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The Trump administration has started an unusual examination of the records for over 55 million foreign individuals who have valid US visas. This action, verified by the State Department and initially reported by the Associated Press, is part of a major enhancement of President Donald Trump's strict immigration policies. Officials indicated that all visa holders will now undergo “ongoing checks” to confirm that they continue to qualify. If any signs of rule breaches or factors that disqualify them are found, their visa could be cancelled. Those already living in the United States may then face deportation. A spokesperson from the State Department clarified, “Visas can be revoked whenever there are signs of possible ineligibility, such as overstaying, criminal offenses, threats to safety, involvement in any terrorist acts, or aiding a terrorist group.”
This review coincides with the administration's choice to widen the criteria for immigration checks, which now include monitoring for “anti-American” opinions on social media. US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) declared it will extend its examination processes to look at the online actions of people wanting to live or work in the United States. Matthew Tragesser, a spokesperson for USCIS, stated, “Benefits in America should not go to those who hate this country and spread anti-American beliefs. Immigration perks – which include living and working in the United States – are privileges, not entitlements.” Officials have confirmed that the primary focus will be on spotting any online activities that show hostility towards the United States, antisemitism, or support for terrorism. Since January, the Trump administration has tied immigration eligibility to views on US foreign policy, especially regarding Israel. The newest guidelines instruct officials to look into whether applicants endorse antisemitic beliefs or take part in activism seen as opposing US policies.
Students and scholars are among those impacted. Officials have accused multiple universities and student organizations of antisemitism and endorsing terrorism because they took part in protests against Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Activists have dismissed these accusations, arguing that they are merely attempts to silence political opposition. In April, the administration changed or withdrew the legal standing of hundreds of international students, but many were reinstated weeks later following legal and diplomatic pressures. In May, interviews for student visas were briefly stopped, and new requirements were established in June, mandating applicants to allow access to their social media accounts for evaluation.
On Monday, the State Department announced that 6,000 student visas have been taken away since Marco Rubio became Secretary of State in January. Out of these, around 4,000 were cancelled due to breaches of state or federal laws, such as assault, DUI, burglary, and supposed support for terrorism. Officials claim these actions are essential for ensuring national safety and protecting public order. However, critics caution that these broad authorities might criminalize normal actions and could discourage international students, researchers, and skilled workers from coming to the United States. The “continuous vetting” system means that those holding visas might now be monitored for the entire time they are in the country, a change from the past when checks occurred mostly during the initial application stage. Immigration attorneys have warned that the unclear guidelines on what is seen as “anti-American” behavior could lead to misunderstanding and misuse. With over 55 million foreign individuals being examined, the administration's actions aim to strengthen immigration enforcement both legally and culturally.
