US Shatters Record with Over 100,000 Visa Revocations in 2025
The United States State Department made a dramatic move in 2025. It revoked more than 100,000 visas. This number marks the highest annual total ever recorded. The figure more than doubles the roughly 40,000 revocations reported in the previous year, 2024.
Executive Order Drives Sharp Increase
Officials point to a clear reason for the surge. A January 2025 executive order signed by President Donald Trump triggered the increase. The order reinstated stricter foreign-vetting rules. It also expanded checks that can happen after a visa is issued. These post-issuance reviews now play a major role.
The revocations affected several visa categories. Officials provided specific numbers for some groups. About 8,000 student visas faced cancellation. Another 2,500 specialised work visas were also revoked.
Criminal Activity and Enhanced Screening Lead to Cancellations
What led to these cancellations? A State Department spokesperson explained the reasons. Many student and worker visas were revoked following arrests or criminal charges. Other visas were cancelled after reviews under new, enhanced screening procedures.
For specialised workers, the cited offences covered a range of illegal activities. These included driving under the influence, assault, theft, fraud, and drug-related cases. The majority of overall revocations, however, involved business and tourist visas. Overstays were a particular focus in these categories.
New "Continuous Vetting" System Expands Scrutiny
The surge coincides with the rollout of a new system called "continuous vetting." This programme allows authorities to review visa holders even after they enter the United States. It represents a significant expansion of government oversight.
In August 2025, the department revealed the scale of this ongoing review. It said it was examining the status of around 55 million foreign nationals who hold valid US visas. This massive undertaking shows the breadth of the new enforcement drive.
Return of the "Public Charge" Rule
The enforcement efforts include another key policy. Authorities have renewed use of the "public charge" rule. This rule allows visas to be denied or revoked based on a specific assessment.
Officials look at whether applicants are likely to rely on public benefits. They consider several factors during this assessment. These factors include the applicant's health, age, financial resources, and English language proficiency.
Official Goals and Public Reaction
US officials state the policy aims to strengthen public safety and national security. They emphasize that reviews and revocations will continue under the current framework. Additional reviews are expected to continue into 2026 as the expanded vetting measures remain in place.
The scale of the cancellations has not gone unnoticed. Universities, employers, and immigration groups have all taken note. These groups have raised serious concerns. They question the due process afforded to visa holders. They also worry about the impact on international students and skilled workers.
Earlier student visa revocations in 2025 already prompted legal challenges. They also led to calls for clearer guidance from the government. The debate over these policies is likely to continue as enforcement moves forward.
