The United States has revoked more than 6,000 student visas, citing criminal violations and national security concerns.
According to BBC, officials said that the majority of the cancellations were linked to crimes, including assault, burglary, and driving under the influence. Around 4,000 of the revoked visas fell under the student visa category.
In addition, between 200 and 300 visas were withdrawn under provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act relating to terrorism. The State Department defines terrorism broadly as “acts that endanger human life or violate U.S. law.”
However, the department did not clarify what it meant by “support for terrorism.” Observers pointed out that the Trump administration has previously moved against some foreign students who protested in support of Palestine, accusing them of engaging in antisemitic conduct.
LEADERSHIP reports that the revocations formed part of the administration’s wider crackdown on immigration and foreign students. Earlier this year, visa appointments for international students were temporarily suspended.
When services resumed in June, new applicants were required to submit access to their social media accounts as part of what officials described as “enhanced vetting.” State Department officers were also instructed to screen for “signs of hostility toward U.S. citizens, culture, and institutions,” as well as “support for designated terrorist groups or involvement in antisemitic harassment or violence.”
