The US embassy in India has issued a fresh warning to international students, saying that breaking laws in the United States can lead to serious consequences, including visa cancellation and deportation.
In a message posted on X, the embassy reminded students that a US visa is a privilege and not a right. It said students must strictly follow US laws to avoid jeopardising their stay and future travel plans.
“Breaking US laws can have serious consequences for your student visa. If you are arrested or violate any laws, your visa may be revoked, you may be deported, and you could be ineligible for future US visas,” the embassy said.
The embassy’s warning makes it clear that even a single legal violation can have long-term effects. Students who lose their visas may not only be forced to leave the US but could also face difficulties getting visas in the future.
The advisory comes at a time when international student movement to the US is already slowing down.
New international student enrolments at US colleges and universities fell by 17 percent this autumn, according to a report by the Institute of International Education (IIE). The study covered responses from 825 institutions across the country.
While 29 percent of universities reported an increase in new enrolments and 14 percent saw no change, a majority—57 percent—recorded a decline.
Among institutions that saw falling enrolments, 96 percent said visa application issues were a key reason. Many universities also pointed to long waiting periods and temporary suspensions in visa processing earlier this year.
Around 68 percent of institutions cited travel restrictions introduced during the Trump administration as another major factor discouraging students.
Indian students, who form the largest group of international students in the US, accounted for the biggest drop in new enrolments, according to the report.
In recent years, immigration rules affecting students have become tighter. Measures include closer scrutiny of visa applicants, the possibility of consular officers asking for public social media accounts, and delays or cancellations during visa renewals.
Together, these steps have increased uncertainty for students planning to study in the US, especially from countries like India where demand for overseas education remains high.