Indian Students Face Visa Crackdown in US, Shift Focus to Other Countries

Since January 2025, the United States has deported 682 Indians, including over 300 students whose visas were revoked for various reasons such as campus protests, minor offences, and stricter immigration policies under President Donald Trump’s administration.

Many Indian students are now choosing not to pursue education in the US, leading to a 28% drop in enrolments this year. Experts cite tight visa rules, rising education costs, and uncertainty around post-study work opportunities as major reasons behind the decline.

In response, Indian students are exploring other options like Germany, France, Australia, and the UK, which offer affordable education, easier visa processes, and better post-study work policies. France now offers a five-year work visa for Indian students, while Germany has seen a 49% rise in Indian student enrolments between 2023 and 2024.

Education consultants say this shift reflects growing concerns about safety, cost, and long-term career prospects in the US.