WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — The Trump administration has revoked over 100,000 visas in 2025, including thousands of student and specialized visas, as part of a broad crackdown on immigration, the U.S. State Department said Monday. The move comes amid increased scrutiny of foreign nationals with criminal records or law enforcement encounters. The department said the action aims to protect public safety and national security.
State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the administration canceled visas for individuals charged or convicted of crimes such as assault, theft, and driving under the influence.
“That includes revoked visas from thousands of foreign nationals charged or convicted with crimes, including assault, theft, and DUI,” Pigott said.
In total, more than 100,000 visas were revoked in 2025. Among them were roughly 8,000 student visas and 2,500 specialized visas for foreign workers. These numbers are more than double the 40,000 visas canceled in 2024, the final year of the Biden administration.
The State Department said the majority of revoked visas were for tourists and business travelers who overstayed their visas. However, thousands of students and specialized workers lost their visas because of criminal activity.
For specialized workers, about half of the revocations were linked to drunken driving arrests. Thirty percent involved assault, battery, or confinement charges. The remaining 20% were revoked for theft, child abuse, substance abuse, fraud, or embezzlement. Nearly 500 students had their visas canceled for possession or distribution of drugs. Hundreds of foreign workers also lost their visas due to alleged child abuse.
The Trump administration said it plans to continue this aggressive approach through its newly established “continuous vetting center.” The center aims to monitor visa holders after they enter the United States, ensuring they do not pose a threat to public safety.
“The Trump administration will continue to put America first and protect our nation from foreign nationals who pose a risk to public safety or national security,” Pigott said.
The crackdown has also affected legal immigration. From Dec. 15, the State Department began enhanced screening for H-1B work visas and H-4 dependent visas. These checks include reviewing social media profiles and other personal information.
Several H-1B visa interviews scheduled across India have been postponed. Many applicants who traveled for visa stamping have been left stranded for months, officials said. The State Department emphasized that U.S. visas are a privilege, not a right. Officials said all available information is used during screening and vetting to identify applicants who may threaten national security or public safety.
The revocations have raised concerns among foreign students and skilled workers. Many now face uncertainty regarding their studies and employment in the United States. Experts say the stricter measures could affect U.S. universities and companies that rely on international talent. Immigration lawyers also warn that the policy may increase administrative delays and legal challenges. Applicants are encouraged to maintain complete documentation and cooperate with visa authorities during the review process.
