Indian Students Face Visa Revocations Amid US Crackdown: Lawyers Report 50% Affected
Recent US immigration policies have led to the revocation of over 1,000 international student visas, with Indian students comprising approximately 50% of those affected. Legal experts and advocacy groups raise concerns over due process and the impact on students' futures.
Indian Students Face Visa Revocations Amid US Crackdown: Lawyers Report 50% Affected
In a significant development affecting international education, legal experts report that approximately 50% of the over 1,000 recent student visa revocations in the United States involve Indian nationals. This surge in visa cancellations has raised alarms among students, educational institutions, and legal advocacy groups.
Background of the Crackdown
Since late March 2025, the U.S. government has intensified scrutiny of international students, leading to abrupt visa revocations. According to an Associated Press review, more than 1,000 students across 160 educational institutions have been affected, with many receiving little to no prior notice. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has not provided detailed explanations for these actions.
Indian Students Disproportionately Affected
Legal professionals indicate that Indian students constitute about half of the affected population. Many of these students were pursuing advanced degrees and were on the cusp of graduation. The sudden revocations have disrupted their academic and career trajectories, leaving them in a state of uncertainty.
Reasons Behind Visa Revocations
While the DHS cites national security concerns, including alleged involvement in activities like pro-Palestinian protests, many students report being targeted for minor infractions. Incidents such as unpaid traffic fines or administrative errors have led to visa cancellations, a departure from previous protocols where educational institutions played a role in such decisions.
Legal and Institutional Responses
In response to these developments, several lawsuits have been filed challenging the legality of the visa revocations. Federal judges in multiple states have issued temporary restraining orders to halt deportations and restore students' statuses. Advocacy groups argue that the DHS failed to provide mandatory notifications and due process, violating students' legal rights.
Impact on Educational Institutions
Universities and colleges express concern over the implications of these actions. The unpredictability of visa statuses affects not only the students but also the institutions' planning and financial stability. There is apprehension that such measures could deter prospective international students from choosing the U.S. as their study destination.
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