The United States Department of State has revoked more than 100,000 visas, including thousands issued to international students and specialised professionals, citing encounters with law enforcement over criminal activity.
In a statement posted on X on Monday, the department said: “The State Department has now revoked over 100,000 visas, including some 8,000 student visas and 2,500 specialised visas for individuals who had encounters with U.S. law enforcement for criminal activity.”
Officials explained that the action forms part of wider efforts to strengthen public safety and enforce immigration regulations. Emphasising its position, the department added: “We will continue to deport these thugs to keep America safe.”
The statement did not indicate when the visa revocations took place or provide specific details on the categories of offences involved. However, it underscores the federal government’s sustained clampdown on visa holders linked to criminal conduct.
The move follows earlier actions taken in August 2025, when over 6,000 international student visas were withdrawn due to breaches of U.S. law and overstaying. At the time, the department told the BBC that most of the violations involved assault, driving under the influence, burglary, and support for terrorism.
Throughout 2025, the Trump administration intensified scrutiny of international students and visa applicants. Earlier in the year, visa appointments were temporarily suspended, and when scheduling resumed in June, applicants were required to make their social media accounts public for enhanced screening.
Officials said the review would focus on profiles for “any indications of hostility toward the citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles of the United States.”
