More than 4,700 international students in the U.S. had their legal status abruptly revoked this spring, leaving many stranded, jobless, or forced to return home without notice. While the government has since begun reinstating student records, many affected students face long visa wait times, financial hardship, and emotional distress. A student from South Asia, who lost his job in Houston and returned home fearing detention, said he remains “stranded” after his visa was revoked with no clear path to return.
The crackdown, reportedly based on a review of FBI databases, has raised serious concerns about due process and transparency. Lawyers representing affected students argue that reinstatement letters from ICE are inadequate, as there is no evidence the State Department is restoring revoked visas. Some students, even after reinstatement, say they are now looking to continue their education in countries like Canada or New Zealand, citing fear of further disruptions and a lack of trust in the U.S. immigration system.
