The US State Department has announced that it’s reviewing the records of over 55 million foreigners holding valid US visas for potential revocation or deportable violations of immigration rules. This move is part of the Trump administration’s effort to protect US national security and public safety.
According to the State Department, all US visa holders are subject to “continuous vetting” and any indication of ineligibility could lead to visa revocation and potential deportation. The review will include examining visa holders’ social media accounts, law enforcement and immigration records in their home countries, and any actionable violations of US law committed while in the United States.
“We review all available information as part of our vetting, including law enforcement or immigration records or any other information that comes to light after visa issuance indicating a potential ineligibility,” the department said. The State Department will scrutinize visa holders’ activities, including any involvement in criminal activity, threats to public safety, or terrorist activity.
This review is a significant expansion of the vetting process and aims to ensure that visa holders comply with US laws and regulations. Since President Trump took office, the administration has revoked over 6,000 student visas for overstays and violations of local, state, and federal law, with approximately 200-300 visas revoked for terrorism-related issues.