- State Department announced earlier this month that it had revoked more than 175,000 visas since President Trump began his second term, marking a significant jump from December.
- The State Department issued a directive instructing consular officers to ask nonimmigrant visa applicants two questions about harm or mistreatment in their country of origin or residence.
- The administration is now planning to revoke up to 200,000 visas from asylum seekers, according to a report.
- The planned action targets foreigners who came to the US on temporary visas for reasons like tourism, education or business and then sought asylum to remain long term.
- Visa applicants must answer 'no' to both questions for the consular officer to continue with visa issuance, according to the cable sent to all embassies and consulates.
- Obtaining a visa to seek asylum is fraud and grounds for visa revocation, as these visas are issued with the understanding that holders intend to return home.
The Trump administration's latest move to revoke visas could affect up to 200,000 foreigners who entered the U.S. on temporary visas and later sought asylum.4
State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott stated that the revocations will occur on a rolling basis, not all at once.12
The directive targets individuals who misused their temporary visas, which are intended for those who plan to return home.
Pigott emphasized, “Obtaining a visa in order to seek asylum is fraud — which is grounds for visa revocation.”6
The State Department has instructed consular officers to ask visa applicants two critical questions regarding their safety upon returning to their home countries.5
If applicants answer “no” to both questions, they may proceed with the visa issuance.
This policy marks a significant increase in visa revocations, with over 175,000 visas revoked since President Trump began his second term, indicating a stricter approach to immigration enforcement.
“The State Department has already revoked more than 175,000 visas since President Trump began his second term, a significant jump from December. A source familiar with the matter said the revocations would not be done "in one fell swoop," and consular officers are now required to ask applicants two questions about harm or mistreatment.”
