The U.S. Embassy in India has issued a stern warning to visa holders, stating that engaging in criminal activities such as theft, assault, or burglary within the United States can lead to the immediate revocation of their visas and potential bans on future entry.
The embassy conveyed this message via a post on X, emphasizing that the U.S. "values law and order and expects foreign visitors to follow all US laws". The warning highlights that committing such crimes not only results in legal repercussions but also jeopardizes one's visa status and future eligibility for U.S. visas.
This announcement follows a recent incident involving an Indian woman who was allegedly caught shoplifting at a Target store in Illinois. Reports indicate that the woman spent a significant amount of time in the store, selected items worth approximately $1,300 (Rs 1.1 lakh), and then attempted to leave without paying. A video of the incident went viral, showing a store employee confronting the woman. In the video, a police officer can be heard questioning the woman about whether she is allowed to steal things in India. The woman is reportedly facing felony charges.
The U.S. Embassy's warning underscores the importance of respecting and adhering to the laws of the United States for all foreign visitors. It serves as a reminder that a U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right, and that authorities may revoke it if an individual breaks the law. The embassy had previously stated on June 19th that visa screenings don't stop after the visa is issued.
The consequences of theft can be severe. Depending on the value of the stolen items, a person could face significant fines and imprisonment. For instance, if the value exceeds $300, it could be classified as a Class 4 felony, punishable by a fine of up to $25,000 and imprisonment for one to three years.
The U.S. administration has been focusing on the deportation of criminals. According to UN data, over 142,000 individuals have been deported from the U.S. since January. Furthermore, there have been increased background checks and social media screening for visa applicants.
Ministry of External Affairs also responded to queries on the issue, stating that it is the responsibility of a person to abide by the laws there, whether they are a citizen of that country or a foreign national. They urge people to respect and follow the laws of the country they are visiting to build a good and positive image for themselves, and project a good image of their country.
Legal experts emphasize that incidents like theft or assault can lead to the cancellation of valid visas and prevent individuals from reapplying for U.S. visas in the future. The U.S. Embassy has strongly advised all foreign nationals traveling to the United States to ensure complete compliance with American laws throughout their stay.
