HYDERABAD: In the wake of heightened scrutiny and stricter enforcement of immigration regulations in the US, many Indians who have overstayed their student visas are now contemplating returning home.
Worried by the frequent inspections at workplaces, coupled with limited job opportunities, these youngsters – mostly aged between 25 and 32 years -- say they are constantly living in fear of being caught, shackled and deported.
Recent data from the Centre for Immigration Studies indicates that 7,000 (approx.) Indian students overstayed their visas in the fiscal year 2023 — the highest number among international students.
A 26-year-old IT graduate who landed in California in 2021 for a master's degree said, "The environment has become increasingly challenging. Even those who completed their education and exhausted their Optional Practical Training (OPT) period have no legal avenues left. Sure, we can continue working in gas stations or restaurants, but who wants to live like this, constantly playing hide-and-seek with the authorities?"
OPT allows F-1 visa holders to take up temporary work for up to 12 months post-graduation. However, for those who have overstayed, legal employment is no longer an option.
"I was aware of my visa violations but hoped to find a way to legalise my stay. Now, with stricter enforcement, returning to India seems like the only viable option," said another 27-year-old finance graduate from Kansas. He added: "I cannot even apply for a corporate job anymore since I am technically ‘illegal.' My biggest concern is my education loan. But if nothing works out, I will surrender and look for opportunities in India. It will not be an easy decision, but I don't have a choice. It is better than being stuffed into a plane with handcuffs and chains and sent home like criminals."
The burden of education loans is a reality of many Indian graduates. Some have spent years working long hours in low-paying jobs to sustain themselves, only to find their dreams of a stable career slipping away. A 30-year-old cybersecurity graduate from Atlanta, who completed his master's a while ago, said, "We pay exorbitant tuition fees, don't land jobs, work multiple odd jobs for 14 hours a day. Our OPT ends, and suddenly, we are illegal. Then what? I am working as a delivery agent despite a master's degree from an Ivy league college. I think it is best to wrap up and leave now."
This issue is particularly alarming given the sharp increase in Indian students pursuing higher education in the US. As of the 2023-24 academic year, over 3.32 lakh Indian students were enrolled in US institutions, surpassing Chinese students for the first time since 2009.
Education consultant Ravi Lothumalla emphasised the importance of informed decision-making for aspiring students. "This highlights the need for prospective international students to thoroughly understand visa regulations and plan accordingly to ensure compliance. While the US remains a sought-after destination for higher education, students must also carefully consider their post-study options and the realities of immigration policies," Lothumalla said.