In a deeply concerning development for Indian students in the United States, dozens have been ordered to self-deport after their F-1 student visas were abruptly revoked due to minor legal infractions—many of which had already been resolved through legal channels.
This wave of action, affecting universities in Missouri, Texas, and Nebraska, follows earlier reports of students being targeted for alleged campus activism. Now, visa cancellations are reportedly tied to offences like overspeeding, shoplifting, and alcohol-related incidents.
Emails sent by Designated School Officials (DSOs) have notified students that their SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) records have been terminated, effectively rendering their F-1 visas, I-20 forms, and legal stay in the US invalid.
“If your visa has been revoked, this means that the F-1 visa in your passport is no longer valid. If you are in the US, you may need to make plans for immediate departure,” one such email read.
Infractions: Resolved, Yet Repercussive
Many affected students say their infractions were minor and already addressed.
-
A student from Hyderabad, currently in Omaha, was fined for overspeeding in New York two years ago, but was never arrested.
-
Another admitted to a past DUI but complied fully with court orders.
-
A Texas student whose shoplifting charge was dismissed said he had cooperated fully and maintained a clean academic record.
“I followed all instructions. Why am I being punished again?” he asked.
Immigration Experts: “Unusual and Alarming”
Texas-based immigration attorney Chand Paravathneni, representing around 30 such cases, called the visa revocations “highly unusual.”
“We’ve never seen SEVIS terminated for something as minor as failing to stop at a red light or driving with a learner’s permit,” he said.
Consultants and immigration experts warn that students should seek legal counsel immediately, as some may still have a chance to reverse the revocation.
“This is the first time we’re seeing SEVIS deactivation for offences this minor—most are over a year old,” said Ravi Lothumalla, who runs a US college admissions consultancy.
What This Means for Indian Students
This unexpected crackdown comes amid rising uncertainty in the US immigration landscape. Already grappling with visa caps and employment challenges, Indian students now face the grim reality that even minor missteps could lead to deportation.
Legal experts advise students to:
- Consult an immigration attorney immediately
- Keep all legal documents and case resolutions ready
- Avoid ignoring minor legal issues—even if resolved in court
As fear and confusion mount, the incident underscores the fragility of the F-1 visa status and the urgent need for students to stay informed, cautious, and legally prepared.
