Trump administration revokes over 300,000 visas in first year, citing crime and fraud

A State Department official disclosed that the Trump administration has nullified more than 300,000 visas since the 47th president began his term last year, targeting holders involved in criminal activity, threats to public safety, fraud or misrepresentation. Among those affected, at least 4,000 visas were withdrawn from persons accused of facilitating birth-tourism. Spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the revocation rate surpasses any previous U.S. administration and underscored a zero-tolerance policy toward illegal behavior and national-security risks.

The department previously reported 250,000 cancellations as of January 2025, and the pace has quickened in 2026 after 23,000 cases were processed in the prior year. In 2025, assaults accounted for a quarter of the removals, while driving under the influence made up 22%, theft 7% and substance-abuse offenses another 7%. Nationalities of the affected visa holders have not been disclosed.