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The State Department has revoked more than 80,000 nonimmigrant visas so far this year, more than double the number canceled in the previous year. The agency attributes the increase to a more stringent enforcement of visa rules and conditions. Newsweek has contacted the State Department for comment via contact form outside office hours. Why It Matters President Donald Trump's plans to conduct widespread deportations have sparked criticism after reports emerged that individuals holding valid visas were being swept up in the raids. The administration has detained and revoked the visas of several critics, including foreign students and temporary workers, raising concerns among immigrant advocates and legal experts. Critics argue that the moves go beyond targeting individuals with criminal records or overstays, instead creating fear among immigrant communities. The policy has sparked debate over the balance between immigration enforcement and the protection of legal residents, with opponents warning it could damage the United States' reputation as a destination for international talent and education. What To Know Among the revocations by the State Department, about 8,000 were student visas, the Washington Examiner reported. The State Department said on X that criminal convictions accounted for almost half of all visa revocations, including more than 16,000 for DUIs, more than 12,000 for assault and more than 8,000 for theft. Newsweek has requested a complete, detailed breakdown of the types of visas and the reasons for their revocation. The Trump administration has framed the increase in revocations as part of a broader effort to protect American citizens and uphold the integrity of the visa system. Officials say the policy applies to a range of violations, from criminal behavior to conduct deemed incompatible with visa requirements—including certain social media activity and actions supporting terrorist organizations. The administration has targeted several pro-Palestine protesters with visa revocations. Last month, the State Department released information detailing several foreign nationals whose visas were canceled over statements made about conservative commentator Charlie Kirk following his killing in September. The State Department may cancel a visa for reasons such as overstays, criminal activity, threats to public safety, involvement in terrorist activity or providing support to a designated terrorist organization. Officials have broadly interpreted support for terrorism to include criticism of the U.S.'s backing of Israel. Since Trump returned to the White House in January, the administration has monitored visa holders' social media posts to identify foreign nationals who could face visa revocation. What People Are Saying The State Department wrote on X: "Promises made, promises kept. @POTUS and @SecRubio will always put the safety and interests of the American people first." Tommy Pigott, a spokesperson for the department, wrote on X: "The Trump Administration will not hesitate to revoke visas from foreigners who undermine our laws or threaten our national security." What Happens Next More visa revocations are expected in the coming months as officials have signaled that the efforts to review and cancel visas remain ongoing amid the administration's crackdown on immigration.
