US asking Indian students to self-deport. Here's what they can do

The situation for Indian students in the US has taken a sharp and alarming turn due to intensified visa scrutiny, arbitrary revocations, and policy shifts under the Trump administration. Here's a clear summary of what's happening and what legal options remain:

WHAT’S HAPPENING TO INDIAN STUDENTS IN THE US

• Student visa revocations are on the rise, triggered by minor infractions like shoplifting, speeding, or social media activity. Once revoked, students are required to self-deport within 15 days, unless they initiate removal proceedings.

• Top universities such as Stanford, Harvard, and Arizona State have publicly acknowledged these revocations, calling them unexpected and concerning.

• AI-based monitoring (via executive orders 14161 and 14188) is now being used to scan social media profiles, leading to increased surveillance and targeting, particularly for political expression, especially around pro-Palestinian activism.

• Over 300 international students have already been affected as of March 2024, with Indian students—who now surpass Chinese students in numbers—disproportionately impacted.

LEGAL OPTIONS FOR AFFECTED STUDENTS

1. Reinstatement Request (USCIS):

   • This is a very slow and often unsuccessful process.

   • Requires an admission of a status violation, which may hurt your future immigration prospects.

   • No work, internship, or practical training is allowed while the reinstatement is pending.

   • Immigration judges cannot review a denied reinstatement request.

   • It is not recommended under current conditions, unless there's no alternative.

2. Removal Proceedings:

   • Students can stay in the US to fight deportation in court.

   • They have the right to legal representation (but must pay for it themselves).

   • They can challenge the government's case and argue they are not removable.

   • This is considered more viable than immediate self-deportation, as it provides legal recourse.

3. Self-Deportation:

   • Often viewed as a last resort, especially if visa revocation was sudden.

   • However, leaving the US without challenging the action may make it harder to return in the future.

IMPORTANT GUIDANCE FOR INDIAN STUDENTS

• Keep immigration and academic documents ready at all times.

• Do not travel internationally unless absolutely necessary—re-entry could trigger intense scrutiny or denial.

• Monitor emails, especially the one used during visa application, for notices from SEVIS or DHS.

• Avoid any activity—online or offline—that could be misinterpreted, especially anything politically sensitive.

• Seek legal advice immediately if your visa is under threat or revoked. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT

• Many universities are now:

  • Referring affected students to immigration lawyers.

  • Creating response protocols for visa revocations.

  • Monitoring policy enforcement for discriminatory patterns.

  • Advocating for clear answers from federal agencies.

BOTTOM LINE The climate is fraught, especially for Indian students—who are otherwise critical to the US education system and economy. Legal recourse exists, but it’s complex, time-consuming, and expensive. The key is to stay alert, informed, and legally prepared.

Would you like a list of legal organizations or helplines Indian students can reach out to in the US?