A Pakistani airline mistakenly sent a passenger to Jeddah instead of his intended destination, Karachi, from Lahore, Pakistan. In response, the passenger has sent a legal notice to the private airline claiming that he was not informed that he had boarded the wrong flight despite showing his ticket to the air hostess, according to a report by ARY News.&nbsp;The passenger identified as Shahzain said that two planes were parked at the same domestic terminal gate, which led to the confusion. He said he only realised the error when it was too late, and blamed the negligence of the airline for the trouble he faced after arriving in Saudi Arabia.<h3>What happened next?</h3>In the legal notice, he has demanded that the airline compensate him for the additional travel costs and respond to the issue. He is also seeking reimbursement for the distress and inconvenience allegedly caused by the airline's oversight. He also confirmed that he did not have a visa or passport, according to ARY News.&nbsp;"Two hours into the flight, I questioned why the plane had not yet reached Karachi. This caused panic among the crew, who then blamed me for the mistake," he added. The passenger added that after he asked the airline to fly him to Karachi, they told him that it would take two to three days.&nbsp;"I was told that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) would conduct an inquiry to which I assured to cooperate," he added.&nbsp;Following the incident, the private airline has come under scrutiny, and the Pakistan Airport Authority has also taken notice of the incident. The authority held the Lahore Airport Management, the private airline, accountable for the incident.&nbsp;In response, the manager accused the airline of its negligence and carelessness over the passenger's arrival in Jeddah instead of Karachi. He added that a request for action against the airline has been made to the officials.&nbsp;

The passenger identified as Shahzain said that two planes were parked at the same domestic terminal gate, which led to the confusion. He said he realised the error when it was too late, and blamed the negligence of the airline for the trouble he faced.



A Pakistani airline mistakenly sent a passenger to Jeddah instead of his intended destination, Karachi, from Lahore, Pakistan. In response, the passenger has sent a legal notice to the private airline claiming that he was not informed that he had boarded the wrong flight despite showing his ticket to the air hostess, according to a report by ARY News. The passenger identified as Shahzain said that two planes were parked at the same domestic terminal gate, which led to the confusion. He said he only realised the error when it was too late, and blamed the negligence of the airline for the trouble he faced after arriving in Saudi Arabia. What happened next? In the legal notice, he has demanded that the airline compensate him for the additional travel costs and respond to the issue. He is also seeking reimbursement for the distress and inconvenience allegedly caused by the airline's oversight. He also confirmed that he did not have a visa or passport, according to ARY News. "Two hours into the flight, I questioned why the plane had not yet reached Karachi. This caused panic among the crew, who then blamed me for the mistake," he added. The passenger added that after he asked the airline to fly him to Karachi, they told him that it would take two to three days. "I was told that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) would conduct an inquiry to which I assured to cooperate," he added. Following the incident, the private airline has come under scrutiny, and the Pakistan Airport Authority has also taken notice of the incident. The authority held the Lahore Airport Management, the private airline, accountable for the incident. In response, the manager accused the airline of its negligence and carelessness over the passenger's arrival in Jeddah instead of Karachi. He added that a request for action against the airline has been made to the officials.

The passenger identified as Shahzain said that two planes were parked at the same domestic terminal gate, which led to the confusion. He said he realised the error when it was too late, and blamed the negligence of the airline for the trouble he faced.&nbsp;

'Big blunder': Pakistani airline mistakenly sends passenger to Jeddah instead of Karachi - Here's what happened

The US embassy in India said in a post on Monday that all applicants seeking F, M, or J non-immigrant visas—including students and exchange visitors—have to ensure that their social media profiles are set to ‘public’ to enable background checks. All available information will be used in the visa screening and vetting “to identify visa applicants who are inadmissible to the United States, including those who pose a threat to U.S. national security.” The development comes days after the United States announced that all foreign students applying for a visa must unlock their social media accounts for government review.&nbsp;In the post, the US Embassy in India said that “every visa adjudication is a national security decision,” and added that the applicants will have to “adjust the privacy settings on all of their personal social media accounts to ‘public’ to facilitate vetting necessary to establish their identity and admissibility to the United States.”It further said that the US has been asking visa applicants to provide social media details on immigrant and non-immigrant visa application forms since 2019, and added that all available information will be used in the visa screening and vetting “to identify visa applicants who are inadmissible to the United States, including those who pose a threat to U.S. national security.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Effective immediately, all individuals applying for an F, M, or J nonimmigrant visa are requested to adjust the privacy settings on all of their social media accounts to public to facilitate vetting necessary to establish their identity and admissibility to the United States… <a href="https://t.co/xotcfc3Qdo">pic.twitter.com/xotcfc3Qdo</a>&mdash; U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAndIndia/status/1937089816660680824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Last month, the Trump administration had halted the scheduling of new visa interviews for foreign students seeking to study in the US to properly enhance the process of screening their social media activity.&nbsp;The US State Department said in a statement on June 18 that the scheduling of F, M, and J non-immigrant visa applications will resume soon, and applicants should check with the embassy or consulate website for appointment dates.The State Department further added, “The United States must be vigilant during the visa issuance process to ensure that those applying for admission into the United States do not intend to harm Americans and our national interests, and that all applicants credibly establish their eligibility for the visa sought, including that they intend to engage in activities consistent with the terms for their admission.”&nbsp;The US embassy has reiterated that holding a visa is not a right and that visas can be revoked if a person is found to be in violation of the law, even after arrival.

