Trump administration revokes over 6,000 student visas over law violations
The Trump administration has revoked more than 6,000 student visas, citing reasons including visa overstays and criminal activity, with a small portion linked to "terrorism support," according to a State Department official.
- The Trump administration has revoked over 6,000 student visas as part of a broader tightening of immigration and visa regulations.
- Approximately 4,000 of the visas were cancelled due to criminal violations, including assault, drunk driving, and burglary.
- Between 200 and 300 visas were revoked for terrorism-related activities, in line with State Department rules.
- Other visas were revoked for involvement in activities considered contrary to U.S. foreign policy, including for students supporting Palestinian causes.
This action, which was first reported by Fox Digital, is part of a broader push by the administration to tighten visa regulations under its immigration policy. It includes expanded screening processes and more stringent social media checks.
The State Department has directed US diplomats to remain vigilant, particularly concerning applicants with a history of political activism or those who may pose a threat to the United States.
Out of the total revocations, approximately 4,000 visas were cancelled due to criminal violations such as assault, while other offences included drunk driving and burglary.
Between 200 and 300 visas were revoked on grounds of terrorism-related activities, in line with State Department rules that specify visa ineligibility for those linked to terrorist groups.
Although the official did not identify the specific groups involved, the Trump administration’s measures come amid growing tensions over US foreign policy, particularly regarding the Gaza conflict.
The administration has also clashed with American universities, accusing them of harbouring antisemitic views following protests advocating Palestinian rights.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that numerous visas, including those of students, have been revoked for involvement in activities contrary to US foreign policy.
The administration has also warned that foreign nationals, including students and green card holders, supporting Palestinian causes or criticising Israel’s actions could face deportation, framing their actions as a risk to US interests.
Critics argue these actions violate the constitutional right to free speech and are seen by many as an overreach in curbing dissent.
Reuters
