By Micah Jonah
January 13, 2026
The United States has revoked more than 100,000 visas since President Donald Trump returned to office, marking a sharp escalation in his administration’s hardline immigration policy, according to the US State Department.
In a statement released on Monday, the department said visa revocations have more than doubled, with about 8000 students and 2500 specialised workers affected. Officials said most of the cancellations were linked to encounters with US law enforcement for alleged criminal activity, although it remains unclear how many resulted in formal charges.
The increase reflects the broader immigration crackdown launched after Trump’s return to the White House. The administration claims it has overseen more than 2.5 million voluntary departures and deportations, describing the figure as a record achievement.
However, the policy has drawn criticism after reports showed that some deported individuals held valid visas, raising concerns over due process and human rights.
US authorities have also tightened visa screening rules, including stricter social media checks and expanded background vetting. The State Department said it would continue revoking visas to protect national security.
Deputy State Department spokesperson, Tommy Pigott said the leading reasons for visa withdrawals were overstays, driving under the influence, assault and theft, adding that the figure represents a 150 percent increase compared to 2024.
The department has also launched a Continuous Vetting Center to monitor foreign nationals already in the country and swiftly revoke visas of those deemed a threat.
Trump, who was sworn in for a second term on January 20, 2025, had campaigned on a promise to implement the largest deportation programme in US history. Critics argue the policy has targeted both criminals and non criminals, while civil rights groups have warned that some visa revocations appear linked to political views and free speech.
Recent cases involving student activists and online political expression have further fueled debate over whether the crackdown violates constitutional protections.
Public anger has also grown over the aggressive enforcement approach, with protests erupting in several cities following reports of deaths and injuries during immigration operations.
