President Donald Trump’s administration cancels tens of thousands of non-immigrant visas citing criminal, political, and security concerns in sweeping action.
The United States has revoked 80,000 non-immigrant visas since January 20, 2025, in what officials describe as a decisive step to tighten national security and uphold immigration laws. The move affects tourists, students, and temporary workers whose activities were linked to crimes, political behavior, or potential security threats.
In a statement, the U.S. Department of State said the decision fulfills a key commitment by President Donald Trump’s administration to “put the safety and interests of the American people first.” Officials said the action was part of a broader strategy to strengthen border control and restore “integrity” to the U.S. visa system.
According to the State Department, a significant portion of the cancellations stemmed from criminal activity. Around 16,000 individuals lost their visas for driving under the influence, 12,000 for assault, and 8,000 for theft. Others were cited for terrorism-related suspicions, visa overstays, or posing public safety threats.
The move reflects the administration’s growing reliance on visa revocation as a tool for political and security enforcement. Since returning to office, President Trump has expanded vetting procedures, requiring social media reviews and closer scrutiny of applicants’ political affiliations.
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Earlier this year, the State Department revoked over 6,000 student visas for violating U.S. laws or alleged links to extremist groups. A smaller number were canceled for “supporting terrorism,” officials confirmed.
Last month, authorities also revoked several visas after users posted online comments celebrating the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said hundreds—and possibly thousands—of additional visas have been canceled due to activities deemed inconsistent with U.S. foreign-policy goals. Diplomatic cables reportedly instructed U.S. embassies worldwide to monitor applicants for anti-American activism or criticism of U.S. allies, including Israel.
Officials argued that certain political expressions, particularly those perceived as sympathetic to Hamas, pose a “foreign-policy risk.”
While supporters hail the move as a long-overdue crackdown on security and ideological threats, civil-rights groups warn it could amount to political discrimination and chill free speech among foreign nationals.
The administration maintains that the sweeping revocations demonstrate its resolve to safeguard national interests while ensuring that entry into the United States remains “a privilege, not a right.”