If you follow law, America offers opportunities: US to Indian students

The US Department of State has issued a strong warning to international students, including those from India, saying that any violation of American laws could lead to serious consequences, including deportation.

Margaret MacLeod, spokesperson for the US State Department, said the Trump administration is strictly enforcing immigration laws, including the Immigration and Nationality Act and the Alien Registration Act, reports PTI.

“If you follow the law, America offers opportunities. But those who break the law will face the consequences,” said MacLeod, responding to concerns about Indian students facing visa issues.

Recently, many Indian students have reported that their F-1 student visas are being revoked — some due to their participation in pro-Palestinian protests, others due to minor legal offenses.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has taken note. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that the Indian government is in touch with the affected students and is offering support through its embassy and consulates in the US.

MacLeod did not reference individual cases but stressed the importance of complying with all US legal and visa regulations. She also addressed the broader issue of illegal immigration, urging those in the US unlawfully — including family members of Indian nationals — to voluntarily return to their home countries.

“There’s still an opportunity to return voluntarily,” she said, pointing people to the Department of Homeland Security or the CBP One app to help with departure processes.

MacLeod noted that voluntary return is better than facing stricter enforcement actions in the future.

Indian student numbers rise — but visas fall

Despite the challenges, more than 330,000 Indian students were enrolled in US universities in the 2023–24 academic year — a 23% increase from the previous year, making India the largest source of international students in the US.

However, reports show that student visa approvals dropped by 30% in February 2025, the first month of Trump’s return to office.

High-level talks & counterterrorism cooperation

The US Vice-President, JD Vance, who would be visiting India on Monday is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi before a private trip to Jaipur and Agra.

Asked about the recent deportation of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, accused in the 2008 Mumbai attacks, MacLeod confirmed he was sent back to India to face trial.

“India and the US will continue to work together on counterterrorism,” she said.

Diaspora