The United States has been asking visa applicants to provide social media details on immigrant and non-immigrant visa application forms since 2019, and now all available information will be used in the screening and vetting for visa.

The US embassy in India said in a post on Monday that all applicants seeking F, M, or J non-immigrant visas—including students and exchange visitors—have to ensure that their social media profiles are set to ‘public’ to enable background checks. All available information will be used in the visa screening and vetting “to identify visa applicants who are inadmissible to the United States, including those who pose a threat to U.S. national security.” The development comes days after the United States announced that all foreign students applying for a visa must unlock their social media accounts for government review. In the post, the US Embassy in India said that “every visa adjudication is a national security decision,” and added that the applicants will have to “adjust the privacy settings on all of their personal social media accounts to ‘public’ to facilitate vetting necessary to establish their identity and admissibility to the United States.” It further said that the US has been asking visa applicants to provide social media details on immigrant and non-immigrant visa application forms since 2019, and added that all available information will be used in the visa screening and vetting “to identify visa applicants who are inadmissible to the United States, including those who pose a threat to U.S. national security.”

The United States has been asking visa applicants to provide social media details on immigrant and non-immigrant visa application forms since 2019, and now all available information will be used in the screening and vetting for visa.

Want US visa? First unlock your social media accounts for vetting, says embassy in India

The Ministry of External Affairs of India has denied reports in sections of the media of the Saudi Arabia government temporarily suspending issuance of block work visas for citizens from 14 countries, including India, and said the claim is untrue and false.&nbsp;&nbsp;The official FactCheck Account of the Ministry of External Affairs on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, set up in May 2025 to counter both disinformation and fake news on the internet, said in a post on Monday afternoon, “CLAIM: Saudi Arabia temporarily suspends issuance of block work visas for citizens from 14 countries, including India.&nbsp;This CLAIM is FALSE.&nbsp;FACT: The Saudi Government has not issued any notification on this matter. As a matter of practice, during the Hajj season, there are temporary restrictions on short term visas to avoid overcrowding during this season, which end with the conclusion of Hajj.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">CLAIM: Saudi Arabia temporarily suspends issuance of block work visas for citizens from 14 countries, including India. This CLAIM is FALSE. FACT: The Saudi Government has not issued any notification on this matter. As a matter of practice, during the Hajj season, there are… <a href="https://t.co/8dkJddhj3y">pic.twitter.com/8dkJddhj3y</a>&mdash; MEA FactCheck (@MEAFactCheck) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAFactCheck/status/1932022534310166888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Media reports had earlier said that Saudi Arabia has suspended the issuance of block work visas for citizens from 14 countries temporarily. These countries are Bangladesh, India, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Yemen, Sudan, Iraq, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Libya, Kenya, and Turkey.&nbsp;Block work visas are mostly used by firms operating in the Gulf region, who need them often to hire foreign labour.&nbsp; Block work visas are usually pre-approved in bulk by Saudi authorities, and the employers then hand them to employees from different countries. These visas are mostly used in industries like domestic services, hospitality, and construction.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a matter of fact, Saudi authorities put temporary restrictions on short-term visas to avoid overcrowding during the Hajj season to regulate crowds, reduce strain on infrastructure, and ensure the safety of pilgrims, and these curbs are lifted thereafter.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia remains a key destination for migrant workers from South Asia and Africa, particularly in the domestic and low-wage sectors.&nbsp;&nbsp;Saudi authorities were concerned about individuals entering the kingdom on work or short-visit visas and performing Hajj without official permits. Such unauthorised Hajj participation often leads to overcrowding and compromises health and safety standards during the pilgrimage.

 Saudi authorities put temporary restrictions on short-term visas to avoid overcrowding during the Hajj season to regulate crowds, reduce strain on infrastructure, and ensure the safety of pilgrims, and these curbs are lifted thereafter.

The Ministry of External Affairs of India has denied reports in sections of the media of the Saudi Arabia government temporarily suspending issuance of block work visas for citizens from 14 countries, including India, and said the claim is untrue and false. The official FactCheck Account of the Ministry of External Affairs on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, set up in May 2025 to counter both disinformation and fake news on the internet, said in a post on Monday afternoon, “CLAIM: Saudi Arabia temporarily suspends issuance of block work visas for citizens from 14 countries, including India. This CLAIM is FALSE. FACT: The Saudi Government has not issued any notification on this matter. As a matter of practice, during the Hajj season, there are temporary restrictions on short term visas to avoid overcrowding during this season, which end with the conclusion of Hajj.”

&nbsp;Saudi authorities put temporary restrictions on short-term visas to avoid overcrowding during the Hajj season to regulate crowds, reduce strain on infrastructure, and ensure the safety of pilgrims, and these curbs are lifted thereafter.

