The Trump administration is launching a sweeping review of more than 55 million US visa holders, checking for potential violations that could lead to revocation and deportation. The State Department has confirmed that all foreigners with valid US visas are subject to 'continuous vetting', including scrutiny of social media activity, to identify any grounds for ineligibility.
According to a department spokesperson, visas can be revoked 'any time there are indicators of overstays, criminal activity, threats to public safety, engaging in any form of terrorist activity, or providing support to a terrorist organisation'. If a visa is revoked while the holder is in the United States, they become subject to deportation.
The move follows a separate announcement by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that it will look for 'anti-American' views, including on social media, when assessing applications for residency or citizenship. A USCIS spokesperson said, 'America's benefits should not be given to those who despise the country and promote anti-American ideologies.'
The administration has also targeted international students, revoking 6,000 student visas since January for overstays and lawbreaking, including assault and 'support for terrorism'. New rules require students to unlock their social media profiles for review before receiving educational visas.
Critics argue the crackdown unfairly targets foreign nationals and infringes on free expression, while the administration insists it is necessary to protect national security and public safety.
