An F-1 visa student is now worried about their visa renewal after being arrested following a motorcycle accident in the United States. The student was detained for riding an unregistered vehicle with an invalid permit after swerving to avoid a pedestrian who crossed on a red light.
Arrest and Overnight Detention
The crash caused the student to lose control of the motorcycle, with their girlfriend riding pillion. Out of fear, they initially presented an ID from their home country. However, police later found their state-issued ID during a search. The student was handcuffed to a hospital bed overnight before being moved to a local jail cell.
Charges Dropped, But Immigration Concerns Remain
Prosecutors eventually declined to pursue the obstruction charge, clearing the student of criminal proceedings. Despite this, they now fear that the arrest might affect their F-1 visa renewal and future re-entry while on Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
Legal Experts Call It a Minor Incident
An immigration lawyer reviewing the case deemed it a minor legal issue, advising the student to disclose the arrest in their DS-160 visa application. Experts explained that U.S. background checks reflect all arrests, even without convictions, making transparency crucial.
Experts Warn of SEVIS and Visa Implications
Immigration specialists cautioned that driving violations and arrests can trigger SEVIS termination if not properly reported. They advised that the student should declare the incident in advance to avoid delays or suspicion during visa processing.
A Broader Warning for International Students
The case highlights the fragile position of international students in the U.S. Even minor legal run-ins can escalate into immigration complications, showing how quickly academic dreams can turn into bureaucratic nightmares.
