In a concerning development for Indian students studying abroad, over 50% of the visas of international students in the United States have been canceled, with Indians accounting for a significant portion. According to a recent report by the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), 327 international students have had their visas canceled, and about 50% of them are Indian nationals.

Details of the Visa Cancellations

As reported, many students are facing challenges due to minor interactions with the police. These interactions, though seemingly insignificant, have led to the termination of their SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) records, thus invalidating their student visas. The violations include:

• Speeding tickets

• Driving without a license

• Drunk driving

• Forgetting to scan items at stores

• Underage drinking

OPT Students Most Affected

The majority of these students were on Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows students to work in the U.S. for a limited time after graduation. According to AILA, nearly 50% of those affected were on OPT, particularly those pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) majors, which have the potential for a 24-month extension.

The OPT program had 97,556 Indian students in the year 2023-24, constituting 29% of the total Indian student population in the U.S.

The Implications of SEVIS Record Expungement

When a student’s SEVIS record is expunged, it can lead to serious consequences. The affected student will lose their F or M visa status, making them ineligible to work, return to the U.S., or even be monitored by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.

Concerns and Uncertainty

The cancellation of visas has created fear and uncertainty among the student community. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh expressed concern on social media, urging Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar to intervene and clarify the reasons behind the cancellations, which have left many students in a state of confusion and distress.

While the Indian Embassy and Consulates in the U.S. are offering assistance, the lack of clarity surrounding the visa cancellations has raised questions. 87% of affected Indian students reported some interaction with the police, but many were not officially informed about the reasons for their visa cancellations.