US: In a security drive, the revokes a record 100,000 visas

US: As part of its efforts to bolster border controls and public safety, the Trump administration has revoked over 100,000 foreign nationals’ visas in less than a year, setting a record level of enforcement, according to the US State Department.

“Protecting American citizens and preserving American sovereignty are the top priorities of the Trump administration,” said Tommy Pigott, the State Department’s Principal Deputy Spokesperson.

According to Pigott, the scope of the action is a significant increase over prior years.

“The State Department revoked over 100,000 foreign national visas in less than a year, setting a new record and increasing revocations by more than 150% since 2024,” he stated.

The statement said that foreign people who had been charged or found guilty of a variety of crimes were the subject of the visa cancellations.

“Thousands of foreign nationals accused or found guilty of crimes like assault, theft, and drunk driving had their visas revoked by the State Department,” Pigott said.

The government attributed the rise in revocations on President Donald Trump’s improved screening and monitoring procedures.

Pigott said, “The State Department’s recently established Continuous Vetting Center works to ensure that all foreign nationals on American soil comply with our laws – and that the visas of those who pose a threat to American citizens are swiftly revoked.”

Instead of depending just on screening at the time of application or admission, the Continuous Vetting Center is intended to monitor visa holders after they have arrived in the United States. When visa holders are accused of or found guilty of crimes, officials claim the system enables them to act more swiftly.

According to Pigott, the program is part of the administration’s larger national security strategy.

“The Trump administration will continue to prioritize America and defend our country against foreigners who endanger national security or public safety,” he said.

The statement did not, however, break down the number of canceled visas by nation or indicate the proportion of temporary tourists, students, or long-term residents involved.

The action was taken in the midst of heated discussions in the US over border security, immigration enforcement, and striking a balance between legal immigration routes and national security. The administration’s international and domestic policy agenda now centers on visa rules.

The US government has the power to revoke foreign citizens’ visas if they are judged ineligible or present a security or public safety risk.