WASHINGTON — Fear and uncertainty continue to spread across immigrant communities in America.
A senior US State Department official revealed that since President Donald Trump took office on January 20, the administration has revoked around 80,000 non-immigrant visas — a massive move reflecting one of the toughest immigration crackdowns in modern US history.
These revocations were tied to a wide range of alleged offenses… from drunk driving to assault and theft.
“These three crimes accounted for almost half of revocations this year,”
the official said, speaking anonymously.
A New Era of Strict Scrutiny
The administration has tightened visa screening like never before:
✅ Stricter background checks
✅ Expanded social media monitoring
✅ Tougher interviews and screenings
And the impact has been huge:
-
16,000 visas revoked for DUI cases
-
12,000 for assault
-
8,000 for theft
Student visas were not spared either.
In August, the State Department confirmed over 6,000 student visas were cancelled for overstaying or violating US laws — some involving allegations of terrorism support.
The administration also revoked at least six visas linked to social media posts about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk — posts the US deemed “threatening.”
Politics Becomes Grounds for Deportation
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said he revoked visas of “hundreds, perhaps thousands” of people involved in activities viewed as misaligned with US foreign policy.
That includes people in the US legally — even students.
Recent directives ordered American diplomats to flag applicants with:
⚠ Political activism
⚠ Anti-US sentiment
⚠ Criticism of key allies
Officials have specifically warned that visas and even green cards could be revoked for:
-
Support for Palestinians
-
Criticism of Israel
-
Advocacy the US considers “pro-Hamas”
The government claims these positions represent a security threat.
But rights groups argue it’s punishing free speech.
A Deep Chill Among Immigrants
For many, even those who followed the rules…
the message is clear:
A valid visa no longer guarantees safety.
Families now live in fear that one post, one protest, or one misunderstanding could end the life they’ve built.
With revocations continuing, thousands live in uncertainty — waiting and hoping they won’t be next.
