As Donald Trump returned to power, international students in the United States are finding themselves under increased immigration scrutiny. Stricter enforcement measures, particularly targeting non-immigrant visa holders, may now result in the swift cancellation of student visas if certain regulations are breached.
The US government issues F-1 visas to students enrolled in traditional academic programmes and M-1 visas to those pursuing vocational studies. However, violating the terms of these visas can result in their termination, potentially forcing students to leave the country immediately.
Students are only permitted to enter the US a maximum of 30 days before their course begins and must report their arrival to their designated school official (DSO). Any requests for programme extensions or changes to academic status must also be routed through the DSO. Failure to do so can jeopardise their legal status.
Employment is another sensitive area. F-1 students may only work under certain conditions and with proper authorisation from the DSO or US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Working without permission is a serious violation and may result in deportation and a bar from re-entry.
Upon completing their studies, F-1 visa holders are granted a 60-day grace period to leave the country, while M-1 students have just 30 days.
Visa revocations can be initiated either by the US State Department or a consular officer, often based on security concerns, criminal or medical grounds, or suspicion of ineligibility. Specific offences such as drunk driving (DUI/DWI), providing false documentation, overstaying, or failing to maintain academic standards may also trigger revocation.
Furthermore, dropping out without notifying the DSO, facing financial hardship without prior arrangements, or participating in protests can lead to visa withdrawal. Even minor infractions, including traffic violations or failing to update address details, may attract unwanted attention from immigration authorities.
In this changing political landscape, international students are urged to stay informed, follow regulations meticulously, and maintain regular communication with their DSO to safeguard their educational journey in the US.