MEA fact checks reports of Saudi Arabia suspending block work visas, says ‘claim false’

As US President Donald Trump has begun a massive crackdown on illegal immigrants, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/us-embassy-in-india">US Embassy in India</a> has issued a public advisory, warning Indians over their overstay in America.&nbsp;
The US Embassy in India, issued a statement on Saturday (May 17), warning that if people remain in the US beyond their period of stay, they could be deported or permanently banned.&nbsp;
"If you remain in the United States beyond your authorized period of stay, you could be deported and could face a permanent ban on traveling to the United States in the future," the statement read.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-to-roar-last-to-rest-how-the-indian-air-force-has-played-a-pivotal-role-in-indo-pak-wars-9078436">First to roar, last to rest: How the Indian Air Force has played a pivotal role in Indo-Pak wars</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
If you remain in the United States beyond your authorized period of stay, you could be deported and could face a permanent ban on traveling to the United States in the future. <a href="https://t.co/VQSD8HmOEp">pic.twitter.com/VQSD8HmOEp</a>
&mdash; U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAndIndia/status/1923620905449627764?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
Since Trump has returned to the White House, he has announced several policy changes regarding immigration and has taken firm decisions on illegal immigration.&nbsp;
As Trump started his harsh policies against what he calls "aliens", the US president said that he would launch a "self-deportation" programme, offering money and air tickets to undocumented immigrants who voluntarily leave the US.&nbsp;
In an attempt to encourage undocumented immigrants to leave America, Trump during an interview with Fox Noticias, incentivised 'Leave America', by offering them money in return.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/donald-trump-claims-narendra-modis-india-ready-to-cut-a-100-of-their-tariffs-for-the-united-states-watch-9077716">Trump claims India ready to 'cut a 100% of their tariffs for the United States' | Watch</a>
"We're going to give them a stipend. We're going to give them some money and a plane ticket, and then we're going to work with them &mdash; if they're good &mdash; if we want them back in, we're going to work with them to get them back in as quickly as we can," the US president said.&nbsp;
Earlier this year, four batches of Indians were deported by the Trump administration under his promised crackdown on illegal immigrants.&nbsp;
This comes after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to the US, said that those staying in other countries illegally "do not have any legal right to be there", adding that his country was ready to take back its citizens living in America illegally.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/court-halts-trumps-citizenship-order-indefinitely-indian-nationals-in-us-get-reprieve-8699456">Major relief for Indians in US as court indefinitely halts Trump's birthright citizenship order</a>
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The US Embassy in India warned that if people remain in the US beyond their period of stay, they could be deported or permanently banned. WORLD INDIA NEWS

As US President Donald Trump has begun a massive crackdown on illegal immigrants, the US Embassy in India has issued a public advisory, warning Indians over their overstay in America. The US Embassy in India, issued a statement on Saturday (May 17), warning that if people remain in the US beyond their period of stay, they could be deported or permanently banned. "If you remain in the United States beyond your authorized period of stay, you could be deported and could face a permanent ban on traveling to the United States in the future," the statement read. Also read: First to roar, last to rest: How the Indian Air Force has played a pivotal role in Indo-Pak wars If you remain in the United States beyond your authorized period of stay, you could be deported and could face a permanent ban on traveling to the United States in the future. pic.twitter.com/VQSD8HmOEp — U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) May 17, 2025 Since Trump has returned to the White House, he has announced several policy changes regarding immigration and has taken firm decisions on illegal immigration. As Trump started his harsh policies against what he calls "aliens", the US president said that he would launch a "self-deportation" programme, offering money and air tickets to undocumented immigrants who voluntarily leave the US. In an attempt to encourage undocumented immigrants to leave America, Trump during an interview with Fox Noticias, incentivised 'Leave America', by offering them money in return. Also read: Trump claims India ready to 'cut a 100% of their tariffs for the United States' | Watch "We're going to give them a stipend. We're going to give them some money and a plane ticket, and then we're going to work with them — if they're good — if we want them back in, we're going to work with them to get them back in as quickly as we can," the US president said. Earlier this year, four batches of Indians were deported by the Trump administration under his promised crackdown on illegal immigrants. This comes after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to the US, said that those staying in other countries illegally "do not have any legal right to be there", adding that his country was ready to take back its citizens living in America illegally. Also read: Major relief for Indians in US as court indefinitely halts Trump's birthright citizenship order

US Embassy WARNS Indians: Here's what will happen if you overstay in America

Travel: Life & Fun: Discover five countries where Indians can work remotely without a visa, including Bhutan and Nepal. Explore flexible work opportunities in these scenic locations.

5 Countries Where Indians Can Work Remotely Without a Visa

Visa chaos has international students second-guessing their American dream — and rival countries are ready to roll out the red carpet. Will the US lose its edge in the global education race? Take a look at this report to find out.

Visa shakeup has students rethinking their 'American dreams'

Trump government reverses course on student visa terminations amid backlash. US reinstates legal status for foreign students after over 100 lawsuits, sparking relief among international students facing visa uncertainty.

