The U.S. State Department has revoked more than 100,000 visas since President Donald Trump assumed office last year, marking a sharp escalation in immigration enforcement. This includes thousands of student and specialized visas linked to criminal encounters. Officials pledge to continue deportations to enhance national security.
On Monday, the U.S. State Department disclosed that it has canceled over 100,000 visas during the first year of President Trump's administration. This figure reflects a 150% rise in revocations from 2024 levels, underscoring the government's intensified approach to immigration control.
In a statement posted on X, the department highlighted specific actions: "The State Department has now revoked over 100,000 visas, including some 8,000 student visas and 2,500 specialized 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."
Spokesperson Tommy Pigott reinforced this stance, noting the department's commitment to deporting such individuals to safeguard citizens. The revocations primarily stem from visa overstays, driving under the influence, assault, and theft. To bolster oversight, the administration established a Continuous Vetting Center for ongoing monitoring of foreign nationals in the country.
The policy extends beyond crimes into foreign affairs. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's team has withdrawn visas from people in Argentina, South Africa, Mexico, and Brazil who expressed support for the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.
Additionally, reforms target the H-1B program, introducing a $100,000 application fee and "Project Firewall" to curb corporate misuse and protect American jobs from low-wage competition. Despite President Trump's support for foreign students due to their economic contributions to universities, revocation rates have doubled compared to the prior administration, indicating a sustained focus on rigorous screening.
