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US Revokes Record 100,000+ Visas in Security Crackdown Under Trump

The Trump administration has revoked over 100,000 visas from foreign nationals in less than a year, marking a record enforcement level. State Department officials say the action, a 150% increase, targeted individuals accused or convicted of crimes like assault and DUI. The increase is credited to new mechanisms like the Continuous Vetting Center, which monitors visa holders after entry. This move intensifies the debate over immigration enforcement and national security in the U.S.

Key Points: US Revokes 100,000+ Visas in Security Push

  • Record 100,000+ visas revoked
  • 150% increase from previous year
  • Targets foreign nationals charged/convicted of crimes
  • New Continuous Vetting Center tracks holders
  • Part of broader "America First" security push
2 min read

US revokes record 100,000 visas in security push

The Trump administration revoked over 100,000 visas in under a year, a 150% increase, targeting foreign nationals charged with crimes.

"The Trump administration has no higher priority than protecting American citizens and upholding American sovereignty. - Tommy Pigott"

Washington, Jan 13

The Trump administration has revoked more than 100,000 visas from foreign nationals in less than one year, marking a record level of enforcement as part of its push to strengthen border controls and public safety, the US State Department said.

"The Trump administration has no higher priority than protecting American citizens and upholding American sovereignty," said Tommy Pigott, Principal Deputy Spokesperson at the State Department

Pigott said the scale of the action represents a sharp escalation compared to previous years.

"In less than one year, the State Department revoked over 100,000 visas from foreign nationals, marking a new record and more than a 150% increase in revocations since 2024," he said.

According to the statement, the visa cancellations targeted foreign nationals accused or convicted of a range of criminal offenses.

"The State Department revoked visas from thousands of foreign nationals charged or convicted with crimes, including assault, theft, and driving under the influence," Pigott said.

The administration credited the increase in revocations to enhanced screening and monitoring mechanisms introduced under President Donald Trump.

"The State Department's recently-launched Continuous Vetting Center works to ensure that all foreign nationals on American soil comply with our laws - and that the visas of those who pose a threat to American citizens are swiftly revoked," Pigott said.

The Continuous Vetting Center is designed to track visa holders after their arrival in the United States, rather than relying solely on screening at the time of application or entry. Officials say the system allows authorities to respond more quickly when visa holders are charged with or convicted of crimes.

Pigott said the policy reflects a broader national security approach being pursued by the administration.

"The Trump administration will continue to put America first and protect our nation from foreign nationals who pose a risk to public safety or national security," he said.

However, the statement did not provide a country-by-country breakdown of the revoked visas or specify how many involved temporary visitors, students, or longer-term residents.

The move comes amid intensified debate in the United States over immigration enforcement, border security, and the balance between national security and legal immigration pathways. Visa policies have emerged as a central focus of the administration's domestic and foreign policy agenda.

Visa revocation authority allows the US government to cancel visas issued to foreign nationals if they are deemed ineligible or pose security or public safety concerns.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While public safety is important, 100,000 is a huge number. The article mentions no country breakdown. I hope this isn't unfairly targeting specific nationalities. Continuous vetting sounds intense, like constant surveillance.
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Priya S
My cousin's H-1B was approved last year, and this news makes the family anxious. We follow all rules, but what if there's a minor mistake or misunderstanding? The system should be fair and transparent, not just harsh.
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Rohit P
If they're revoking visas of people convicted of crimes like assault or DUI, then it's justified. No country should host foreign nationals who break their laws. But the scale is surprising. "America First" is their policy, we must respect that, but also protect our citizens' interests.
M
Meera T
This will definitely impact the Indian diaspora. Many of us have family there. The lack of details is worrying. Is this mostly tourist visas or long-term ones? Time for our government to seek assurances for Indian passport holders.
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David E
As someone who values security, I understand the intent. However, a 150% increase is drastic. There must be a robust appeals process. One mistake shouldn't ruin a person's career and life plans. Hope compassion isn't completely lost.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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