US revokes F-1 visas of Indian students over minor offences
Some students claim their visa cancellations were based not just on criminal records but also on social media activity, particularly around pro-Palestinian views
Dozens of Indian students studying in the United States are being forced to leave after their F-1 student visas were revoked over minor offences like overspeeding, shoplifting, and alcohol-related incidents.
Designated School Officials (DSOs) have notified affected students that their Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) records are terminated — rendering their visa, Form I-20, and work authorisation invalid.
Even students who resolved their charges legally are not being spared. Many were urged to arrange immediate departure, raising alarm within the Indian student community.
Also read: US embassy cancels 2,000 visa appointments made by agents’ ‘bots’
What legal experts say
This wave of visa cancellations follows a broader immigration crackdown linked to Donald Trump-era enforcement policies.
International students across elite institutions like UC Berkeley, Stanford, and UCLA have reported sudden terminations.
Legal experts suggest this shift in approach — revoking visas for petty, non-violent offences — is unprecedented and legally questionable.
While student visa revocations are typically reserved for serious misconduct or academic failures, recent cases show a sharp deviation.
Scrutiny intensifies in Trump era
Legal consultants and immigration specialists have reported increased enquiries from concerned Indian students.
Lawyers are advising students whose offences occurred more than a year ago to seek immediate legal assistance.
Historically, minor infractions like speeding or first-time shoplifting rarely triggered deportation.
However, under policies from the Trump era that remain active, scrutiny has intensified.
Also Read: Explained: All about work, study and tourist visas that US offers to Indians
Legal experts are now advising students whose offences occurred more than a year ago to seek urgent counsel. Lawsuits have also emerged, alleging denial of due process.
Social media activity under scanner
Some students claim their visa cancellations were based not just on criminal records but also on social media activity, particularly around pro-Palestinian views.
New visa applicants are now also evaluated based on their social media activity. Students could be refused entry to the US if concerning information is found during these reviews.
This crackdown coincides with broader immigration enforcement trends and may deter international students from choosing US universities in the future.
India is reportedly the second-largest contributor of international students in the US. With reportedly 3.32 lakh Indians enrolled during the 2023–24 academic year, the impact is widespread.
Education consultants warn that the uncertainty around F-1 student visas could undermine the academic and career aspirations of thousands of Indian students, who now face life-altering consequences for even settled legal issues.
Also read: H-1B, L-1 visa spouses: US extends work permits by up to 540 days
