The U.S. government has revoked more than 100,000 visas over the past year of President Donald Trump’s second term, according to an official statement by the U.S. State Department.
The revocations include approximately 8,000 student visas and 2,500 specialized work permits, targeting foreign nationals with criminal records or legal violations.
State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the move forms part of a broad effort to protect American citizens and uphold U.S. sovereignty, adding:
“We will continue to deport these thugs to keep America safe.”
Crimes cited for the visa cancellations include assault and drunk driving, among others. The revocation campaign has been accompanied by a surge of federal agents carrying out deportations.
The Trump administration has also tightened visa vetting, now including screening of applicants’ social media activity. This follows the administration’s anti-migrant platform, which President Trump ran on for his second term starting January 20, 2025.
Data from the Department of Homeland Security shows that the administration has deported over 605,000 people, while another 2.5 million remain in the U.S. without formal status.
Separately, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the revocation of visas for certain student protesters, citing U.S. laws that allow blocking entry for foreigners whose actions conflict with American foreign policy.
