Indian students with past minor violations receive self-deportation notices as US immigration tightens rules
In a sweeping move, dozens of Indian students studying in the United States have been asked to leave the country after US immigration authorities revoked their F-1 student visas. The students, some with minor past offences like traffic violations, shoplifting, or DUI, received emails directing them to self-deport immediately, citing invalid SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) status, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
Even minor infractions like speeding or first-time shoplifting now grounds for deportation
The emails sent by Designated School Officials (DSOs) across universities in Missouri, Texas, and Nebraska, pointed to past criminal charges—even if resolved—as grounds for termination of visa status. The communication clearly stated that Form I-20, Employment Authorization Documents (EAD), and F-1 visas were no longer valid, stripping these students of their right to remain or work in the US.
Many students were stunned by the development, especially since most offences were committed months or even years ago and had been legally settled. One student from Nebraska recounted receiving a speeding ticket in New York over two years ago. “I paid the fine and complied with the legal formalities. I was never arrested,” he said, currently working under OPT after completing his master’s in project management.
Another student in Missouri admitted to a DUI case where a breathalyser ignition lock was installed in his car. “I’ve been clean since and following all requirements. Now this email has left me shaken,” he shared.
Lawyers and experts say the enforcement approach is unprecedented
Immigration attorney Chand Paravathneni, currently representing nearly 30 students facing visa revocation, said: “Revoking SEVIS for infractions like lane shifting or shoplifting is unheard of. These cases were typically closed with basic legal procedures.”
He added that even common student infractions—such as not having a licensed driver present on a learner’s permit—were never earlier considered deportable offences. “We’re checking to ensure there are no other undisclosed issues behind these notices,” he said.
Consultants and legal advisors urge students to act swiftly
Ravi Lothumalla, founder of US Admissions, noted that offences like shoplifting or DUI, while not uncommon among students, are treated seriously in the US legal system. “What’s alarming now is that SEVIS terminations are happening for cases that were previously considered too minor,” he said. He advised affected students to consult immigration lawyers immediately, as there may still be a chance to reverse or appeal the decisions.
Several Hyderabad-based students caught in the crosshairs expressed frustration over being penalized long after their offences were settled. A student from Austin, Texas, who was arrested for accidentally shoplifting $144 worth of items at Walmart in 2023, said, “The case was dismissed in a month due to good academic standing and no prior record. Why am I being punished again?”
As US immigration authorities appear to be tightening the enforcement net, international students are now under more scrutiny than ever—even for the smallest of past legal infractions.
