United States cancels more than 175,000 visas issued to foreign nationals

Tuesday 11 August 2026 - 10:15

By: Azzat Manal

United States cancels more than 175,000 visas issued to foreign nationals

The United States Department of State has cancelled more than 175,000 visas issued to foreign nationals since the beginning of 2025, citing violations of visa conditions, criminal activity, misuse of immigration procedures and concerns related to national security.

According to a statement released by the department, a large proportion of the cancellations followed referrals from U.S. security agencies. The cases reportedly involved a range of offenses, with assault, driving under the influence of alcohol, theft and drug-related crimes among the main reasons for visa revocations.

Other grounds cited by U.S. authorities include reckless driving, sexual assault, child abuse, fraud and embezzlement. The department said the measures form part of ongoing screening and monitoring procedures designed to ensure that visa holders comply with the conditions attached to their status.

The cancellations reflect a broader effort by the U.S. administration to strengthen immigration enforcement and scrutinize the conduct of foreign nationals who enter the country under temporary or other visa arrangements.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that some foreign nationals could also face removal proceedings on foreign-policy grounds, signaling that immigration decisions may extend beyond criminal violations and traditional visa-related offenses.

U.S. officials maintain that visa issuance does not guarantee an unrestricted right to remain in the country and that authorities can take action when individuals violate applicable rules or are considered to pose a threat to public safety.

The State Department said its review process would continue, with officials expected to identify additional cases in which visas may be cancelled. The policy is part of a wider approach focused on immigration enforcement, national security and compliance with U.S. law.

The scale of the cancellations highlights the growing importance of visa screening and enforcement in U.S. immigration policy, while also underscoring the consequences foreign visitors can face when they violate the conditions under which they were admitted.