U.S. Revokes Over 6,000 Student Visas Amid Heightened Enforcement

India-West News Desk

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. State Department confirmed on August 18 that more than 6,000 student visas have been revoked so far this year as part of an ongoing crackdown by the Trump administration on foreign students accused of legal violations.

The majority of revocations stem from overstaying visa expiration dates or committing crimes, including assault, driving under the influence, and burglary. Between 200 and 300 cases involved alleged support for terrorism under provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

This enforcement effort coincides with broader administration policies targeting universities and student visas, particularly focusing on international students who participated in protests against the war in Gaza. Officials have scrutinized these students for potential antisemitic behavior and ties to terrorism.

In fiscal year 2024, roughly 400,000 student visas were issued. An analysis by NAFSA: Association of International Educators and JB International projects a 30–40 percent decline in new international student enrollment, which could contribute to a 15 percent drop in overall enrollment this fall. NAFSA estimates that the decline may cost local economies $7 billion in spending and result in more than 60,000 lost jobs.

State Department directives now require U.S. embassies and consulates to vet student visa applicants for “hostile attitudes” toward American citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles. Applicants are being asked to make social media profiles publicly accessible, with limited online visibility potentially interpreted as an attempt to conceal activity.