Trump Administration Revokes Over 175,000 Foreign Visas Amid Criminal Activity, Fraud

The U.S. Department of State announced on Monday that it has revoked more than 175,000 visas held by foreign nationals since President Donald Trump took office. The department attributed the cancellations to a range of grounds, including criminal activity, breaches of visa conditions, fraud, incitement to violence, and additional threats to national security.

Visa Cancellations Linked to Law Enforcement Encounters

According to a fact sheet released by the department, the majority of these visa revocations followed interactions with law enforcement agencies tied to criminal behavior. Specific offenses cited include assault, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, theft, drug-related crimes, reckless driving, sexual assault, child abuse, fraud, and embezzlement.

State Department’s Ongoing Screening Mandate

The State Department stated that the revocations resulted from continuous vetting efforts designed to ensure visa holders comply with the terms of their admission and do not endanger U.S. citizens. It affirmed the Trump administration’s ongoing commitment to identifying and investigating foreign nationals deemed to pose a threat to U.S. safety or national security.

“A Privilege, Not a Right”

The department underscored its position on visa issuance, declaring: “A U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right.” It confirmed its intention to continue exercising available legal authorities to cancel visas for individuals who misuse this privilege.

An American judge has permitted the termination of Temporary Protected Status for citizens of South Sudan.