State Department Revokes 175,000 Visas for Criminal Activity

The State Department announced Monday it has revoked more than 175,000 visas since President Trump began his second term. The department attributed the revocations to criminal activity, fraud, national security threats, and immigration violations.

• Assault, DUI, theft, and drug crimes were the leading causes of revocation.
• 100+ visas were revoked at a North Africa embassy for birth tourism schemes.
• Citizens from 50 countries now must post bonds of up to $20,000 to apply for a visa.
• A new rule limits international student stays to four years without federal approval.

Why it matters: The revocations affect foreign nationals already inside the U.S. on legal visas — a population distinct from those who entered without authorization. Losing a visa can trigger removal proceedings and a bar on future entry.

• The State Department says it targets holders who commit crimes or endanger national security.

How 32 sources split on this story

Where they split: Coverage agrees on the numbers but divides on whether the scope and criteria represent necessary enforcement or an unusually broad use of revocation authority.

What’s next: The State Department says reviews and revocations will continue under Secretary Rubio.

• The birth tourism revocations are linked to a Supreme Court fight over birthright citizenship.
• How does the 175,000 figure compare to visa revocation rates under prior administrations?
• What share of those whose visas were revoked have been formally removed from the country?
• How many revocations involved charges rather than convictions?