US reverses visa terminations for international students

Seema Haider, who crossed the border to marry an Indian man, Sachin Meena, appealed to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi not to deport her to Pakistan, saying that she's "India's daughter-in-law" and does not want to go to Pakistan.
"I was Pakistan's daughter, but now I'm India's daughter-in-law," Seema Haider said, fearing deportation from India after the Indian government suspended visa services for Pakistani nationals.&nbsp;
Seema Haider made headlines in 2023 when she left Pakistan to marry her Indian lover, Sachin. However, she was already married in Pakistan but she illegally entered India via Nepal along with her four children.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-attack-what-happens-to-pakistani-woman-seema-haider-after-india-suspends-saarc-visa-to-punish-pakistan-8999044">Pahalgam attack: What happens to Pakistani woman Seema Haider after India suspends SAARC visa to punish Pakistan?</a>
Seema was arrested in July 2023 for illegally entering India. Her Husband Sachin too was arrested for providing shelter to an illegal immigrant, but they were later released on bail.
India took major actions against Pakistan after Pakistan-based The Resistance Front (TRF) claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of at least 27 people.&nbsp;
"I do not want to go to Pakistan. I appeal to PM (Narendra) Modi and UP CM Yogi (Adityanath) to let me stay in India," Seema said, in a video making rounds on social media, PTI reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/end-of-cross-border-love-story-this-is-what-seema-haider-said-about-viral-video-that-shows-her-beaten-up-709297">End of cross-border love story? THIS is what Seema Haider said about viral video that shows her beaten up</a>
She also claimed that she had adopted Hinduism now after marrying Sachin.&nbsp;
Moreover, her lawyer is hopeful that she will be allowed to live in India, as she is no longer a Pakistani citizen.&nbsp;
"Seema is no longer a Pakistani national. She married Sachin Meena, a resident of Greater Noida, and recently gave birth to their daughter, Bharti Meena. Her citizenship is now connected with her Indian husband, and therefore the Centre's directive should not apply to her," Advocate AP Singh told PTI on Thursday.
Seema Haider further urged, "I appeal to Modi ji and Yogi ji that I am in their refuge now. I was Pakistan's daughter but now I'm the daughter-in-law of India. Let me stay here."&nbsp;
Following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed 27 tourists, the Indian government announced the suspension of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-what-is-saarc-visa-which-india-has-suspended-to-punish-pakistan-8995071">SAARC</a>&nbsp;(South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) Visa Exemption Scheme. Pakistani nationals living in India on such visas will have to leave the country.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pahalgam-terror-attack-india-cancels-all-17-types-of-visas-for-pakistani-citizens-9000458">India cancels all 17 types of visas for Pakistani citizens; Amit Shah directs CMs to identify and deport Pakistanis | Pahalgam terror attack</a>
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"I'm India's daughter-in-law," Seema Haider said after the Indian government suspended visa services for Pakistani nationals. India news pakistan

Seema Haider, who crossed the border to marry an Indian man, Sachin Meena, appealed to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi not to deport her to Pakistan, saying that she's "India's daughter-in-law" and does not want to go to Pakistan. "I was Pakistan's daughter, but now I'm India's daughter-in-law," Seema Haider said, fearing deportation from India after the Indian government suspended visa services for Pakistani nationals. Seema Haider made headlines in 2023 when she left Pakistan to marry her Indian lover, Sachin. However, she was already married in Pakistan but she illegally entered India via Nepal along with her four children. Also read: Pahalgam attack: What happens to Pakistani woman Seema Haider after India suspends SAARC visa to punish Pakistan? Seema was arrested in July 2023 for illegally entering India. Her Husband Sachin too was arrested for providing shelter to an illegal immigrant, but they were later released on bail. India took major actions against Pakistan after Pakistan-based The Resistance Front (TRF) claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of at least 27 people. "I do not want to go to Pakistan. I appeal to PM (Narendra) Modi and UP CM Yogi (Adityanath) to let me stay in India," Seema said, in a video making rounds on social media, PTI reported. Also read: End of cross-border love story? THIS is what Seema Haider said about viral video that shows her beaten up She also claimed that she had adopted Hinduism now after marrying Sachin. Moreover, her lawyer is hopeful that she will be allowed to live in India, as she is no longer a Pakistani citizen. "Seema is no longer a Pakistani national. She married Sachin Meena, a resident of Greater Noida, and recently gave birth to their daughter, Bharti Meena. Her citizenship is now connected with her Indian husband, and therefore the Centre's directive should not apply to her," Advocate AP Singh told PTI on Thursday. Seema Haider further urged, "I appeal to Modi ji and Yogi ji that I am in their refuge now. I was Pakistan's daughter but now I'm the daughter-in-law of India. Let me stay here." Following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed 27 tourists, the Indian government announced the suspension of the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) Visa Exemption Scheme. Pakistani nationals living in India on such visas will have to leave the country. Also read: India cancels all 17 types of visas for Pakistani citizens; Amit Shah directs CMs to identify and deport Pakistanis | Pahalgam terror attack

'Let me stay, I'm India's daughter': Seema Haider pleads to PM Modi, claims she is 'Hindu' amid Pakistan visa ban

