Leave Now...": A 30-Day Warning For Foreign Nationals Staying In US

In a significant and urgent development, foreign nationals currently residing in the United States are being cautioned with a strict 30-day notice to leave the country. This warning, issued by federal authorities, is part of a broader immigration enforcement push that could have far-reaching consequences for thousands of international visitors, students, workers, and undocumented individuals.

The Background

In recent months, U.S. immigration policy has taken a sharper turn toward strict enforcement, as federal agencies intensify efforts to ensure compliance with visa terms and immigration regulations. Individuals who are deemed to be in violation of their immigration status have begun receiving notices from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in conjunction with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). According to sources within DHS, the 30-day warning is not a blanket order but is targeted toward specific categories of foreign nationals — particularly those who have remained in the U.S. beyond the expiration of their visas or those who have had their immigration petitions denied. However, many legal experts are advising all foreign nationals to double-check their visa statuses and prepare for possible changes due to the broad scope and rapid response. Who Are the Affected? The new directive is primarily aimed at:

Visa overstayers: Individuals who entered the U.S. legally but failed to leave after their visas expired.

Rejected asylum applicants: People whose asylum claims have been denied and have no pending appeals.

Foreign nationals who applied for a change in immigration status but were recently denied are referred to as denied change-of-status applicants. Immigrants without legal status are known as undocumented immigrants. Students on F-1 visas, workers on H-1B or L-1 visas, and tourists on B1/B2 visas are particularly encouraged to check their expiration dates and make arrangements if they are nearing the end of their authorized stay.

Humanitarian and Legal Concerns Immigration attorneys and human rights advocates have raised serious concerns about the 30-day timeline, calling it "unrealistic and harsh." For many individuals, especially those with families, jobs, or ongoing education in the U.S., uprooting their lives in just one month is both emotionally and logistically difficult.

“Immigration law is complex, and a one-size-fits-all approach like this is dangerous,” said Maria Gonzalez, an immigration attorney based in Los Angeles. “Some people may not even be aware that their status is no longer valid. They need time to consult with legal experts, appeal decisions, or make proper arrangements to leave.”

There are also fears of increased raids, detentions, and deportations in the coming weeks as federal agencies begin enforcing the order more aggressively. In response, several legal aid organizations have ramped up efforts to offer free consultations and resources for affected individuals.

What You Should Do

For foreign nationals currently in the United States, here are critical steps to take immediately:

1. Verify your status: Check your I-94 arrival/departure record, visa expiration, and any pending immigration applications.

2. Consult an immigration attorney: If you're unsure about your status or believe you may qualify for an extension or relief, get legal help as soon as possible.

3. Document everything: Keep all paperwork, notices, and communication from USCIS or DHS in one place.

4. Plan your exit: Start making plans to return to your home country if your stay is over or your visa has expired. 5. Follow updates from USCIS, DHS, and reliable immigration law resources to stay informed. Reactions Globally and Politically The 30-day warning has sparked global concern, with several foreign governments reaching out to the U.S. State Department for clarification. Countries with large student and worker populations in the U.S. — such as India, China, Mexico, and the Philippines — have urged their citizens to seek assistance through their embassies.

Domestically, lawmakers are divided. Some argue this is a necessary move to enforce long-standing immigration laws. Others believe it is a political ploy to cut down on immigration ahead of the midterm elections in 2026. Final Thoughts

The U.S. has long been a destination for opportunity, education, and safety. But for many foreign nationals, that dream now hangs in uncertainty. The 30-day warning is a stark reminder of how quickly immigration policy can shift — and how important it is to stay informed, prepared, and legally protected.

In the coming weeks, immigration policy experts expect more details to emerge. Until then, foreign nationals in the U.S. are being advised: act now, seek guidance, and do not wait until it's too late.