Visa revocations surge under Trump’s second term as Washington tightens immigration enforcement, citing security concerns, criminal records, and foreign policy considerations.

The United States State Department has revoked more than 100,000 visas since President Donald Trump returned to office, marking the highest number of visa cancellations recorded in a single year, according to official figures.

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the sweeping action reflects the administration’s commitment to protecting U.S. citizens and safeguarding national sovereignty. Since President Trump’s second inauguration on January 20, 2025, the number of revoked visas has more than doubled the total recorded in 2024 under former President Joe Biden.

Officials disclosed that a significant portion of the visa cancellations was connected to criminal offenses, including assault, driving under the influence, and other violations of U.S. law. The administration has emphasized that visa privileges are contingent on compliance with American laws and values.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio also confirmed that thousands of visas were withdrawn from foreign students, some of whom had participated in protests related to the Israel-Gaza conflict. Rubio cited a Cold War–era law that permits the U.S. government to deny entry or revoke visas of foreigners deemed to be acting against U.S. foreign policy interests. However, several of these student-related revocations were later challenged and overturned in court. In total, approximately 8,000 student visas were affected.

Beyond visa cancellations, the administration has introduced stricter screening measures, including expanded reviews of applicants’ social media activity. These steps form part of a broader immigration crackdown spearheaded by the Department of Homeland Security.

According to DHS data, more than 605,000 people were deported in the past month alone, while an additional 2.5 million migrants reportedly left the United States voluntarily during the same period.

The State Department maintained that the actions are part of a comprehensive strategy to enforce immigration laws, strengthen border controls, and protect U.S. national interests amid growing domestic and global security concerns.

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