In a rare and direct advisory, the US Embassy in India has issued a serious warning to international students—especially Indians—about strict enforcement of F-1 student visa rules. Citing increased immigration checks under the renewed Trump 2.0 administration, the embassy made it clear that even minor violations could lead to deportation and visa cancellation.
What Triggered the Warning?
On May 27, 2025, the US Embassy reminded students of their responsibilities under the F-1 visa program. These include:
- Staying enrolled full-time
- Attending all scheduled classes
- Notifying the institution of any academic changes
- Avoiding unauthorized employment or internships
Failure to comply with these rules can lead to immediate revocation of the student visa—no warning, no second chances.
Why Indian Students Should Be Extra Cautious
Indian students form the largest group of international students in the US, with over 140,000 visas issued in 2023. Their strong presence makes them more vulnerable to sudden policy shifts and increased scrutiny. The embassy’s advisory is seen as a direct response to a growing wave of visa revocations in early 2025, reportedly affecting more than 4,700 students.
Common Violations Leading to Visa Cancellation
International students are now under a microscope. The following actions can trigger immediate visa revocation:
- Skipping classes or poor attendance
- Dropping out without informing the institution
- Enrolling below full-time requirement
- Changing course loads or majors without permission
- Working without proper authorization
What Students Can Do to Stay Safe
To avoid being caught in immigration crossfire, the embassy has advised students to:
- Attend all classes and maintain attendance logs
- Avoid going below full-time academic load
- Report any changes to the Designated School Official (DSO)
- Never take up unauthorized jobs or internships
- Stay informed about visa regulations
Campus advisors across US universities are now urging Indian students to consult before making any academic or employment decisions.
A Wake-Up Call for International Students
The advisory signals a new era of zero-tolerance immigration enforcement. It is not just about academics anymore—every missed class, unauthorized change, or informal job could now risk your stay in the US. For Indian students dreaming of an American degree, following every rule has never been more important.