Communist Party of India (Marxist) MP John Brittas on Saturday wrote to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, urging him to raise the issue of the revocation of visas of Indian students with the US government at the &ldquo;highest appropriate levels&rdquo;. In a letter addressed to the minister, Brittas also urged him to ensure that legal and consular assistance is provided to those affected by Indian missions in the US. The CPI(M) MP claimed that a deeply distressing and increasingly alarming situation was being faced by hundreds of Indian students in the United States, whose visas have been revoked without prior notice or sufficient explanation. &ldquo;What deepens the distress is the nature of the reasons cited for these visa revocations &mdash; many of which are astonishingly petty, disproportionate, and wholly incongruous with the gravity of the action taken,&rdquo; he alleged.&nbsp; Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-announces-easter-truce-in-ukraine-conflict-orders-military-to-halt-fighting-8980135">Putin announces &lsquo;Easter truce&rsquo; in Ukraine conflict, orders military to halt fighting</a> He said students have reportedly faced cancellations for minor traffic violations such as speeding or misdemeanours, inadvertent lapses in documentation, unintentional academic infractions without formal inquiry, social media expressions or journalistic writings-especially on issues like the Palestinian conflict as well as minor incidents such as inadvertently failing to scan or catalogue items correctly while using self-checkout kiosks in stores. Brittas also said denial of an opportunity to be heard is creating a &ldquo;chilling atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among thousands of Indian students striving for legitimate academic pursuits in the United States&rdquo;. &ldquo;What is particularly troubling is the opaque and arbitrary nature of these actions, which appear to lack both procedural fairness and proportionality,&rdquo; he said. He said the gravity and magnitude of the issue demand a robust and coordinated diplomatic response by the Government of India.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/scientists-stretch-colour-palette-identify-a-new-unseen-hue-name-it-olo-8980038" rel="dofollow">Scientists stretch colour palette, identify a new, unseen hue, name it &lsquo;olo&rsquo;</a> &ldquo;We must not allow our youth to be subjected to indignities and jeopardy on foreign soil. We need to stand firmly by them in their hour of crisis.&rdquo; Brittas urged the External Affairs Minister to immediately take up the matter with the US Government &ldquo;at the highest appropriate levels, seeking clarity, reversal of unfair visa cancellations, and an assurance of non-discriminatory and transparent treatment of Indian students.&rdquo; &ldquo;I also request your goodself to give instructions to our Missions to provide all possible legal and consular assistance to those affected, including representation and welfare support,&rdquo; he added. Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/researchers-breach-brain-blood-barrier-deliver-medicine-precisely-via-nanoparticles-8957682" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Researchers breach brain-blood barrier, deliver medicine precisely via nanoparticles</a> Amid instances of Indian students in the US receiving communications from local authorities on possible revocation of their visas, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Thursday that Indian missions in the United States are in touch with Indian students facing issues.

World | India News: The CPI(M) MP claimed that a deeply distressing and increasingly alarming situation was being faced by hundreds of Indian students in the United States, whose visas have been revoked without prior notice or sufficient explanation.

Communist Party of India (Marxist) MP John Brittas on Saturday wrote to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, urging him to raise the issue of the revocation of visas of Indian students with the US government at the “highest appropriate levels”. In a letter addressed to the minister, Brittas also urged him to ensure that legal and consular assistance is provided to those affected by Indian missions in the US. The CPI(M) MP claimed that a deeply distressing and increasingly alarming situation was being faced by hundreds of Indian students in the United States, whose visas have been revoked without prior notice or sufficient explanation. “What deepens the distress is the nature of the reasons cited for these visa revocations — many of which are astonishingly petty, disproportionate, and wholly incongruous with the gravity of the action taken,” he alleged. Also Read | Putin announces ‘Easter truce’ in Ukraine conflict, orders military to halt fighting He said students have reportedly faced cancellations for minor traffic violations such as speeding or misdemeanours, inadvertent lapses in documentation, unintentional academic infractions without formal inquiry, social media expressions or journalistic writings-especially on issues like the Palestinian conflict as well as minor incidents such as inadvertently failing to scan or catalogue items correctly while using self-checkout kiosks in stores. Brittas also said denial of an opportunity to be heard is creating a “chilling atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among thousands of Indian students striving for legitimate academic pursuits in the United States”. “What is particularly troubling is the opaque and arbitrary nature of these actions, which appear to lack both procedural fairness and proportionality,” he said. He said the gravity and magnitude of the issue demand a robust and coordinated diplomatic response by the Government of India. Also Read | Scientists stretch colour palette, identify a new, unseen hue, name it ‘olo’ “We must not allow our youth to be subjected to indignities and jeopardy on foreign soil. We need to stand firmly by them in their hour of crisis.” Brittas urged the External Affairs Minister to immediately take up the matter with the US Government “at the highest appropriate levels, seeking clarity, reversal of unfair visa cancellations, and an assurance of non-discriminatory and transparent treatment of Indian students.” “I also request your goodself to give instructions to our Missions to provide all possible legal and consular assistance to those affected, including representation and welfare support,” he added. Also Read | Researchers breach brain-blood barrier, deliver medicine precisely via nanoparticles Amid instances of Indian students in the US receiving communications from local authorities on possible revocation of their visas, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Thursday that Indian missions in the United States are in touch with Indian students facing issues.

CPI(M) writes to Jaishankar, urges him to raise student visa revocation issue with US

21-year-old Indian student Chinmay Deore has sued the Trump administration after his F-1 visa was terminated, threatening his ability to complete studies at Wayne State University. The lawsuit highlights growing fears among international students as visa terminations rise, with reports showing a 34% drop in Indian student enrollment in 2023-2024.

Indian student sues Trump administration over F-1 visa termination

Global students in the US are reporting a sudden termination of the legal status without committing any deportable offenses. According to reports, this has prompted a wave of inquiries from panicked international students to immigration attorneys. While some students claimed to have received notifications from the universities, others reportedly discovered that their status had been terminated through online databases managed by the Department of Homeland Security. Among the most affected were students from India and China. US colleges are grappling by the speed and scope at which the government carrying out terminations. At least 600 students at over 90 colleges and universities have been affected.

