The U.S. State Department has revoked more than 175,000 visas during President Donald Trump's administration, according to a statement from the department. The cancellations are attributed to various reasons including violations of visa terms, criminal activity, threats against U.S. citizens, fraud, abuse of the immigration system, and endangering national security.
The majority of these revocations were prompted by law enforcement encounters for a range of criminal offenses. Driving under the influence (DUI) was cited as a primary criminal offense leading to visa revocation, alongside assault, theft, and drug crimes. Other significant causes for visa cancellation included reckless driving, sexual assault, child abuse, fraud, embezzlement, and other criminal activities.
The department highlighted specific instances, including the revocation of visas for foreign nationals charged with serious crimes such as felony rape, sexual battery, kidnapping, human trafficking, and the sexual exploitation of a minor. In one case, a U.S. embassy in North Africa revoked over 100 visas for individuals engaging in "birth tourism," where parents entered the U.S. primarily to give birth and obtain U.S. citizenship for their children.
"Under President Trump and Secretary Rubio’s leadership, the State Department will continue to identify, investigate, and revoke the visas of foreign nationals who threaten the safety of the American people," the department stated. "A U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right. The Department remains committed to using every tool available to protect our communities from those who abuse it."