Securing a student visa to study in the United States is a significant step for many international students, but it is not the end of the process. While obtaining the visa is the first hurdle, maintaining it comes with its own set of challenges. A US student visa can indeed be revoked or cancelled, and this can have serious consequences, including the loss of legal status in the United States.
What Could Lead to Cancellation?
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the US State Department, or consular officers may decide to revoke or cancel a student visa due to several reasons. Violations of the terms under which the visa was issued are a primary cause, and students are notified in most cases. Here are some of the most common reasons for cancellation:
• Prolonged Absence: If a student leaves the US for more than five months without informing their academic institution, their visa may be revoked. This absence violates the visa’s conditions.
• Unauthorized Transfer: Changing schools without updating visa records can lead to visa cancellation. If this transfer information is not properly recorded, it could result in the student being marked absent.
• Fraudulent Activities: Engaging in any fraudulent activities, such as submitting false documents or working without authorization, may cause visa revocation.
• Failure to Meet Visa Criteria: A student may lose eligibility for their visa due to changes in their circumstances or other emerging information.
External factors, including third-party allegations related to security or criminal concerns, can also lead to the cancellation of a visa.
What to Do if Your Visa is Cancelled
If your visa is revoked, it is essential to take immediate steps to address the situation. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Understand the Reason for Cancellation: Begin by identifying why the visa was cancelled. Whether it’s due to prolonged absence or an administrative issue, understanding the cause will guide your next actions.
2. Contact Your University’s International Student Services (ISS): The ISS office can provide support and resources, including advice on reapplying for the visa or appealing the decision.
3. Reapply or File an Appeal: If you believe the cancellation was a mistake or based on circumstances that can be explained, such as a medical absence or a valid transfer, you may reapply for your visa. Supporting documentation and explanations should accompany this application.
4. Seek Legal Assistance: In more complicated cases, seeking legal counsel from an immigration attorney may be necessary. Legal experts can guide you through the process and help present your case to authorities.
5. Stay Calm and Informed: Though the situation is stressful, clear communication with your university, legal advisors, and understanding the process can help you navigate it effectively.
While having a visa revoked is challenging, taking the right steps quickly can sometimes help resolve the issue and get students back on track with their studies in the US.
Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/study/what-happens-if-your-us-student-visa-is-cancelled/articleshow/113635058.cms
