The scale of the cancellations highlights the extensive immigration crackdown that began when Trump returned to the White House last year, resulting in the deportation of an unprecedented number of migrants, including those with valid visas. The administration has also enforced a more rigid visa-granting process, incorporating tightened social media checks and enhanced screening.
“The State Department has revoked more than 100,000 visas, which includes approximately 8,000 student visas and 2,500 specialized visas for individuals who have had encounters with U.S. law enforcement due to criminal activity. We will continue to deport these individuals to maintain safety in America,” the department stated in a post on X.
The primary reasons for the visa revocations included overstays, driving under the influence, assault, and theft, according to State Department deputy spokesperson Tommy Pigott. He noted that these revocations signify a 150% increase from 2024.
The State Department has also introduced a Continuous Vetting Center designed to ensure that “all foreign nationals on American soil comply with our laws — and that the visas of those who represent a threat to American citizens are promptly revoked,” Pigott remarked.
In November, the State Department declared it had canceled roughly 80,000 non-immigrant visas since Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025, for offenses including driving under the influence, assault, and theft.
Also Read | US increases premium processing fees for H-1B and other visas: Key information
Instructions from the State Department this year have directed U.S. diplomats stationed abroad to remain alert to any applicants perceived as hostile to the U.S. and who have a background in political activism.
Officials from the Trump administration have indicated that student visa holders and lawful permanent residents with “green cards” may face deportation due to their support for Palestinians and criticism of Israel’s actions in the Gaza conflict, labeling their behavior a threat to U.S. foreign policy and accusing them of being pro-Hamas.
