America’s immigration policy is changing fast and furiously. The Trump administration is cracking down hard on unauthorized and illegal immigrants living in America. The US government is working tirelessly to deport illegal foreigners and revoke visas for those with a history of legal problems. Anyone who threatens the country is getting expelled from the United States.

In some cases, student visas have been revoked while in many other cases, Green Card holders have been forced to give up their entitlements. The situation is worrisome for all immigrants in America and it’s getting worse by the day.

Should Students Worry?

US can revoke student visas but this should not be a concern for all students. Internationals students are still welcome in America to pursue their education and careers. So, who is at risk? “The Trump administration has primarily focused on curbing illegal immigration rather than targeting legally residing students.

The F-1 visa is meant for lawful study, and students who follow visa regulations would not face revocation issues. Historically, there have been no mass revocations or deportations of students solely based on their visa status. However, violations such as unauthorized employment, failing to maintain full-time enrollment, or criminal activity could lead to revocation,” says Abhijit Zaveri, Founder and Director, Career Mosaic.

“Student visas can be revoked for breaking visa rules, committing crimes, or if the government believes the student is a security risk. Even social media activity and records are being scrutinized,” says Sanjog Anand, Co-Founder of Rostrum Education

The scenario becomes more precarious for the students who are not in America. “Students outside the US should maintain contact with their universities and follow official updates on visa and travel policies. It is strongly recommended that students verify the validity of their I-20 forms and visa statuses while also reaching out for guidance from their university’s international student office. They are strongly encouraged to plan and stay informed for a smooth return whenever the time arises, suggests Sanjay Laul, Founder, MSM Group.

Legal help is available to students if revocation orders are given against them. “In such cases, students should immediately seek assistance from their university’s designated school official (DSO) to understand their options. They can also consult an immigration lawyer to understand and take legal steps to avoid it,” says Piyush Kumar – Regional Director, South Asia, Canada and Latin America (LATAM), IDP Education.

“Appeals, visa reinstatement, or status change requests can provide possible solutions. Additionally, embassies can offer guidance on legal rights and assist with necessary documentation. Acting swiftly and consulting professionals increases the chances of a positive resolution, says Sripal Jain, Co-founder, Simandhar Education-CA, CPA (USA).

US Green Card Holders

The Trump administration has shifted its focus to US Green Card holders while maintaining its deportation drive against undocumented and illegal immigrants. In a recent interview with Fox News, US Vice President JD Vance emphasized green card holders’ privileges, emphasizing that they do not have an indefinite right to remain in the United States.

Green card holders in the US are granted permanent residency rights but must avoid crimes or violations that could render them deportable under immigration law, requiring them to fulfill certain responsibilities.

” Green card holders, or lawful permanent residents, generally cannot be forced to give up their status unless they voluntarily abandon it, commit serious crimes, or fail to meet residency requirements. Maintaining a valid re-entry permit and staying compliant with U.S. laws helps protect their status,” says Zaveri.

For a Green Card not spending adequate time in America could become a ground for its revocation. “Green card holders have legal protections, but their status can be revoked if they fail to meet residency requirements, stay outside the U.S. for extended periods without proper authorization, or engage in unlawful activities,” says Jain.

What to do now

Avoid traveling to the US or flying out of America unless necessary. All industry experts are advising their clients not to travel to America until things settle. “Right now, it’s best to avoid unnecessary travel if you’re on a visa or green card. Even routine re-entry is becoming tricky, and people are getting stopped at airports for extra questioning. Universities like Brown have issued advisories on this,” says Anand.

Also, US immigration attorneys are advising immigrants, including international students, green card holders, and H-1B visa holders, to avoid traveling outside the country.

Here’s what Aritra Ghoshal, Founder & Director, OneStep Global says to alleviate the fears among students and Green Card holders.

“It is also important to note that the U.S. The Secretary of State has announced intentions to revoke student visas in cases involving individuals deemed to be security risks or engaged in activities contrary to U.S. policy. This indicates a broader enforcement strategy but is likely to affect only a small number of students in specific circumstances. In these uncertain times, international students and green card holders must exercise caution, remain informed about policy changes, and seek legal counsel when necessary to safeguard their educational and residency statuses in the United States.”

Also Read: US Department of Labor begins deletion of H-1B Visa records

Summing Up

America remains the first choice for foreign students including Indians. The Open Doors 2024 Report on International Educational Exchange reported that the total number of international students at U.S. colleges and universities reached an all-time high of more than 1.1 million (1,126,690) international students in 2023/2024, a 7% increase from the previous academic year.

India sent 331,602 international students to the US in 2023-2024, a 23% increase from the previous year, marking the first time since 2009 that India has sent more students than China.

According to University Living’s Indian Student Mobility Report 2023-24, an anticipated 300,000 Indian students will embark on this journey by 2025, investing a projected USD 17.4 billion.

Will the recent action on the immigration front deter Indian students from opting for America as a study destination, remains to be seen.