The Trump administration retracted its sweeping assault on foreign students, but the damage persists. This spring, the government revoked the legal status of over 4,700 students with short notice. Many were stranded abroad after their visas were canceled. Some returned home in fear of detention and then learned they were prohibited from re-entry.
While those who remained in the US experienced mental anguish, loss of jobs, and difficulty pursuing further studies, the government has just started re-establishing student records. Many of them still have a complex and uncertain recovery.
Stranded Abroad After Visa Revocation
An instance is a South Asian student in Houston, whose lab work was terminated when the government revoked his legal status. Fearing detention, he left on a one-way flight back to his home country. Officially, they cancelled his American visa soon thereafter. Now he is stranded. At least a year goes by before one can get a new visa interview.
Even if he manages to get one, economic issues such as outstanding loans and reduced credit score make it difficult for him to go back. He spent almost a decade in the US under optional practical training, which allows students to work for three years after graduation.
Legal Battles and Denial of Due Process
The government revoked thousands of student approvals after screening names against an FBI list of suspects and arrestees—even if they never stood trial. Students received no clear notice or warning. Lawyers sought a federal injunction to safeguard students.
But government attorneys argued that ICE’s reactivation letters were sufficient. But these letters don’t promise visa reinstatement. Plus, ICE hasn’t requested the State Department to reinstate revoked visas.
Long-Term Impact on Students
Numerous students continue to suffer emotionally. A Nepali programmer living in Texas lost his status after a canceled DUI case four years ago. Although authorities re-established his status afterward, he is concerned about future targeting and planning to leave the US due to Trump Visa Policy.
Likewise, a PhD student at Iowa State University experienced a “dark period” when his status expired over pending marijuana charges. He was alone and frightened but went back to teaching after being reinstated.
Nevertheless, he will leave the US shortly, deeming the possibility of being stripped of his status again greater than the value of the degree.
System That Needs Change
This clampdown stranded international students. Many were unaware of their rights or were unable to pay for attorneys. The sudden loss of status interrupted lives, work, and studies. Restoring records is only a half-fix. The harm is permanent. This experience destroyed faith in the US immigration system of Trump.
For many, the dream of studying and working in America now seems unattainable.
