The Trump administration’s stringent immigration enforcement measures have significantly impacted green card holders and H-1B visa holders, particularly when traveling internationally. The question now is how these policies affect the Indian community in the United States.
New York-based immigration attorney Naresh Gehi told Newsweek, “The administration is taking the law in their own hands with blatant disregard to the judiciary of the nation.” He added that numerous Indian professionals with green cards have reported increased questioning.
Immigration lawyers argue that even lawful immigrants face enhanced scrutiny at entry points. The government has intensified adherence to existing immigration laws under the justification of national security and border control.
Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary at the Department of Homeland Security, defended these actions, telling Newsweek, “The Trump administration is enforcing immigration laws—something the previous administration failed to do. Those who violate these laws will be processed, detained, and removed as required.”
Additionally, Vice President JD Vance stated in a Fox News interview, “A green card holder doesn’t have an indefinite right to be in the United States.”
Increased Inspections at Airports
This shift has led to more thorough inspections at airports and border checkpoints. Some green card holders have reported instances of detention and intensive questioning upon reentry into the U.S. Legal experts warn that permanent residents who spend more than 180 days outside the country risk facing additional scrutiny upon their return.
A widely discussed case last year involved Fabian Schmidt, a green card holder from New Hampshire, who expressed dissatisfaction with his treatment at Logan Airport after returning from Luxembourg. Reports indicate that he underwent a rigorous interrogation and felt coerced into relinquishing his green card status.
However, Hilton Beckham, Assistant Commissioner of Public Affairs at Customs and Border Protection (CBP), dismissed these allegations in a statement to Newsweek. “These claims [regarding Schmidt] are blatantly false with respect to CBP. When an individual is found with drug-related charges and tries to reenter the country, officers will take proper action.”
Seattle-based immigration attorney Kripa Upadhyay criticized the government’s approach, telling Newsweek, “The revocation of green cards and arrest and detention of individuals in the U.S. without giving them an opportunity to prove their lawful status is a violation of due process.”
Upadhyay also highlighted the case of an Indian executive who was denied entry after being suspected of unauthorized employment while holding a B-1 business visa. “It is not connected to criminal activity on their parts; rather, to the fear of being without status because of excessive delays in immigration processing,” she explained.
Stricter Oversight of H-1B Visa Holders
In addition to targeting green card holders, the administration has tightened enforcement measures against H-1B visa holders. Reports suggest that individuals returning from overseas trips are subject to more rigorous questioning regarding their employment status, job roles, and salary details.
Some H-1B workers have been asked to provide extensive documentation upon arrival, including employer verification letters and pay stubs, before being allowed back into the country. Immigration attorneys warn that even minor discrepancies between visa applications and actual job duties could lead to visa revocation.
One such case involved an IT consultant working for a U.S.-based firm who was detained upon returning from India. Immigration officers reportedly questioned whether his job duties aligned with the visa’s requirements. Despite holding valid work authorization, he was detained for hours before finally being allowed to enter the country.
“Even small inconsistencies in job descriptions can create major issues,” said New Jersey-based immigration lawyer Meera Patel. “Many H-1B holders now travel with a stack of documents just to avoid unnecessary complications.”
Growing Concerns Among Indian Immigrants
The heightened scrutiny has caused anxiety among Indian immigrants, particularly those awaiting permanent residency. Many fear that prolonged travel restrictions and administrative hurdles could disrupt their careers and families.
Some have even reconsidered international travel, worried that a routine trip abroad could lead to additional questioning or, in extreme cases, denial of reentry.
“I used to visit my family in India once a year, but now I think twice,” said Rahul Mehta, a software engineer in California. “The stories of people being harassed at airports make me nervous.”
Even Indian students and professionals on temporary visas have expressed concerns. Those on Optional Practical Training (OPT) worry that any administrative errors could jeopardize their chances of securing a more permanent status in the U.S.
“There is a real fear that even the smallest mistake could lead to deportation,” said immigration advocate Sunita Rao. “People feel like they are constantly walking on eggshells.”
Political and Legal Reactions
Legal experts and immigrant advocacy groups have criticized the administration’s policies, arguing that they create unnecessary obstacles for individuals who have followed legal pathways to live and work in the United States.
Several lawsuits have been filed challenging these policies, with attorneys arguing that enhanced scrutiny disproportionately affects legal immigrants rather than addressing undocumented immigration.
Lawmakers from both parties have also voiced concerns. While some Republicans have supported the measures as a means of enforcing existing laws, Democrats have accused the administration of targeting immigrants unfairly.
“The administration is creating an environment of fear,” said Representative Pramila Jayapal. “Green card holders and skilled workers who contribute to our economy shouldn’t be treated like criminals.”
Meanwhile, some immigration officials argue that the measures are necessary to close loopholes and prevent fraud in the visa and residency process.
Potential Long-Term Impacts
Experts suggest that if these policies remain in place, they could have long-term consequences for the U.S. economy, particularly in industries reliant on skilled foreign labor.
Technology firms, in particular, have expressed concerns that increased immigration enforcement could deter top talent from seeking opportunities in the U.S. Some companies have already started exploring alternative locations, such as Canada, where immigration policies are perceived as more favorable.
“Companies need predictability when hiring international talent,” said Paul Harrington, a senior analyst at a technology consulting firm. “If the U.S. becomes too difficult to navigate, businesses will simply relocate jobs elsewhere.”
Some economists also warn that the uncertainty surrounding immigration could discourage foreign investment. Industries that rely on a steady influx of highly skilled professionals—such as healthcare, engineering, and academia—may struggle to attract the best global talent.
“Immigration policies should be structured in a way that balances national security concerns with economic growth,” said Harvard economist David Lin. “Otherwise, the U.S. risks losing its competitive edge.”
Calls for Reform
As immigration policies continue to evolve, advocacy groups and legal experts are calling for clearer guidelines and greater transparency in enforcement practices.
Some have urged Congress to pass legislation that provides more protections for green card holders and skilled workers, ensuring that legal immigrants are not unfairly targeted.
“There needs to be a more balanced approach,” said immigration attorney William Keller. “People who have followed the law shouldn’t have to live in constant fear of losing their status.”
For now, immigrants affected by the policy shifts are advised to stay informed, maintain proper documentation, and seek legal counsel when necessary.
While debates over immigration enforcement continue, one thing is clear: the landscape for legal immigrants in the U.S. has changed significantly under the Trump administration, leaving many uncertain about their future.