The US government has confirmed that more than 100,000 visas were revoked in 2025, marking the highest number of cancellations in a single year. This includes around 8,000 visas issued to international students.
Reason Given by the US Government
According to the US State Department, the visas were revoked for individuals who had encounters with US law enforcement. Officials cited alleged involvement in crimes such as assault, theft, and driving under the influence, stating that the action was taken to protect public safety.
Concerns and Criticism
Immigration advocates and legal experts have raised serious concerns, noting that many affected visa holders were never convicted or formally charged with any crime. Reports suggest that names were flagged through federal crime databases, which may include incomplete or inaccurate records.
Impact on International Students
International students have been specifically highlighted in the enforcement actions. Approximately 8,000 student visas were revoked, increasing uncertainty for current and prospective students. The administration has made international students a central focus of its broader immigration crackdown.
Legal Ruling on Student Deportations
In September 2025, a US federal judge ruled that deporting international students based on political activism, including pro-Palestinian advocacy, was unconstitutional. The court stated that such policies violated the First Amendment and restricted freedom of speech.
Continuous Vetting and Stricter Monitoring
The US State Department has introduced a “Continuous Vetting Center”, meaning visa holders are monitored even after entering the country. This allows authorities to revoke visas at any time if a person is considered a potential risk.
Tougher Visa Policies Overall
Beyond revocations, the US has also:
- Increased social media screening for visa applicants
- Imposed a travel ban affecting citizens from around 40 countries
- Raised some H-1B visa fees to up to $100,000
- Modified visa selection to favor higher-income applicants
What This Means for Future Students
These developments indicate a more restrictive and unpredictable visa environment. International students are being advised to carefully assess risks and consider alternative study destinations with more stable immigration policies.
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