This statement was shared through the embassy’s X account against the backdrop of a recent immigration crackdown by the Trump administration in Los Angeles, California.
“Engaging in illegal drug activity or violating US laws while holding a student/visitor visa can render you ineligible for future US visas. A US visa is a privilege, not a right. The process of US visa screening does not conclude once a visa is issued—we may revoke your visa if the law is broken,” the statement read. This is the third such announcement from the US Embassy in India this month, reiterating its welcoming stance towards legal travelers to America while affirming that illegal entry or visa misuse will not be accepted.
Using illegal drugs or breaking any U.S. laws while on a student/visitor visa can make you ineligible for future U.S. visas. A U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right. U.S. visa screening does not stop after a visa is issued – and we may revoke your visa if you break the law. pic.twitter.com/YaSm0pNkTm
— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) June 19, 2025
The United States “will not tolerate” any actions that facilitate illegal and mass immigration, as noted by its embassy on June 16.
In an earlier statement, the US Embassy indicated that the United States has “implemented new visa restrictions” directed at foreign government officials and others involved in such actions.
On June 10, the embassy reiterated that while the United States continues to welcome legitimate travelers, it “cannot and will not tolerate” illegal entries or visa abuses, as well as violations of US law.
Meanwhile, on June 18, the US State Department announced the resumption of the suspended student visa application process, but all applicants will be mandated to unlock their social media accounts for government scrutiny.
The department noted that consular officers would be vigilant in monitoring posts and messages that could be perceived as hostile towards the United States, its government, culture, institutions, or foundational principles.
A notice released on Wednesday revealed that the department had lifted its May suspension of student visa processing, stating that new applicants who do not set their social media accounts to “public” for review may face rejection. It explained that refusal could be interpreted as an attempt to evade requirements or conceal online actions.
Last month, the Trump administration temporarily halted the scheduling of new visa interviews for foreign students intending to study in the U.S. while preparing to widen the scrutiny of their social media activities, officials reported.
Students globally have been anxiously awaiting the reopening of U.S. consulates for visa interviews, as the opportunity to arrange travel and secure housing becomes increasingly limited ahead of the new academic year.
(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)
First Published: Jun 19, 2025 7:37 PM IST
