The advisory follows the circulation of a viral video on social media, allegedly showing an Indian woman being detained by police in the United States for reportedly attempting to shoplift from a high-end retail store. While the video has been widely shared online, its authenticity has not been independently verified.
Committing assault, theft, or burglary in the United States won’t just cause you legal issues – it could lead to your visa being revoked and make you ineligible for future U.S. visas. The United States values law and order and expects foreign visitors to follow all U.S. laws. pic.twitter.com/MYU6tx83Zh
— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) July 16, 2025
Taking to X, the US Embassy emphasised the serious consequences of unlawful behaviour by foreign nationals in the country. “Committing assault, theft, or burglary in the United States won’t just cause you legal issues, it could lead to your visa being revoked and make you ineligible for future US visas. The United States values law and order and expects foreign visitors to follow all US laws,” the post read.
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The embassy reiterated that a US visa is a privilege, not a right. In an earlier statement posted on 19 June, it had noted that visa screening continues even after issuance, and any breach of law could prompt revocation by the authorities.
The firm message from US officials serves as a reminder to all foreign nationals — including Indian visitors, students, and tourists — to adhere strictly to the country’s legal code, as any infraction could jeopardise their immigration status and future entry into the United States.
(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)