Why the U.S. Revokes F-1 Visas of Hundreds of International Students?

A sudden crackdown by the U.S. Department of State has left hundreds of international students reeling, with their F-1 student visas revoked. The move, citing involvement in campus activism and online activity deemed “anti-national,” has sent shockwaves through the academic community.

Targeting Campus Activism and Online Expression

The sweeping action, spearheaded by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, goes beyond physical participation in protests. Students are being targeted for simply sharing or liking social media posts critical of U.S. policies. This has raised serious concerns about freedom of expression within U.S. borders.

Indian Students Among Those Affected

Reports indicate that Indian students, a significant portion of the over 1.1 million international students in the U.S. for the 2023-24 academic year, are among those impacted. This development creates uncertainty for many Indian students planning to study in the US.

AI-Powered App “Catch and Revoke” Amplifies Scrutiny

The State Department has deployed an AI-powered app, “Catch and Revoke,” to detect and cancel visas of students supporting designated terrorist organizations like Hamas. This, combined with heightened scrutiny of new F, M, and J visa applications, has created a climate of fear and uncertainty.

Mandatory Self-Deportation via CBP Home App

Affected students have received emails from the Bureau of Consular Affairs Visa Office informing them of revocations under Section 221(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The email dictates mandatory self-deportation using the CBP Home App, a tool launched by the Trump administration.

Severe Consequences for Non-Compliance

Students are warned that remaining in the U.S. without legal status could lead to fines, detention, or deportation. The notice further warns that deportation may be abrupt, potentially to countries other than their homeland, and could result in a ban on future U.S. visas.

Physical Visa Cancellation Required

Departing students are instructed to present their passports to the issuing U.S. embassy or consulate for physical visa cancellation. This process emphasizes that future travel to the U.S. will require a new visa application, with no guarantee of approval.

“Visa is Not a Birthright,” Says Secretary Rubio

Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated that a U.S. visa is “not a birthright,” emphasizing that any violation of visa terms will result in expulsion from the country.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement Involved

The Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), overseeing the Student Exchange Visitor Program, has been alerted to manage removal proceedings and may notify affected students’ schools.

Traveler Insights

• For parents: Stay in close communication with your children studying in the U.S. and be aware of their online activities.

• For current international students: Stay informed about U.S. policy changes and ensure your online activity aligns with visa regulations.

• For prospective students: Exercise caution when expressing political opinions online and be prepared for increased scrutiny during the visa application process.

For more updates on student visas and immigration policies, stay tuned to our latest travel news.