Ongoing monitoring raises concerns for Indian visa holders

The US Department of State has announced that visa holders will be monitored even after they receive their visas. This statement has caused concern among Indian immigrants. The Trump administration stresses that anyone who breaks US laws or immigration rules may face having their visa revoked or being deported. The situation is particularly worrying for Green Card holders. While a Green Card allows individuals to live and work in the US permanently, it does not guarantee an indefinite residency. JD Vance, a political figure, emphasized that even respected Green Card holders might not have the right to stay in the US forever. Conservative groups are pushing for immigration policies that make it harder for both documented and undocumented immigrants to reside in the US. This has led to anxiety among Indian Green Card holders, especially the elderly, who often travel back to India during colder months. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have reportedly pressured returning elderly immigrants to sign a form that would give up their permanent residency status. These officers interpret long stays abroad as a lack of intent to live permanently in the US. As a result, many immigrants feel trapped and are reluctant to visit their home country, fearing they might lose their US residency. Immigration lawyers argue that this represents an abuse of power by CBP officers, creating an intimidating environment for seniors. The uncertainty surrounding Green Card holders is discouraging many from pursuing the immigration process to the US.