US student visa crisis: International students facing termination of status, says report

In what is being touted as a monumental development in the digital asset industry, OpenAI is in discussions with Visa for a stablecoin wallet. The partnership between Visa and World Network, a cryptocurrency project by Sam Altman, will be a landmark deal for the industry as this would mean mainstream infrastructure for the digital assets industry. Watch in for more details!

OpenAI & Visa to join hands for crypto wallet

If you are an Indian residing in the U.S., or planning to move there, chances are that you are constantly refreshing your browser on U.S. immigration policies—especially as they continue to evolve. Recent changes are raising major concerns, particularly for H-1B, F-1, and Green Card holders. Although India isn't officially on any U.S. travel ban list, those with U.S. visas are now facing significant delays, stricter screenings, and even random detentions at airports.

Indian nationals face increased visa delays and detentions

Indian nationals face increased U.S. visa delays and detentions

The US Embassy has granted visa to the family of Indian student Neelam Shinde, who has been in coma after she met with an accident, NDTV has reported. Neelam Shinde, a final year student at an American university, was struck by a four-wheeler in California. Watch to know more!

US Embassy Grants Visa To Family Of Indian Student Nilam Shinde

Days after launching a massive crackdown on illegal immigrants since his return to the White House, US President Donald Trump has reportedly ruled out deporting Prince Harry from the United States, despite ongoing litigation questioning the Duke of Sussex's immigration status.
In an interview with The New York Post on Friday (Feb 8), Donald Trump made it clear that he does not want to take action against Prince Harry, a member of the British royal family who, along with his wife, Meghan Markle, stepped down as working royals in January 2020 and moved to Meghan's native Southern California.
"I don't want to do that," he said. "I'll leave him alone. He's got enough problems with his wife. She's terrible," Trump said.
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<h2 dir="ltr">Trump admired Harry's estranged older brother, Prince William</h2>
Trump's statement comes amid legal challenges involving Harry's visa, particularly from the Heritage Foundation, which has raised concerns over his potential failure to disclose past illegal drug use during his visa application process.
The US President also expressed admiration for Harry's estranged older brother, Prince William, calling him "a great young man."
The two had met privately in Paris during the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in December 2024, a meeting that stood in stark contrast to Trump's strained relationship with Harry and his wife.
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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have long been vocal critics of Donald Trump.
<h2 dir="ltr">Harry's US visa</h2>
A lawsuit filed by The Heritage Foundation against the Department of Homeland Security has sparked questions about Prince Harry's truthfulness on his US visa application. Specifically, his admissions in his memoir "Spare" about past drug use, including cocaine, cannabis, and psychedelics, have raised concerns.
Nile Gardiner of the Heritage Foundation stated, "Anyone applying to the US must be truthful on their application, and it&rsquo;s unclear whether that&rsquo;s the case with Prince Harry," according to the report.
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The conservative think tank has implied that Prince Harry may have benefited from preferential treatment by the Biden administration, potentially due to his high-profile status. This speculation arises from the circumstances surrounding Harry and Meghan's relocation to California in 2020, following their decision to step back from the British royal family, commonly referred to as "Megxit."
(With inputs from agencies)
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World: US President Trump, after a crackdown on illegal immigration, has decided not to deport Prince Harry, amidst ongoing questions about his US residency status.

Days after launching a massive crackdown on illegal immigrants since his return to the White House, US President Donald Trump has reportedly ruled out deporting Prince Harry from the United States, despite ongoing litigation questioning the Duke of Sussex's immigration status. In an interview with The New York Post on Friday (Feb 8), Donald Trump made it clear that he does not want to take action against Prince Harry, a member of the British royal family who, along with his wife, Meghan Markle, stepped down as working royals in January 2020 and moved to Meghan's native Southern California. "I don't want to do that," he said. "I'll leave him alone. He's got enough problems with his wife. She's terrible," Trump said. Also read | The great American guessing game: who runs the country, Trump or Musk? Trump admired Harry's estranged older brother, Prince William Trump's statement comes amid legal challenges involving Harry's visa, particularly from the Heritage Foundation, which has raised concerns over his potential failure to disclose past illegal drug use during his visa application process. The US President also expressed admiration for Harry's estranged older brother, Prince William, calling him "a great young man." The two had met privately in Paris during the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in December 2024, a meeting that stood in stark contrast to Trump's strained relationship with Harry and his wife. Also read | After Biden, Trump cancels security clearances for Blinken, Jake Sullivan The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have long been vocal critics of Donald Trump. Harry's US visa A lawsuit filed by The Heritage Foundation against the Department of Homeland Security has sparked questions about Prince Harry's truthfulness on his US visa application. Specifically, his admissions in his memoir "Spare" about past drug use, including cocaine, cannabis, and psychedelics, have raised concerns. Nile Gardiner of the Heritage Foundation stated, "Anyone applying to the US must be truthful on their application, and it’s unclear whether that’s the case with Prince Harry," according to the report. Also read | Alaska plane crash: Bodies of all 10 people recovered. Here’s what we know The conservative think tank has implied that Prince Harry may have benefited from preferential treatment by the Biden administration, potentially due to his high-profile status. This speculation arises from the circumstances surrounding Harry and Meghan's relocation to California in 2020, following their decision to step back from the British royal family, commonly referred to as "Megxit." (With inputs from agencies)

‘I'll leave him alone’: Donald Trump on why he won’t deport Prince Harry

Prince Harry's US residency is under scrutiny, as his visa records will be reviewed in a court hearing on February 5. Watch this report for more details!

