US sounds warning to incoming students; these visa violations may cost you your future

The United States Embassy in India has issued a warning to students, saying violations of US law can lead to visa cancellation, deportation, and long-term restrictions on future travel.

In an advisory issued on Wednesday, the embassy said a US visa is a privilege and not a right, and entry into the country depends on continued compliance with American laws and regulations.

“Breaking U.S. laws can have serious consequences for your student visa. If you are arrested or violate any laws, your visa may be revoked, you may be deported, and you could be ineligible for future U.S. visas. Follow the rules and don’t jeopardize your travel. A US visa is a privilege, not a right,” said the US Embassy in a post on X.

Biometric checks expanded at US borders

The advisory comes amid tighter scrutiny of immigration compliance in the United States, with authorities issuing periodic reminders to foreign nationals about maintaining lawful status while studying or working in the country.

From December 26, the US introduced mandatory biometric checks for all non-US citizens at border entry and exit points. Under the rule, US Customs and Border Protection officials now collect photographs of non-US citizens at airports, land crossings, and seaports.

The requirement applies to all non-US citizens, including Green Card holders, children below 14 years, and adults above 79 years. Earlier, biometric exit checks were limited to pilot programmes at select locations.

The Department of Homeland Security said the expanded biometric system is aimed at addressing security and visa overstay concerns, adding that it is not intended for broad surveillance, though the move has drawn criticism from some quarters.

Increase in immigration application fees

The US has also announced increases to certain immigration application fees from January 1, 2026. The Department of Homeland Security and the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said inflation-linked adjustments will raise charges for several categories of immigration filings, with applicants required to pay updated amounts for submissions postmarked on or after January 1.

These changes reflect automatic annual adjustments and apply to various forms and benefits processed by USCIS.