Trump administration warns immigrants: Screening doesn’t stop when you get a visa

Trump administration: The US Department of State recently reaffirmed its commitment to strict immigration enforcement through an official post on its ‘X’ account. It emphasized that visa holders are continuously monitored to ensure compliance with all US laws and immigration rules. The Trump administration warned that those failing to adhere risk visa revocation and potential deportation.

This heightened scrutiny has significantly affected Indian Green Card holders, particularly elderly individuals who travel to India for extended periods. Reports indicate that US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have pressured many returning Green Card holders to sign Form I-407, which voluntarily relinquishes their permanent residency. Those who resist have allegedly faced threats of detention or immediate deportation.

Green Card Holders Under Fire

A Green Card grants an individual the right to live and work permanently in the US. However, recent actions suggest that the government is imposing stricter conditions, leaving many Indian Green Card holders in a state of uncertainty.

The CBP’s approach has led to widespread anxiety among Indian immigrants, especially the elderly. Many returning from India have been confronted at US airports with aggressive questioning. Reports claim that CBP officers suggest—or even pressure—individuals to sign Form I-407. Those who refuse allegedly face threats of prolonged detention or expulsion.

Trump Administration’s Tough Immigration Policies

The intensified immigration enforcement follows a series of executive orders issued by President Donald Trump after his return to the White House. Trump’s administration has reinstated hardline immigration policies, mirroring those from his first term.

Vice President JD Vance has reinforced this stance, stating in an interview with Fox News that holding a Green Card does not guarantee indefinite residency. His remarks have further fueled concerns that permanent residents must navigate an increasingly restrictive immigration system to maintain their status.

The Trump administration crackdown aligns with broader anti-immigration sentiment in Washington, where conservative policymakers continue advocating for stricter border controls and tighter enforcement measures.

Targeting Elderly Indian Green Card Holders

While the new policies impact all Green Card holders, elderly Indian immigrants appear to be disproportionately affected. Many within this demographic spend part of the year in India, particularly during winter months. However, the Trump administration has begun interpreting these extended stays as evidence that they no longer intend to reside permanently in the country.

Previously, Green Card holders who stayed abroad for over six months faced increased questioning upon reentry. Now, even those who have been away for shorter durations report being subjected to intense scrutiny.

For many elderly immigrants, the fear of losing their permanent residency has created a sense of entrapment. They are left with a painful choice—limit their travel to India or risk coercion at the border.

Legal Challenges and Advocacy

Immigration lawyers and advocacy groups have raised alarms over CBP officers’ tactics. While the law permits Green Card holders to travel, recent reports suggest an unofficial policy shift aimed at discouraging extended stays abroad.

Legal experts stress that officers cannot forcibly make someone sign Form I-407. However, elderly immigrants—many of whom are not fluent in English or unfamiliar with US immigration laws—often feel pressured into compliance.

Advocacy groups urge Green Card holders to know their rights. Those facing intimidation at the border should refuse to sign Form I-407 and request legal assistance.

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