New U.S. Policy on Student Visas: What It Means for Pakistani Students

🔍What’s Happening?

The U.S. government has taken steps to legally justify the cancellation of international student visas—and even begin deportation proceedings—in a much easier and more discretionary way than before.

An internal memo from April 2025 outlines reasons for terminating a student’s SEVIS record, which could lead to a loss of legal status in the U.S. and possibly deportation.

⚠️ Key Details from the Memo

U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) can now cancel a student’s visa if:

• The student exceeds allowed unemployment time (e.g., during OPT)
• They fail to report while on Optional Practical Training (OPT)
• They do not comply with immigration paperwork, like Form I-515A
• They fail to pay visa-related fees
• They do not show up at school or withdraw
• Visa is revoked by the U.S. Department of State
• They are suspected of violating visa conditions, even without formal proof

🛑Most concerning: The rules now allow termination based on broad or vague claims like “failure to comply” without notice or a chance to defend yourself.

🔁Nearly 5,000 international students had their status cancelled in SEVIS earlier this year—many without warning. This triggered legal action, and ICE later restored most of those statuses.

Impact on Pakistani Students

Pakistani students already studying in the U.S. or planning to go there should be aware of the increased legal risk and stricter enforcement.

1. Greater Risk of Status Loss

• Even a small mistake, like a delay in reporting OPT employment, could result in loss of visa status.
• ICE may act without notice, and reversing such decisions could be difficult.

2. OPT Students at Higher Risk

• Students on OPT (post-study work) must carefully follow all rules.
• Reporting delays or exceeding unemployment limits (more than 90 days) could trigger deportation proceedings.

✅Example: A Pakistani student working in IT on OPT who forgets to report a job change in SEVIS could suddenly have their visa revoked.

3. Fewer Legal Safeguards

• New rules make it harder to challenge government decisions.
• The State Department can now revoke visas without court review, leaving students legally vulnerable.

 ✅ What Should Pakistani Students Do?

To stay protected under these stricter rules, students should be extra vigilant.

🔒 1. Follow SEVIS Rules Closely

• Always update your school and SEVIS with job, address, or academic changes.
• Don’t miss reporting deadlines, especially while on OPT or CPT.

🧾 2. Keep Proof of Compliance

• Save emails, job contracts, school records, and other documents.
• These can help defend your case if your visa is revoked unfairly.

💼 3. Use Your School’s DSO and Legal Services

• Designated School Officials (DSOs) are your key allies. Tell them immediately if you get any notice from ICE or SEVIS.
• Use university legal services if you’re unsure about your immigration status.

✈️ 4. Be Cautious About Travel

• Leaving and re-entering the U.S. may be riskier under current rules.
• Always check with your DSO before traveling internationally.

🔍 5. Stay Updated on Policy

• Follow trusted sources like NAFSA, SEVIS updates, and your university’s international office.
• Be skeptical of random social media advice—many rumors circulate.