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| Nigerian students preparing to leave the US |
Since late March 2025, US officials cancelled more than 1,000 student visas without warning. This decision forced many students to leave the country soon after. A Department of Homeland Security email ordered them to exit immediately. It warned, “Do not attempt to remain in the United States. The federal government will find you.”
Students from Nigeria, China, India and many other nations now feel acute stress. Some lost visas over minor issues like past traffic tickets. Many students got no clear reason for their visa end. They learned of the revocations through school emails or brief notices.
Lawsuits now test this strict visa policy in US courts. Michigan, Georgia and California legal cases now challenge the process. Judges have granted temporary orders to pause some student deportations. Lawyers say students may see status restored within months if they meet rules.
The government says it targets threats to national policy when it revokes visas. Officials have not shared full public details on these cases. Critics say this move may harm America’s long‑term global image. They warn the policy could cut vital talent from US campuses.
College leaders report wide confusion on many campuses this month. Some say they knew little before students lost legal status. Schools now urge all students to carry proof of their visa at all times. University officers now help with quick legal talks and document checks.
Experts say this crackdown may scare off future students to the United States. They warn this trend could cut hundreds of millions in student fees each year. US colleges rely on this money to fund research and jobs. A drop in enrolment could hit local businesses around campuses.
Some officials defend the visa cuts as a security step. They cite cases that cover campus protests and legal checks. Others call the moves overreach that hurt US public openness. They add tight rules may undermine trust in US law.
Lawyers say students can seek help from immigration experts and rights groups. Some say visas could return if students fight orders in court. One Indiana case may set a wider rule if it wins. Students must act fast to meet legal deadlines and protect status.