On Thursday, the State Department announced it is currently assessing over 55 million US visa holders for potential links to international attacks, which includes reviewing aspects like tenure, criminal activity, and any involvement in “terrorist activity.”
All holders of US visas, encompassing international students and tourists, will be subject to ongoing evaluations.
According to the department, a visa may be revoked if there are indications of possible ineligibility. This can include exaggerations, criminal behavior, threats to public safety, and any support for terrorist organizations.
As part of the review process, all relevant information will be considered, including details from law enforcement, immigration records, or additional data that may emerge following the visa’s issuance.
Since President Trump’s second term began, the State Department has canceled over 6,000 student visas. Reports indicate that around 4,000 of those affected had engaged in illegal activities, while another 200 to 300 withdrew their visas in connection with supporting terrorism.
The White House has specifically targeted foreign students involved in pro-Palestinian protests nationwide, labeling them as a potential national security risk. Some of these students are currently contesting their deportation.
Earlier this year, many international students retracted their information from the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, though their statuses were eventually reinstated.
The administration is also placing a strong emphasis on the apprehension and deportation of immigrants residing illegally in the U.S., which aligns with Trump’s expansive immigration policy.
A spokesperson for the State Department stated, “Since taking office, as part of the Trump administration’s dedication to ensuring US national security and public safety, the Department has revoked more than twice the number of visas, including nearly four times as many student visas compared to the same period last year.”