Prince Harry's immigration status sparks controversy

Prince Harry faces scrutiny over US visa

As the swearing-in of Donald Trump nears, the U.S. faces increasing uncertainty around the h-1b visa program, which is crucial for foreign workers in specialty occupations. The program, introduced in 1990, has seen growing discontent due to its complexity, administrative costs, and lottery-based selection process. Watch in for more details!

Decline In H-1B Approvals Fuels Remote Hiring Trend | World Business Watch | WION

Nepal's visa policy is in limbo. The Himalayan nation's visa-free ticket policy, when introduced in 2015, was celebrated as a groundbreaking initiative to minimize the migration costs for Nepali workers heading to Gulf nations and Malaysia. However, its poor implementation has led to a dramatic surge in migration of workers. Watch in for more details!

Migration of Nepali workers increased by 102 percent: Report

The Bangladeshi government has streamlined the visa process for Pakistani nationals to enhance trade and economic ties between the two countries. Watch this report for more details!

Bangladesh eases visa process for Pakistanis to strengthen ties

Germany, a part of Europe's 29-nation Schengen region, will be rolling out Digital Schengen Visas for Indians by the second quarter of 2025, said the Chennai-based German Consul General Michaela K&uuml;chler. This move comes at a juncture when the inflow of Indian visitors to Germany is at an all-time high.&nbsp;
In 2023, German diplomatic missions in India issued more than 1.8 lakh (180,000) Schengen Visas to Indians, and this year the number of Schengen Visas issued to Indians is expected to surpass the 2 lakh (200,000) mark. She added that the total time for obtaining a Schengen Visa (including appointment wait time and processing time) from a German mission takes less than four weeks for applicants from Southern India.
Schengen region refers to Europe's passport-free zone covering most European countries. The largest free travel area in the world, it spans 29 countries that have abolished their internal borders to allow the unrestricted movement of people. Schengen visas allow the holder to travel freely in the Schengen region for a maximum of 90 days in any 180 days. The visas are not purpose-bound, but they do not grant the right to work.&nbsp;
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The 29 Schengen countries are Austria, Bulgaria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Among travellers from India, Schengen visas are regarded as hard to obtain, owing to the types of proofs, documents, and personal and banking details that are to be submitted.&nbsp;
Given that these visa rules are decided by all the Schengen states, there are rigorous requirements.&nbsp;
Germany is India&rsquo;s prime trading partner in the European Union, with domains such as defence, automobiles, heavy engineering, manufacturing, electrical equipment, metallurgy, textiles, and chemicals as major drivers of trade ties.
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Ranjit Pratap, Chairman of the Southern Region Council, Indo-German Chamber of Commerce, highlighted Germany's ageing population and the need for a young labour force, which offers opportunities for Indians and Indian businesses. According to the German Government, the country needs 400,000 skilled workers annually to support its economy and society, and Germany sees India as a key partner in meeting this need.
"Going forward, we see immense potential in Indo-German ties because Germany has launched a strategy to diversify economic engagement, and India plays a major role in that strategy. Germany's interest in looking towards India has increased a lot," Consul General Michaela K&uuml;chler added.

World | India News: Schengen region refers to Europe's passport-free zone covering most European countries, and is the largest free travel area in the world. 

Germany, a part of Europe's 29-nation Schengen region, will be rolling out Digital Schengen Visas for Indians by the second quarter of 2025, said the Chennai-based German Consul General Michaela Küchler. This move comes at a juncture when the inflow of Indian visitors to Germany is at an all-time high. In 2023, German diplomatic missions in India issued more than 1.8 lakh (180,000) Schengen Visas to Indians, and this year the number of Schengen Visas issued to Indians is expected to surpass the 2 lakh (200,000) mark. She added that the total time for obtaining a Schengen Visa (including appointment wait time and processing time) from a German mission takes less than four weeks for applicants from Southern India. Schengen region refers to Europe's passport-free zone covering most European countries. The largest free travel area in the world, it spans 29 countries that have abolished their internal borders to allow the unrestricted movement of people. Schengen visas allow the holder to travel freely in the Schengen region for a maximum of 90 days in any 180 days. The visas are not purpose-bound, but they do not grant the right to work. Also read | French military bombs ISIS positions in Syria, the first since fall of Assad govt The 29 Schengen countries are Austria, Bulgaria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. Among travellers from India, Schengen visas are regarded as hard to obtain, owing to the types of proofs, documents, and personal and banking details that are to be submitted. Given that these visa rules are decided by all the Schengen states, there are rigorous requirements. Germany is India’s prime trading partner in the European Union, with domains such as defence, automobiles, heavy engineering, manufacturing, electrical equipment, metallurgy, textiles, and chemicals as major drivers of trade ties. Also read | China declares two new counties, one of them created with large parts of India's Aksai Chin Ranjit Pratap, Chairman of the Southern Region Council, Indo-German Chamber of Commerce, highlighted Germany's ageing population and the need for a young labour force, which offers opportunities for Indians and Indian businesses. According to the German Government, the country needs 400,000 skilled workers annually to support its economy and society, and Germany sees India as a key partner in meeting this need. "Going forward, we see immense potential in Indo-German ties because Germany has launched a strategy to diversify economic engagement, and India plays a major role in that strategy. Germany's interest in looking towards India has increased a lot," Consul General Michaela Küchler added.

