In 2025, the United States revoked over 100,000 visas, doubling the total from the previous year, as part of a concerted effort to strengthen national security and public safety. This wide-ranging initiative primarily targeted individuals who had overstayed their visas or engaged in criminal activity, signaling a stricter approach under President Trump's administration. Officials emphasized that the revocations focused on removing people who posed potential risks to American communities.

The majority of cancellations involved business (B1/B2) and tourist visas, often due to overstays or legal infractions such as driving under the influence (DUI), assault, theft, and other offenses including substance abuse or fraud. DUI alone accounted for half of specialized worker visa revocations, highlighting that even non-violent violations now heavily influence visa decisions. Additionally, approximately 8,000 student (F1) visas and 2,500 specialized visas, such as H1B for skilled professionals, were revoked due to encounters with law enforcement. These actions were facilitated by the newly established Continuous Vetting Center, which monitors compliance in real time and ensures that potential threats are swiftly addressed.

The crackdown had a notable impact on global travelers, particularly Indian students and professionals in tech hubs like Silicon Valley, who experienced significant disruptions. While overstays had risen in the post-pandemic period, the 2025 enforcement reflects stricter vetting of applicants from so-called “high-risk” regions, with each case reviewed comprehensively rather than on the basis of a single infraction. In some instances, freedom of speech concerns, including foreign censorship attempts, also contributed to visa denials.

This surge, representing a 150% increase over 2024, underscores a shift toward “America First” immigration enforcement, with U.S. diplomats abroad prioritizing safety over visa volume. Prospective applicants can expect longer processing times and more thorough background checks, making a clean record essential. For travelers from India, this may encourage exploration of alternative pathways, such as Canada’s express entry program for skilled workers, while ensuring applications are meticulously prepared.