. During this time, students can’t work or train, and immigration judges can’t review denials.
The University of Massachusetts Chancellor urged colleges to better support international students. Khanna recommends institutions provide clear guidance, prepare for visa issues, and monitor for discriminatory practices.
In this tense climate, collective support from universities and legal experts is crucial. Indian students must stay informed and cautious.
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