US Revokes Over 300,000 Visas Since Trump Began Second Term

The United States has revoked more than 300,000 visas since President Donald Trump began his second term in January 2025, the US State Department said. The figure matters for anyone holding or applying for a US visa, as cancellations have accelerated in recent months.

Key facts

• More than 300,000 visas revoked since January 2025
• Previous total: more than 175,000, reported on 10 August 2026
• Announced by State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott on Tuesday
• Revocations target foreign nationals who break US laws, commit fraud or are seen as national security threats

What has been announced?

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott announced the latest total on Tuesday, saying the administration has revoked visas faster than any previous US administration. He said the government applies a "zero tolerance" policy toward foreign nationals who violate US laws, commit fraud or pose threats to national security.

The new total is a sharp rise from the more than 175,000 revocations the department reported on 10 August 2026, reflecting what the source describes as a substantial increase in enforcement over the past two months.

Who is being targeted?

The administration has revoked visas held by foreign nationals who took part in pro-Palestinian demonstrations against Israel's war in Gaza, the source reports. Rights advocates have also raised concerns about cancellations linked to foreigners' social media comments, including remarks about the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.

Beyond visa revocations, the administration has expanded social media screening for immigrants and visa applicants and pursued deportation proceedings against foreign protesters. Civil rights groups argue officials have used national security concerns to target government critics and applied individual fraud cases to justify broader scrutiny of immigrant communities, including Somali Americans in Minnesota.

Why is this happening?

Trump has defended his immigration policies as necessary to strengthen domestic security, while the administration argues that visa revocations form part of a broader effort to tighten immigration controls. Civil rights organizations have criticised the measures, arguing they undermine due process and freedom of expression and expose minority communities to discrimination and racial profiling.

What this means for travellers

Foreign nationals holding US visas should be aware that visas can be revoked, including in connection with law violations, fraud, national security concerns, protest activity and social media comments, as described in the source. Travellers planning US trips may wish to check the current status of their visa before departure.

The source does not state which nationalities are most affected, any new application procedures, or what further measures the administration plans. No additional figures or deadlines have been announced.