The Trump administration has launched an unprecedented review of over 55 million foreigners holding valid US visas, aiming to identify and deport those with violations, the State Department announced on August 21, 2025. In a response to The Associated Press, the department revealed that all visa holders, including tourists, students, and workers, are subject to “continuous vetting” to detect any grounds for ineligibility.

If evidence of violations—such as overstaying visas, criminal activity, public safety threats, or ties to terrorism—is found, visas will be revoked, and individuals in the US could face deportation. “We review all available information, including law enforcement or immigration records or any other information that comes to light after visa issuance indicating a potential ineligibility,” the State Department stated.

The sweeping initiative, part of Trump’s broader immigration crackdown, has already led to over 6,000 student visa revocations since January, primarily for overstays, assault, driving under the influence, or terrorism-related issues. The process includes scouring social media, law enforcement, and immigration records, with new rules requiring visa applicants to disable privacy settings on devices during interviews. Critics, like Julia Gelatt of the Migration Policy Institute, question the efficiency of vetting millions, including those abroad with multiple-entry visas, arguing it may strain resources.

Also Read: Trump Halts Gaza Medical Visas After Outcry

The move has sparked debate, with supporters on X praising it as a bold step for national security, while others call it an overreach that could disrupt lives and deter travel. As the administration ramps up enforcement, the review signals a significant escalation in Trump’s immigration policy, raising concerns about its impact on US-foreign relations and the economy.

Also Read: Trump Pushes to End UN Peacekeeping in Lebanon