US revokes student visas of international students in at least 29 states

Students across California, Ohio, and North Carolina are losing their visas without explanation, being arrested by plainclothes officers, and facing accusations of terrorist activities.

NBC news reports that as of April 9, International students’ visas have been revoked in 29 states, citing a 1952 foreign policy statute, and others have been terminated for past charges like Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs.

For a number of reasons, including convictions for DUI or similar offenses, the government has the authority to cancel visas. The State Department may potentially decide to cancel them for national security reasons.

The Trump administration uses a rare 1952 Immigration and Nationality Act provision, allowing the secretary of state to deport noncitizens if their presence could lead to significant foreign policy consequences.

Advocates and attorneys suggest that individuals who have protested in support of Palestinians, faced arrests, and engaged in certain political social media posts are most likely to be targeted.

The Trump administration is implementing a comprehensive immigration crackdown, focusing on international students, according to immigration attorneys and policy experts.

According to students and universities, there is widespread misunderstanding regarding the rationale for the student visa revocations and the legitimacy of the government’s actions.

Most targeted students are studying in the US under F-1 and J-1 visas. To qualify for an F-1 visa, they must meet ICE approval, English proficiency, English proficiency courses, and sufficient funds to support themselves throughout their studies.

The J-1 visa is granted to students, teachers, researchers, and specialists, permits participation in approved programs for studying, research, training, or demonstrating skills, with a mandate to return to their own country within 30 days.

Source: https://www.financialexpress.com/business/investing-abroad-us-student-visa-crackdown-hits-international-students-in-several-american-states-3810540/