US Embassy tough visa warning after Indian woman caught shoplifting in Illinois

The US Embassy in India has issued a strong advisory warning foreign nationals that committing crimes such as assault, theft, or burglary in the United States can lead to immediate visa revocation and jeopardise future visa eligibility.

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

The warning comes after an Indian woman was caught allegedly shoplifting merchandise worth $1,300 (approx. Rs 1.1 lakh) from a Target store in Illinois on May 1.

According to police bodycam footage, the woman spent over seven hours inside the store before attempting to leave without paying. An employee confronted her, and police were called.

The woman offered to pay but was detained and is now facing felony theft charges.

In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the US Embassy stated, “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.”