The United States Department of State has revoked more than 100,000 visas, including thousands issued to international students and specialised professionals, as part of a sweeping enforcement action linked to criminal activity.
In a statement posted on X on Monday, the department disclosed that about 8,000 student visas and 2,500 specialised visas were among those withdrawn. According to the State Department, the affected individuals had encounters with U.S. law enforcement over criminal-related issues.
“The State Department has now revoked over 100,000 visas,” the post read, adding that the move aligns with broader efforts to strengthen public safety and enforce immigration laws. The department further stressed its tough stance, declaring that it would continue deporting offenders to keep the country safe.
While officials did not provide details on the exact timeline of the revocations or the specific offences involved, the announcement signals an intensified crackdown on visa holders linked to criminal conduct.
The development follows earlier actions taken by the U.S. government against international students. In August 2025, the State Department confirmed the revocation of more than 6,000 student visas due to violations of U.S. laws and visa overstays. Authorities said most of those cases involved offences such as assault, driving under the influence, burglary and, in some instances, support for terrorism.
Earlier in 2025, visa appointment scheduling for international students was temporarily suspended. When processing resumed in June, applicants were required to make their social media accounts publicly accessible to allow for enhanced background checks. Officials said the reviews would focus on identifying any signs of hostility toward U.S. citizens, institutions, culture or founding principles.
The latest revocations underscore the U.S. government’s continued emphasis on stricter immigration enforcement and security screening for foreign nationals.
