Visa Overstay Leads to ICE Arrest and Removal Proceedings
If you have overstayed a visa, speak with an immigration lawyer before any contact with law enforcement or immigration authorities. Do not wait — the sooner you understand your options, the more choices you may have. You can also call the ICE tip line at 866-347-2423 if you have information about criminal activity.
What Happened
ICE arrested Dipakkumar Ghelani, an Indian national, at the Duval County Pre-Trial Detention Facility in Florida on April 16, 2026. Ghelani now faces immigration proceedings after overstaying his visa. This case is a reminder of the serious consequences a visa overstay can bring — even years later.
Ghelani first entered the United States on March 18, 2016, on a B-2 tourist visa (a short-term visa for visitors). That visa was valid until May 23, 2019. He stayed in the country after it expired. When an immigration officer interviewed him, he could not show any documents proving he had the legal right to remain in the US.
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Immigrant rights, appeals and protective measures
ICE found Ghelani through its 287(g) program — a partnership that allows local and state law enforcement agencies to help enforce federal immigration law. In this case, the Florida Highway Patrol had arrested Ghelani on a felony warrant related to drug trafficking, with an estimated street value of over $13 million. ICE also noted a prior conviction for providing alcohol to a child and other criminal arrests. ICE will decide whether to keep him in custody after his local and state criminal charges are resolved.
What This Means for People With a Visa Overstay
If you have stayed in the US past the expiration date on your visa or your Form I-94 (the official record of your allowed stay), you may be considered unlawfully present. This can make you a priority for ICE enforcement, especially if you have any contact with law enforcement. Being placed in removal proceedings (the official legal process that can lead to deportation) is a real risk.
What to Do
- Check your status now. If you are unsure whether your visa or authorized stay has expired, lawyers recommend reviewing your Form I-94 record at the official CBP website and speaking with an immigration lawyer as soon as possible.
- Do not ignore the problem. In many situations, people who overstayed a visa may still have options — such as applying for a different visa, seeking asylum, or other forms of relief. An immigration lawyer can review your specific case.
- Know your rights if ICE contacts you. You have the right to remain silent and the right to speak with a lawyer. Lawyers recommend not signing any documents without legal advice.
- If you are already in removal proceedings, attend every immigration court hearing. Missing a hearing may result in a deportation order issued without you present.