US Revokes Over 100,000 Visas Since President Donald Trump’s Return to Office

The United States has revoked more than 100,000 visas since President Donald Trump returned to office

The United States government has revoked more than 100,000 visas since President Donald Trump returned to office, marking one of the most aggressive immigration enforcement drives in modern American history. According to the US State Department, the figure represents a record number of visa cancellations within a single year, underscoring the administration’s renewed commitment to stricter border control and national security policies. The announcement, made public on Monday, has sparked intense debate both within the United States and internationally, especially among migrant communities, students, foreign workers, and human rights advocates. It also reflects a major shift from the immigration approach of the previous administration.

Speaking on behalf of the State Department, spokesperson Tommy Pigott made it clear that immigration enforcement remains a top priority for the Trump administration.

“The Trump administration has no higher priority than protecting American citizens and upholding American sovereignty,” Pigott stated.

This position aligns with President Donald Trump’s long-standing political ideology, which emphasizes border security, immigration restrictions, and strict enforcement of US laws. During his campaign and return to office, Trump promised to reverse what he described as “weak immigration policies” under the previous government.

The State Department revealed that the number of visas revoked since Trump’s second inauguration on January 20, 2025, is two and a half times higher than the total number revoked in 2024, when Joe Biden was President of the United States. This sharp increase highlights a dramatic policy reversal. While the Biden administration focused more on humanitarian considerations and selective enforcement, the Trump administration has adopted a zero-tolerance approach, expanding the scope and speed of visa reviews and cancellations. Analysts say the numbers reflect not only policy intent but also operational changes within immigration agencies, including increased manpower, faster screening processes, and broader interpretation of enforcement laws.

According to official data, thousands of visas were revoked due to criminal activities. The State Department clarified that these crimes range from serious offenses such as assault to what some may consider minor but still legally significant violations, including drunk driving (DUI). US authorities maintain that visa holders are expected to obey American laws at all times and that any criminal conviction or serious allegation can trigger visa cancellation. Immigration experts warn that even non-violent offenses can now lead to severe consequences under the current administration’s strict enforcement framework.

One of the most controversial aspects of the visa revocations involves international students, particularly those linked to political protests. The State Department confirmed that about 8,000 revoked visas were issued to students, many of whom were accused of participating in protests deemed contrary to US foreign policy interests. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has openly defended these actions, highlighting his role in revoking visas from foreign students who participated in anti-Israel demonstrations on American university campuses. Rubio argued that the United States has the legal right to deny entry or residency to non-citizens whose actions conflict with national interests.

To justify some of the student visa cancellations, Secretary Rubio relied on a McCarthy-era law, a Cold War-era provision that allows the US government to block or revoke visas of foreigners considered hostile to American foreign policy objectives. However, the use of this law has drawn criticism from civil liberties groups, who argue that it is outdated and overly broad. In several high-profile cases, affected students challenged deportation orders in US courts. While some of these legal challenges were successful, many others are still pending, creating uncertainty for thousands of international students currently studying in the United States.

Beyond revocations, the Trump administration has significantly tightened visa vetting procedures. One of the most notable changes is the expansion of social media screening for visa applicants and holders.
Under the new rules, immigration officers are authorized to review online posts, comments, likes, and shared content across multiple platforms to assess applicants’ political views, affiliations, and potential security risks. Supporters argue that social media screening is necessary in the digital age to identify threats early. Critics, however, warn that it could infringe on freedom of expression and discourage open dialogue.

The visa revocations are not isolated actions. They form part of a broader and more aggressive mass deportation campaign launched by the Trump administration shortly after returning to office.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported last month that:

• Over 605,000 people have been formally deported
• Approximately 2.5 million individuals left the United States voluntarily

This enforcement drive has been carried out through a surge in federal immigration agents, expanded detention facilities, and faster deportation proceedings.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Border Patrol, and other federal agencies have increased operations nationwide, particularly in major cities, border states, and regions with large undocumented populations. Raids, workplace inspections, and targeted arrests have become more frequent, raising fear among immigrant communities but earning praise from supporters who believe strict enforcement is long overdue.

The mass visa revocations and deportations have sparked concerns about potential economic consequences. Sectors such as technology, healthcare, agriculture, and education rely heavily on foreign workers and students. University administrators have warned that reduced international enrollment could affect research funding and campus diversity. Meanwhile, business groups fear labor shortages and disruptions to supply chains. On the other hand, supporters argue that the policies will create more opportunities for American workers and reduce strain on public resources.

Several foreign governments have quietly expressed concern over the scale of visa cancellations, particularly those affecting students and skilled professionals. Diplomatic sources say some countries are reviewing travel advisories for citizens planning to study or work in the United States, while others are seeking clarification through diplomatic channels.
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The revocation of over 100,000 visas since President Donald Trump’s return to office marks a defining moment in US immigration policy. It reflects a firm commitment to enforcement, sovereignty, and national security, while also raising complex legal, economic, and humanitarian questions. As the Trump administration continues its aggressive stance, the long-term impact on America’s global image, economy, and immigrant communities remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that immigration has once again become a central and defining issue in US governance.


By Primelineinfo