Nearly 4 lakh Indian students studying in US amid rising visa scrutiny: MEA

New Delhi: In response to a Lok Sabha query raised by MP Asaduddin Owaisi, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has addressed concerns over the evolving treatment of Indian students in the United States, particularly in light of changing visa policies and heightened security measures.

Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, in his written reply, said that as of June 2025, a total of 3,72,424 Indian nationals were enrolled in various educational programmes across the US. These enrollments span primary, secondary, vocational, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses. Over the past five academic years, the number of student visas issued to Indian nationals varied sharply — from 20,628 in 2019–20 to a high of 1,43,811 in 2022–23, before dropping to 99,169 in 2023–24.

The Minister acknowledged that in April 2025, numerous Indian students were abruptly notified of their SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record terminations, which automatically revoked their student visas. In some cases, students were advised to self-deport to preserve future legal re-entry options. Several students contested these decisions in US courts, citing due process violations. In early May, the US administration reinstated thousands of visas in a partial policy reversal, offering momentary relief. However, concerns persist.

Revised policies may widen the criteria for visa revocation. These now include involvement in political demonstrations or other activities considered objectionable by the administration. A June advisory from the US Embassy in New Delhi made it clear that student visas remain under post-approval surveillance. Violations such as missing classes, traffic offences, or even participation in social causes could result in visa cancellation and future travel restrictions.

Further complicating the scenario, new screening protocols announced on June 18 require applicants in F, M, and J categories to make their social media profiles publicly accessible for thorough vetting—a move framed as a national security imperative.

The Indian government, while resecting the sovereign rights of the United States, continues diplomatic efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian students abroad. The Ministry reiterated its dedication to building secure and mutually beneficial mobility arrangements, and to addressing concerns around visa fraud and human trafficking.

IANS