Trump administration launches massive review of 55 million US visa holders

The Trump administration announced on August 21 that it is reviewing the records of more than 55 million valid U.S. visa holders as part of an intensified vetting effort that could lead to revocations and deportations for those found in violation of visa terms.

In a written response to a US media inquiry, the State Department said all visa holders — including tourists, students, and temporary workers — are now under continuous monitoring for signs of ineligibility, such as overstaying permitted periods, criminal activity, threats to public safety, or links to terrorism. If a violation is detected, visas will be revoked, and individuals in the U.S. could face deportation.

Officials confirmed that the expanded scrutiny, which now includes social media checks and a full review of law enforcement and immigration records, represents a significant broadening of earlier efforts that had mainly targeted students and exchange visitors. Since Trump’s return to office, the State Department has revoked more than twice as many visas compared to the same period last year, including nearly four times as many student visas.

Separately, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on August 21 that the U.S. has stopped issuing worker visas for commercial truck drivers, citing safety concerns and the impact on American jobs. The move follows stricter enforcement of English proficiency requirements for drivers and will remain in place while the department reviews its screening protocols.

Critics, including experts such as Edward Alden of the Council on Foreign Relations, warned that these policies could have broad economic consequences by discouraging U.S. employers, including universities and hospitals, from hiring foreign workers.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. hosts 12.8 million green-card holders and 3.6 million people on temporary visas, while millions more hold multiple-entry tourist visas, many residing abroad.

The administration emphasised that these measures are aimed at safeguarding national security and public safety, but analysts note the sweeping reviews could disrupt the lives of millions of foreign nationals already vetted and approved to enter or remain in the country.

By Tamilla Hasanova