The [United States](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States) government has withdrawn over 300,000 visas from foreign nationals, asserting the action is part of a heightened effort to remove people suspected of criminal activity, immigration violations and other offences. The cancellations were disclosed by the [Department of State](https://www.state.gov/) on Tuesday, which said the current administration is revoking visas faster than any prior U.S. government.
Key figures from the State Department reveal that the majority of the revoked visas relate to criminal conduct, public‑safety concerns, fraud, misrepresentation or evidence that the holders no longer meet entry requirements. More than 4,000 of the cancellations involve birth‑tourism cases, where individuals travel to the U.S. to give birth.
- Assault‑related offences account for 25 % of the revocations.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs makes up 22 %.
- Theft and drug‑related offences each represent 7 % of the total.
"We are taking, and will continue to take, action to keep our borders, and our nation, secure," the State Department statement read.
What prompted the surge in visa cancellations?
The department explained that the crackdown focuses on foreign nationals who have broken U.S. laws, committed fraud or pose national‑security threats. Spokesperson Tommy Pigott emphasized a "zero tolerance" stance toward visa holders who violate the law, commit fraud or undermine security, posting the comment on the social platform X.
How does this compare with earlier figures?
The latest tally surpasses the 175,000 visas revoked in August and the more than 100,000 cancellations reported in January, which at the time were described as a record.
Background context
Visa revocations are a tool used by the U.S. government to enforce immigration policy and protect public safety. Under the previous administration, revocation numbers were considerably lower, reflecting a different enforcement philosophy. The current approach aligns with broader immigration reforms championed by former President [Donald Trump](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Trump), who advocated stricter border controls and tighter vetting of visa applicants.
The State Department continues to monitor applications and will act against any individual deemed ineligible under U.S. immigration law.