Over 1,000 international students face Visa revocations in US, legal storm brewing

More than 1,000 international students across the United States are facing sudden visa and residency revocations, sparking anxiety and legal battles as many are now at risk of deportation. According to a recent investigation, students from at least 160 universities — including Harvard, Stanford, University of Michigan, and Ohio State — have had their legal status revoked since late March.

Also Read: Tensions rise for Indian students at Harvard Amid U.S. policy crackdown

The abrupt cancellations have disrupted academic careers, with several students forced to leave the country or abandon their education midway. In many cases, the students say they were given no prior notice or explanation for the action. Some reported that even minor infractions, such as outdated traffic tickets, were cited as grounds for revocation.

Legal challenges have begun to mount against the Department of Homeland Security, with students accusing the agency of violating due process and implementing what they allege is a silent, nationwide policy of mass terminations. Lawsuits have emerged in several states, including Michigan, California, and Georgia, with civil rights groups backing student claims.

A federal court in New Hampshire has already issued a temporary restraining order in one such case, signaling that more judicial interventions may follow. As legal proceedings unfold, the fate of hundreds of international students — many of whom are enrolled in top academic institutions — hangs in limbo.