The Trump administration is reviewing the records of more than 5.5 crore US visa holders for possible revocation or deportation in a major escalation of its immigration crackdown.
The US State Department confirmed that all foreign nationals with valid visas are now subject to “continuous vetting” for signs of ineligibility, including those already in the country. If evidence emerges, their visas could be revoked and they may face deportation.
“The State Department revokes visas any time there are indications of a potential ineligibility,” a spokesperson said, citing overstays, criminal activity, threats to public safety, or links to terrorism as grounds.
The move follows Tuesday’s announcement that immigration officials will also screen applicants’ social media accounts for “anti-American” views. US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said such reviews would be incorporated into its vetting process.
“America’s benefits should not be given to those who despise the country and promote anti-American ideologies,” said USCIS spokesperson Matthew Tragesser, adding that immigration benefits “remain a privilege, not a right.”
Historically, anti-Americanism was associated with communism, but the Trump administration has broadened its focus, particularly targeting views deemed hostile to Israel. Recent guidance instructs officials to consider whether applicants “promote anti-semitic ideologies.”
No protests over Gaza
The administration has accused universities and students of anti-semitism (read anit-Israel) and support for terrorism over protests against Israel’s military actions in Gaza – allegations denied by activists.
Student visas have become a flashpoint. Hundreds of international students had their legal status revoked in April, only to see it reinstated weeks later. In May, visa interviews were temporarily halted, and by June new rules required applicants to provide access to their social media accounts. Those who refuse are treated with suspicion.
On Monday, the State Department said it had revoked 6,000 student visas since Secretary of State Marco Rubio took office in January. About 4,000 of those cases involved violations of US law, including assault, drink-driving, burglary, and alleged support for terrorism.