In a warning note posted on Tuesday, the United States Embassy in India gave a direct warning to Indian students pursuing studies in the US, asking them to strictly follow the conditions of their student visas or face severe repercussions, including visa cancellation and future disqualification.
The advisory, posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), outlines potential violations that could jeopardise a student’s legal status. “If you drop out, skip classes, or leave your program of study without informing your school, your student visa may be revoked, and you may lose eligibility for future U.S. visas,” the embassy stated. It further advised students to maintain their visa status and stay in close communication with their academic institutions to avoid immigration issues.
This message comes at a time of increased scrutiny of international students under the current US administration. Although not directly referenced, the announcement follows ongoing political debates in the US concerning foreign student enrollment and mass deportation measures pushed by President Donald Trump.
The embassy’s message isn’t an isolated alert. Earlier this month, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) issued a similar warning to students on Optional Practical Training (OPT) visas, a popular work route for international graduates.
ICE informed the students that they are required to update their employment information within 90 days from when their visa is activated. If not, they would be required to stop their status in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
Adding to the worry, a number of US universities have cautioned their foreign students against traveling outside the country unnecessarily, saying such travel might hinder re-entry or result in the cancellation of a visa at a time when there is a shifting immigration environment.
The recent releases remind us that remaining in legal status in the US is more than having a visa—it involves continuous compliance throughout the period of study and work authorisations. Indian students, one of the largest groups of foreign students pursuing education in the US, are being warned to stay vigilant and informed.
