The United States government has revoked more than 100,000 visas in a sweeping immigration enforcement drive, marking a significant escalation of President Donald Trump’s hardline approach to border control and national security.
The U.S. State Department confirmed on Monday that the visa cancellations, carried out since President Trump returned to office last year, represent a record number and underscore Washington’s renewed resolve to tighten immigration controls. The affected visas include about 8,000 student visas and 2,500 specialised visas, largely involving individuals with records of criminal activity or violations of U.S. laws.
According to the State Department, the revocations are part of what officials describe as a “reset” of immigration enforcement, aimed at removing foreign nationals deemed to pose security or public safety risks. Authorities noted that deportations have increased sharply, including cases involving individuals who previously held valid visas.
In a post on X, the State Department stated: “The State Department has now revoked over 100,000 visas, including some 8,000 student visas and 2,500 specialised visas for individuals who had encounters with U.S. law enforcement for criminal activity. We will continue to deport these thugs to keep America safe.”
State Department Deputy Spokesperson, Tommy Pigott, said the four leading reasons for visa revocations were overstaying authorised periods, driving under the influence, assault, and theft.
He disclosed that the figure represents a 150 percent increase compared to visa revocations recorded in 2024.
Pigott also announced the launch of a new Continuous Vetting Centre, designed to monitor foreign nationals already in the United States. He explained that the initiative would help ensure compliance with U.S. laws and allow authorities to swiftly revoke visas of individuals considered a threat to American citizens.
Earlier figures released by the department showed that about 80,000 non-immigrant visas had been revoked by November, indicating a sharp acceleration in enforcement in recent months. The latest update confirms that the pace has continued to intensify.
In addition to revocations, the Trump administration has introduced stricter screening for new visa applicants, including enhanced social media vetting and broader background checks. U.S. diplomats overseas have also been instructed to more closely scrutinise applicants deemed hostile to U.S. interests, particularly those with a history of political activism.
Administration officials have further warned that student visa holders and even lawful permanent residents could face deportation over activities Washington views as undermining U.S. foreign policy, including support for Palestinians and criticism of Israel’s conduct in the Gaza conflict.
The developments highlight a broader shift in U.S. immigration policy under the Trump administration, with authorities insisting that the measures are necessary to protect national security and uphold the rule of law.
