Over 1 Lakh Visas Revoked Under Trump’s Vetting Policy, 8,000 Belong to Students

Over 1 Lakh Visas, Including 8,000 Student Permits, Cancelled Under Trump’s Immigration Crackdown.

In 2025, the US government revoked more than 100,000 visas, including roughly 8,000 student permits, as part of a sweeping crackdown targeting foreign nationals with criminal records or security concerns. The number of cancellations is more than double the roughly 40,000 visas revoked in 2024, the final year of President Joe Biden’s administration.

The State Department confirmed that the revocations also affected around 2,500 specialised work visas linked to past criminal activity, ranging from assault, theft, and child abuse to drug offences, fraud, and embezzlement.

“We will continue to deport these individuals to keep America safe,” the department said in a post on X.

Nearly 500 students lost their visas due to drug possession or distribution, and hundreds of foreign workers were stripped of visas over child abuse allegations. Most cancellations involved tourists and business visitors who overstayed their visas, while half of the specialised work visa revocations were linked to drink-driving arrests.

Trump Administration Tightens Vetting

The surge follows a day-one executive order by President Trump, tightening the vetting process for all foreign nationals. In August 2025, the administration launched a review of 55 million visa holders, establishing a “continuous vetting centre” to monitor visa holders for potential criminal or security risks.

“The Trump administration remains committed to protecting national security and public safety by scrutinising foreign nationals,” said Tommy Piggott, State Department principal deputy spokesperson.

The government has also tightened rules under the public charge policy, allowing officials to deny visas to applicants likely to rely on public benefits.

Since December 15, 2025, H-1B and H-4 visa applicants have faced enhanced screening, including social media checks. This has delayed interviews and left many applicants in India stranded while awaiting visa stamping.