Germany to introduce Digital Schengen Visa for Indians from 2025

President-elect Donald Trump has backed tech billionaire Elon Musk on the special visa program, which would enable highly skilled workers to enter the country. Talking to the New York Post, Trump expressed support for the initiative. Watch in for more details!

Elon Musk Vows To ‘go To War’ To Defend H-1B Visa Programme

Opinion | Indians seeking H1B work visas in the US may lose out on new opportunities, but in an economic sense, those very opportunities may shift to India

Anyone watching the ideological shootout within the American right wing as Donald Trump gets set to take charge for a second term in the White House should realise a simple truth: the United States is entering an era of all-round protectionism, spanning capital flows, consumer goods and labour. Unless Trump does a careful balancing act or a U-turn, we are heading for a year of serious policy changes officially aimed at his "Make America Great Again" (MAGA) agenda but in effect challenging the business-as-usual style in which Silicon Valley has led a global surge in technology and innovation, helping US domination in the world economy. But the inference from this would be more complex than it may appear at first sight. Also read | 2024: Year of the Trump phenomenon As I see it, once the game gets down to details, Indians (and others from outside the US) seeking H1B work visas and better lifestyles in the US may lose out on new opportunities, but in an economic sense, those very opportunities may shift to India like it did in the 1990s and 2000s when "offshoring" became hot. The difference is that this time, India is in an even better position to tap opportunities because the size of skilled and experienced knowledge professionals, infrastructure development, and communications bandwidth are far superior. Officially, H1B visas are long-term non-immigrant permits for those engaged in speciality occupations that require high skills. The year 2024 is ending in America with serious disagreements between the folks we call Trumpists. Technology billionaire Elon Musk officially supports the H1B visa as a vehicle to attract talent on merit, but has calibrated his position to seek "reform" in the system after a backlash post that says the H1B programme is only aimed at recruiting technology and financial service professionals at "relatively low wages" and not to draw "top talent." That should not make sense on close examination. Better work that produces better results attracts better wages -- and quibbling over what is "top talent" is a difficult game to play where employers are ordinarily the best judges of what talent is. But the pushback Musk is facing is symptomatic of the protectionism in which an "America first" policy for local citizens (Read: mostly white, less competitive technology workers) are expected to get priority. Also read | Trump to Musk: 2024 was the year of the toxic male Former Trump White House strategist Steve Bannon wants an outright scrapping of H1B visas and has even issued a warning to Vivek Ramaswamy and Musk, the co-chiefs of Trump's DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency). To leave little to doubt on the kind of hate that is going around against Indians, there is a viral video of far-right commentator Stew Peters and comedian Leonarda Jonie spewing venomous racism against Indian immigrants. With that kind of atmosphere, H1B may be a difficult thing to sustain and even more difficult to grow. Trump is certainly in a bind. Musk wants to raise the minimum salary for H1B visa approvals but that is hardly of relevance beyond a point. Last year, as much as 69% of those gaining from H1B visas with a salary below $100,000 per year were Indians. The number of employees covered by H1B visas totalled less than 54,000 of which 65% were for "computer-related" operations. Now, contrast that with some interesting data on global capability centres (GCC) of multinational companies functioning in or from India. According to industry association Nasscom, as many as 1,700 GCCs in India employed nearly 1.9 milllion people in the fiscal year ended March 2024, generating more than $64 billion in annual revenues. The government's economic survey for the year said as many as 42% of GCC employees were engaged in engineering, research and development. A study by consulting firm Zinnov noted that these included artificial intelligence and machine learning experts needed at the cutting edge of global business. Also read | Trump 2.0: The Golden Age of America or four more years of disruption? In plain English, India now has the scale, base and processes necessary to absorb all the H1B visa holders hired over the past decade, should that need arise. Some enhanced infrastructure facilities may be a clincher, but that is relatively easy in the current scenario. It is a naive thought to imagine that businesses deploying capital would meekly accept the narrow-minded Trumpists who do not understand the larger dynamics in a world in which everything from cryptocurrency to robotics and genomics needs a solid technologically educated workforce. If not India, they may settle for other countries to deploy or hire talent. European countries are already waking up to the prospect of hiring talented Indians. The irony is that in defending less than 100,000 jobs per year on a liberal count, the United States, which has a total of 168 million people in its civilian workforce, may be losing its grip on global technological leadership -- not to speak of small business growth aided by guest workers and rich immigrants. Extreme-right Trumpists seem to be adept at cutting America's nose to spite its technological face. It is their choice. P.S. On the downside of H1B returnees, Indians may have to worry more about narrow local roads choked with outsized Audis, Jaguars and BMWs, unless the government puts new-age cities on a fast-track model.

America's H1B protectionism is set to benefit India. Here's why

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