How To Avoid Deportation As A Foreign Student In The U.S.

The Trump administration has recently intensified its efforts to deport students and academics, marking a new phase in its broader immigration restrictions. According to data collected nationwide, over 600 international students and recent graduates in the U.S. have had their visas revoked or their legal status changed by the state department.

As of Thursday, April 10, 2025, more than 100 colleges and universities have reported over 600 cases of students whose immigration status was altered by the Trump administration. These institutions indicate that the affected students have lost their F-1 or J-1 student visas.

Some of these cases are linked to the students’ activism and involvement in student-led protests against the Gaza war, while others involve “minor crimes” like speeding tickets.

Inside Higher Ed reports that many college officials are unclear about why these foreign-born students had their visas revoked and have not received any formal notification from immigration authorities.

The data compiled by Inside Higher Ed comes from public reports and direct correspondence, and the database, which was first published on April 8, will be regularly updated at least twice a day.

Late last month, reports revealed that over 300 student visas were revoked in just three weeks through the state department’s “Catch and Revoke” program. This newly launched initiative, which is partially powered by artificial intelligence (AI), uses social media to identify “foreign nationals who appear to support Hamas or other designated terror groups” and subsequently cancels their visas, according to Axios.

Effective Ways To Avoid Deportation In The U.S.

Maintain Legal Status:

Ensure your visa status is always up to date. This means keeping track of expiration dates, renewing your visa on time, and ensuring that your records with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) are correct.

Adhere to the Terms of Your Visa:

F-1 Visa Holders must be enrolled in a full-time academic program, and you can only work under specific conditions (like on-campus employment or authorized off-campus employment). Stay within the bounds of your visa.
J-1 Visa Holders should comply with the specific terms of the exchange visitor program you are part of and follow the restrictions regarding employment, travel, and program duration.

Avoid Controversial Activities:

The Trump administration’s increased focus on deporting students involved in activism or protests related to political issues, such as the war in Gaza, makes it important to be cautious about engaging in activities that could draw attention from immigration authorities. If you’re involved in protests, be mindful of how your participation could be perceived.

Stay Clear Of Legal Violations:

Minor legal violations, such as traffic tickets, have also contributed to visa revocations. It’s crucial to obey local laws to avoid any issues that could trigger immigration actions.

Avoid Association with Controversial Groups:

The “Catch and Revoke” program utilizes social media to monitor potential connections with groups designated as threats, such as Hamas or other terrorist organizations. Be cautious of any online content that could be perceived as supportive of such groups.

Be Aware of Social Media:

Given that social media activity is being monitored, avoid posting or sharing content that could be interpreted as controversial or connected to extremist views. Social media platforms could be used by the government to assess your activities and affiliations.

Stay Informed on Immigration Policies:

Stay updated on the latest immigration policies and changes under the current administration. Legal requirements and enforcement actions can change, and staying informed helps you understand what might affect your status.

Consult with an Immigration Attorney:

If you have concerns about your status, consult with an experienced immigration lawyer who can provide guidance based on your situation. They can help ensure that you’re following the rules and advise you on how to protect yourself.

Engage with Your College or University:

Colleges and universities are often on the frontlines of protecting students’ rights. Stay in touch with international student services, as they can provide assistance in case of visa-related concerns and help clarify any questions you have about your status.

Respond Quickly to Immigration Notifications:

If you receive any communication from immigration authorities or your school regarding potential visa issues, respond immediately. Delays or failure to act can lead to further complications with your status.