Green Card holders on alert: What international students must know about US immigration crackdown

What international students must know about US green card warning issued by CBP.

As the United States intensifies its immigration enforcement under the Trump administration, international students—especially those on student visas or with green card aspirations—are being urged to stay well-informed and cautious. The recent warning by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) highlights a growing climate of scrutiny, where even lawful permanent residents are at risk of losing their legal status if found violating immigration or criminal laws.On X (formerly Twitter), CBP issued a direct message: green card holders with a criminal record or those found violating the terms of their residency could face detention and even deportation. In particular, the agency emphasised that green cards are a “privilege, not a right”—and breaking the law may cost you that privilege.For international students and recent graduates navigating the U.S. immigration system, this warning is more than just political posturing—it could affect their long-term plans for work, settlement, or further studies.

Why students and young professionals should care

According to the U.S. Office of Homeland Security Statistics, over 12.8 million people hold lawful permanent resident (LPR) status in the U.S. as of January 2024. A significant number of these are former international students who transitioned to employment-based green cards or family-sponsored immigration.With visa revocations and green card scrutiny increasing, students planning to transition from F-1 (student visa) to Optional Practical Training (OPT), H-1B work visas, or green card processes must be extra cautious.Here’s what Indian students and other international learners need to keep in mind:

1. Stay legally compliant

Whether on a student visa or green card, any violation of immigration status—like overstaying, working off-campus without authorisation, or providing false documents—can trigger deportation proceedings.Pro tip: Always consult a Designated School Official (DSO) or an immigration attorney before taking steps like internships, off-campus jobs, or changes in your academic program.

2. Criminal record is a major red flag

Even minor infractions—such as shoplifting or drug possession—could become grounds for removal. U.S. immigration law is strict, and green card holders or visa holders are not exempt from removal proceedings if they commit crimes.Note: Some misdemeanors may seem small but are taken seriously by immigration courts. Students should stay informed, especially during events, protests, or any public gatherings.

3. Be aware of political activism

The Trump administration has expanded deportation scrutiny to include political activism, particularly among those involved in pro-Palestinian movements. There are growing cases where students on visas or green cards have been detained for allegedly supporting extremist ideologies—even if unintentionally.While freedom of expression is a protected right, visa holders do not enjoy the same protections as citizens. Exercising caution while posting online, attending protests, or distributing politically charged material is essential.

4. Due process still applies

Despite the warnings, legal experts affirm that green card status cannot be revoked overnight. The law under the Immigration and Nationality Act requires a formal process, where individuals are served a Notice of Intent to Rescind, and have the right to a hearing before an immigration judge.That said, the burden of proof is on the government, and not every infraction leads to deportation. But detainment at ports of entry, long waits, or travel bans are real risks.

5. Avoid misinformation and social media traps

Government agencies including USCIS and ICE have ramped up social media campaigns targeting immigrants. Some posts encourage voluntary self-deportation or imply automatic green card revocations. Many of these statements, while technically lawful, are presented in a way that causes fear or confusion.Students are advised not to panic, but to rely on verified information from university advisors, immigration lawyers, or government websites.

The bigger picture

For many Indian students, the U.S. remains the top destination for higher education, tech careers, and long-term migration. But with the re-emergence of Trump-era policies, the road from an F-1 visa to a green card may get bumpier.Even those who have already secured permanent residency should not take it for granted. From background checks to social media screening, the scrutiny is expanding—and knowledge is the best defense.What you can do: