As the U.S. tightens its immigration policies, international students must be extra cautious to avoid unintended violations that could lead to visa cancellation or deportation. New York-based immigration attorney Bashu Phulara has emphasized the importance of strict compliance with visa regulations to ensure a smooth academic journey.
“International F-1/M-1 students who follow all visa rules and U.S. laws have nothing to worry about. However, recent policies emphasize strict enforcement, meaning even unintentional violations can lead to serious consequences, including visa cancellation or deportation,” Phulara stated.
To help students stay on the right track, he shared four essential tips:
✅ Always comply with your visa requirements, including full-time enrollment and work restrictions – Attorney Phulara advises students to maintain full-time enrollment and adhere to work restrictions. Unauthorized employment, including off-campus work without proper authorization, is a common reason for visa issues.
✅ Get accurate information from official sources like your university or legal advisors – Attorney Phulara suggests seeking guidance only from official sources such as your university’s international student office or a licensed immigration attorney. Misleading information from unverified sources can lead to serious consequences.
✅ Avoid legal issues that could put your immigration status at risk – Even minor legal infractions can put your immigration status at risk. Attorney Phulara emphasizes the importance of understanding local laws and avoiding any legal troubles, as even small violations can lead to serious consequences for your visa status.
✅ Don’t fall for rumors—verify facts before reacting – Rumors and misinformation can cause unnecessary panic. Always fact-check information through reliable sources before taking any action regarding your immigration status. Phulara stresses the importance of not falling for rumors.
“By staying informed and following the rules, you can focus on what matters most—your education and future,” said Phulara. “The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Students facing immigration concerns should consult a qualified immigration attorney for personalized guidance.”

According to the 2024 Open Doors Report, the United States has set a new record by hosting 1.13 million international students.There were 16,742 Nepali students enrolled in American universities during the 2023–24 academic year, making Nepal the 10th-largest country of origin for international students in the U.S., according to the report.
In the 2023/24 academic year, the number of Nepali students increased by 10.9% compared to the previous year, accounting for 1.5% of all international students in the U.S. In the 2022/23 academic year, there were 15,090 Nepali students in the U.S. Previously, the total count of Nepali students was 11,799 in 2021/22, 11,172 in 2020/21, 12,730 in 2019/20, 13,299 in 2018/19, 13,270 in 2017/18, and 11,607 in 2016/17.
According to the January 2025 SEVIS data, there are currently 16,933 Nepali international students in the United States, with 10,430 males and 6,503 females. This marks a decrease from January 2024, when the number stood at 20,153, which further increased to 23,435 by March 2024.
Data from the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs reveals that 13,187 Nepalis were granted U.S. student visas during the fiscal year 2024, marking more than a twofold increase compared to the previous fiscal year, 2023.