The United States Department of State has nullified more than 85,000 visas across all categories within a single year, according to a CNN report published Tuesday. This figure represents a substantial increase, more than doubling the revocation count from the previous year under the Biden administration.
An anonymous State Department official disclosed that nearly half of these revocations were linked to criminal offenses, including driving under the influence, assault, and theft. A more recent, smaller batch of visa cancellations targeted individuals who allegedly celebrated the death of right-wing political activist Charlie Kirk.
Approximately 10% of the revoked visas, totaling over 8,000, belonged to international students. A significant point of contention involves students targeted for their campus activism, particularly regarding Israel’s military operations in Gaza. This action finds its basis in a January 29 executive order that authorizes measures against “alien students” perceived as antisemitic. Notable cases include students like Ranjani Srinivasan and Rumeysa Ozturk, who faced deportation proceedings for their pro-Palestine advocacy. Critics argue such deportations violate First Amendment rights, and many students have successfully contested these actions in legal challenges.
The scope of scrutiny extends beyond current visa holders. Since June, prospective student visa applicants have reported intensified vetting of their political views. Broader immigration policy shifts include plans for enhanced screening of H1-B visa holders, re-interviewing refugees admitted under the previous administration, and expanding the list of nations subject to travel bans. Furthermore, the administration has increased H-1B visa fees to deter foreign nationals seeking U.S. employment.
These developments align with a central pillar of President Trump’s agenda, which has consistently focused on restricting immigration. Key policies include the refinement of the so-called Muslim Ban, a sharp reduction in refugee admissions, a significant drop in border entries, and accelerated deportation efforts targeting undocumented immigrants. The administration has also attempted to revoke Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nationals from countries like Afghanistan and Syria, who were originally granted reprieve due to civil unrest or natural disasters.
The State Department did not respond to a request for comment from Middle East Eye by the time of publication.