Since President Donald Trump took office on January 20, 2025, his administration has revoked approximately 80,000 non-immigrant visas, reports Washington Examiner. According to a senior State Department official, the revoked visas span a wide spectrum of offenses, notably including driving under the influence (16,000 cases), assault (12,000), and theft (8,000), which together account for nearly half of all cancellations this year.The visa revocations form part of a broad crackdown on immigration, initiated swiftly after President Trump’s inauguration. The administration has tightened visa issuance policies through expanded social media vetting and enhanced background screening procedures aimed at preventing individuals who pose risks to national security or violate US laws from entering the country.In addition to criminal offenses, over 6,000 student visas have been revoked due to overstaying or breaking US laws, including a small fraction linked to “support for terrorism.” The State Department also reported revoking visas of at least six individuals over social media comments related to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Visa cancellations surge amid US crackdown on political activism
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio disclosed that hundreds, possibly thousands, of visas, including those held by students were revoked for involvement in activities deemed contrary to US foreign policy priorities. Internal directives issued this year mandate rigorous scrutiny of visa applicants outlining a zero-tolerance “one-strike” policy for temporary visa holders, including students and H-1B workers.The Trump administration has further indicated that holders of student visas and green cards may face deportation for expressing support for Palestinians or criticizing Israel’s conduct during the Gaza conflict. Such expressions are considered a threat to US foreign policy and are labeled as pro-Hamas by officials.The current visa policies significantly reflect the administration’s prioritization of national security and immigration control, leading to an unprecedented number of deportations, including individuals who previously held valid visas.
