The Trump administration has launched a sweeping review of more than 55 million foreigners holding valid U.S. visas, aiming to identify vi%lations that could lead to visa revocations and deportations.
In a statement to the Associated Press on Thursday, the State Department said all visa holders are now subject to “continuous vetting” to determine if they remain eligible to enter or stay in the United States. Indicators under review include overstaying authorized periods, criminal activity, thre@ts to public safety, or links to terr%rism.
“If new information suggests ineligibility, the visa will be revoked, and those already in the U.S. could face deportation,” the department said, noting that checks extend to law enforcement and immigration records, as well as social media activity.
The administration has already revoked more than twice as many visas since President Trump took office compared to the same period last year—nearly quadrupling the number of student visas canceled. Initially focused on students involved in pro-Palestinian or anti-Israel activity, the vetting program has now broadened to cover all visa categories.
Most foreign nationals require visas to study, work, or reside in the U.S., except citizens of 40 countries under the Visa Waiver Program, who can enter for short stays without applying. Citizens of countries such as China, India, Russia, Indonesia, and most of Africa remain subject to the visa system and, under the new policy, increased scrutiny.
