Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, May 18: The US Embassy in India has issued a stern warning to Indian citizens traveling to the United States, cautioning that overstaying a visa could result in deportation and a permanent ban from future entry into the country. The warning came through a recent post on the embassy’s official social media account, and is the third such advisory issued this month, highlighting growing US concerns over illegal immigration.
The embassy stated: “If you remain in the United States beyond your authorised period of stay, you could be deported and could face a permanent ban on traveling to the United States in the future.”
The advisory is applicable to all non-immigrant visa holders including those on student, work, tourist, and business visas. Embassy officials clarified that the visa validity date is not the same as the permitted duration of stay in the US. That decision is made at the time of entry by a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer.
The embassy reminded travellers: “A ten-year visa does not mean you can stay in the United States for 10 years. Entry and stay duration is determined at the port of entry.”
This series of warnings comes amid a broader clampdown under ongoing US immigration policies. Citing a coordinated interagency effort, an earlier embassy post read: “Those found guilty of visa fraud will face permanent bans. New visa restriction policies apply to individuals and foreign governments who facilitate illegal immigration.”
Although not directly targeted at Indian nationals, a third post at the start of May stressed the US government's work with other countries to reduce border threats and enhance deportation cooperation: “We thank our partners for supporting US efforts to deter illegal immigration by facilitating the return of deportees.”
The embassy’s frequent alerts have raised speculation about an increase in visa overstays or illegal immigration attempts involving Indian nationals, though no official reason has been cited. A new policy change under the Trump administration mandates that all foreign nationals staying in the US for over 30 days must register with federal authorities, further tightening immigration oversight.
Indian travellers are strongly advised to review the terms of their stay and ensure strict compliance with US immigration rules, as even brief overstays can lead to serious legal consequences.