Washington/Islamabad: A wave of fear and uncertainty has spread among Pakistanis living in the United States as the Trump administration intensifies scrutiny of social media activity and visa records. According to reports published on Saturday (August 23, 2025), Pakistani students and other visa holders are increasingly worried about the possibility of deportation under the new review process.
The investigation aims to identify anti-American or extremist posts on social platforms, along with potential violations such as incomplete documents, participation in political activities, or even traffic infractions. Officials argue that the policy is intended to safeguard American citizens, culture, and institutions. However, within the Pakistani diaspora, the move has sparked deep concern.
Traffic Violations Under Review
Pakistan’s Dawn newspaper reported that even minor campus protests and traffic violations could be flagged to the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS). A court judge in Northern Virginia recently informed two Pakistani students that courts will now be required to share traffic violation records with DHS.
Yunus Khan, a student in Baltimore, voiced his anxiety: “We were planning to go to Chicago but were advised not to. We are here on visas, and a small mistake can cause cancellation. It feels like we’re living under a microscope.”
Political Activity Heightens Risk
The Pakistani Embassy in Washington has urged students and visa holders to remain cautious, particularly regarding political activities. Demonstrations—especially those related to Palestine—have become a point of worry for many.
Sameena Ali, a Baltimore resident, said: “Some of us participated in pro-Palestine demonstrations. Now, we don’t know whether we’ll be allowed to stay or face deportation.” Similarly, Mohammad Sajid, a student at George Mason University, said the atmosphere has made it “difficult to even take part-time jobs without fear.”
For those who sought political asylum in the US, the situation is even more precarious. Community leaders note that their applications could face stricter review under the ongoing checks.
Embassy Monitors, But Numbers Unclear
The Pakistani Embassy estimates that between 700,000 and 1 million Pakistanis live in the United States. Many have acquired US citizenship or long-term residency, but a significant number remain unregistered. This lack of clear data makes it difficult to determine how many could be directly affected by the Trump administration’s actions.
While the embassy has assured it is monitoring the situation closely, the lack of clarity has only heightened fears among Pakistani migrants. For many, the uncertainty surrounding their stay in America has overshadowed their studies, work, and daily lives.
As one community elder summarized: “Even a minor mistake can now be treated as a threat. Everyone feels vulnerable.”