US Visa Revocations Surge: Over 100,000 Visas Canceled Amid Immigration Crackdown

In a significant move, the US has revoked over 100,000 visas in 2025, including around 8,000 student visas, as part of a broader immigration crackdown targeting criminal activities. The State Department emphasizes its commitment to deporting individuals posing risks to public safety. This surge in visa cancellations marks a stark increase compared to previous years, with many revocations linked to serious criminal charges. Enhanced screening measures for visa applicants, including social media checks, have also been implemented, leaving many applicants in limbo. Discover the full details of this immigration policy shift and its implications.

By Ambika Singh Jan 13, 2026, 10:23 IST

Significant Visa Revocations in 2025

New York/Washington: In a sweeping move against immigration, the United States has annulled more than 100,000 visas in 2025, which includes approximately 8,000 student visas, as part of its initiative to address criminal activities.

The State Department announced on social media, "We will persist in deporting these offenders to ensure the safety of America."

According to the department, over 100,000 visas have been revoked, comprising around 8,000 student visas and 2,500 specialized visas linked to individuals who faced legal issues in the US.

Tommy Pigott, Principal Deputy Spokesperson for the State Department, noted that the Trump administration has rescinded over 100,000 visas within a year.

This includes visas from numerous foreign nationals charged or convicted of crimes such as assault, theft, and DUI.

A report from Fox News highlighted that the number of visa cancellations in 2025 has more than doubled compared to the 40,000 visas revoked in 2024, the last year of the previous administration.

The majority of the 2025 revocations were for business and tourist travelers who overstayed their visas, but 8,000 students and 2,500 specialized visa holders lost their documents due to criminal encounters.

Among specialized workers, half of the visa revocations were due to DUI arrests, while 30% were related to assault or battery charges, and the remaining 20% involved theft, child abuse, substance abuse, and fraud.

The report also indicated that nearly 500 students had their visas revoked for drug possession and distribution, with many foreign workers losing their visas for suspected child abuse.

Pigott stated that the administration would maintain its "aggressive" enforcement strategy through a new "continuous vetting center."

"The Trump administration will prioritize America and safeguard our nation from foreign nationals who may threaten public safety or national security," he added.

The administration has intensified its crackdown on both illegal and legal immigration, tightening regulations for those seeking entry into the US for work or study.

Starting December 15, the State Department initiated enhanced screening for H-1B and dependent H-4 visa applicants, including social media profile checks. Consequently, many H-1B visa interviews scheduled in India have been postponed, leaving numerous applicants stranded for months.

The State Department has consistently emphasized that obtaining a US visa is a privilege, not a right, and utilizes all available information during the vetting process to identify applicants who may pose a risk to national security or public safety.