Why are student visas being targeted in the US? The risks, rights, and legal challenges under Trump’s new policies – The Times of India

The Trump administration has intensified its immigration policies, leading to the revocation of hundreds of student visas across the United States. As of April 8, 2025, this crackdown has sparked widespread concern among international students and universities, raising questions about free speech, national security, and the future of global education in the US.
Federal officials are targeting students for reasons ranging from pro-Palestinian activism to minor infractions like traffic violations, using rarely invoked powers under the Immigration and Nationality Act. This shift has left students and academic institutions grappling with uncertainty, as the US risks losing its appeal as a top study destination.
What is a student visa?
A student visa, such as the F-1 or J-1, allows foreign nationals to study at US colleges and universities. Issued by the State Department, these visas require students to maintain full-time enrollment and adhere to strict regulations. Historically, even if a visa was revoked, students could often stay and complete their studies, but new policies demand immediate departure.
Why the sudden revocations?
The crackdown stems from President Donald Trump’s pledge to deport students linked to pro-Palestinian protests. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed on March 27 that over 300 visas were revoked, targeting what he called “lunatics” involved in campus activism. The administration cites a clause allowing visa denial for “serious adverse foreign policy consequences,” often tied to alleged support for groups like Hamas, monitored through AI-driven programs like “Catch and Revoke.”
Rights at risk
Noncitizens in the US enjoy First Amendment protections, including free speech, yet this crackdown blurs the line. Legal experts warn that targeting students for protests or social media posts could infringe on these rights, setting up a First Amendment showdown. Cases like Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia student detained in March, and Rumeysa Ozturk, a Tufts scholar arrested on March 25, highlight the tension between security and liberty.
Uncertain future for students
Universities report students losing legal status without notice, with some detained or self-deporting. At Minnesota State University, five students faced unexplained revocations, while others at Cornell and North Carolina State fled voluntarily. Immigration lawyers note that students can seek hearings, but due process varies, leaving many vulnerable to detention or deportation amid this unprecedented enforcement wave.