Amid growing concerns over immigration measures under the Trump administration, many Indian students in the United States have started quitting their part-time jobs, despite the financial strain these jobs are essential to alleviate. The fear of deportation has become a significant worry for students, especially as Donald Trump, after his re-election, has issued a series of executive orders aimed at tightening border security and expediting the deportation of illegal immigrants.
Impact of Trump’s Immigration Measures on Indian Students
For many international students, especially those from India, part-time work is crucial for covering living expenses. However, with the growing concern about immigration enforcement under the Trump administration, students are choosing to quit jobs at restaurants, retail stores, and gas stations. These jobs are often the lifeline for students studying in the US on F-1 visas, which allow them to work up to 20 hours per week on-campus. Many, however, rely on off-campus employment to make ends meet.
Arjun, a graduate student in Illinois, shared his experience, saying, “I used to work at a small cafe after college to cover my monthly expenses. I earned $7 per hour and worked six hours a day. It was a comfortable arrangement, but I quit last week after hearing about possible immigration enforcement on unauthorized work. I can’t risk it, especially after borrowing $50,000 (Rs.42.5 lakh) to study here.”
Widespread Fear Among Students
Another student, Neha, who is pursuing her master’s in New York, voiced similar concerns, adding that the fear of random checks at her workplace prompted her decision to quit. She said, “My friends and I have decided to stop working for now. It’s tough, but we don’t want to risk deportation or losing our student visa status. My parents have sacrificed so much to send me here.”
The financial burden on students has now shifted, with many becoming increasingly reliant on money borrowed from family. The added stress of potential deportation, coupled with academic responsibilities, is taking a toll on students’ emotional well-being.
Deportation Fears and Indian Government Response
The recent immigration crackdown has also impacted diplomatic relations, as Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed that India has agreed to accept undocumented Indian nationals who may be deported from the US. However, Jaishankar clarified that the Indian origin of these individuals would need to be verified.
As of now, there is no official estimate of how many Indian nationals could be affected by the deportation policies. The situation remains uncertain, but the fears among students are growing as the US government intensifies immigration enforcement.
