The State Department noted that among the revoked visas, more than 8,000 were student visas, as well as about 2,500 specialized visas issued to individuals with connections to U.S. law enforcement on criminal matters. In its statement on social media platform X, the department emphasized: “We will continue the process of deporting these criminals to ensure safety in America.”
According to Newsweek, this figure is a record high in recent years and more than twice the number of visas revoked in 2024 under former President Joe Biden's administration, where that number was 40,000.
Deputy Press Secretary of the State Department Tommy Pigott pointed to four key reasons for visa revocation: overstaying, driving under the influence, assault, and theft. Administration representatives also noted that holders of student visas and lawful permanent residents with "green cards" could be deported for supporting Palestinians and criticizing Israel's actions in the Gaza conflict, which they view as a threat to U.S. foreign policy and accuse of supporting Hamas.
Trump's return to the White House last year triggered a tightening of immigration laws, resulting in a record number of migrants being deported, including those with valid visas. The administration also implemented stricter rules for visa issuance, enhancing checks through social media and expanding selection procedures. The State Department issued guidelines requiring American diplomats abroad to be vigilant regarding any applicants who may be considered hostile to the U.S. and have a history of political activism.
