US State Department cancels more than 6,000 student visas

The US State Department has canceled more than 6,000 student visas this year, as the Trump administration tightens its policies on international students.

Signboard of the US State Department building in Washington, DC - Photo: REUTERS

According to CNN, on August 18, a US State Department official said the department had revoked more than 6,000 student visas this year, mainly because the holders overstayed or violated the law.

About 4,000 of these were revoked for violations of the law, mostly related to assault, drunk driving, theft and “supporting terrorism,” according to the department.

About 200 to 300 other cases were dismissed because of terrorism-related allegations, under a provision of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act that states foreigners can be barred from entering the country due to “terrorist activities.”

The move comes as the Trump administration takes a tough stance on foreign universities and students, especially those who have participated in protests against the Gaza war. The US government believes that some students have anti-Semitic and terrorist views.

Since June, the US State Department has required embassies and consulates to tighten the review of student visas, including assessing applicants' attitudes toward "American citizens, culture, government , institutions, and founding principles."

Applicants must disclose their social media accounts for screening. A diplomatic cable stressed: “Restricting access or concealing information online may be considered an attempt to avoid or conceal certain activities.”

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio asserted that this policy is necessary, stating: “There is no constitutional right to a student visa. A visa is something we decide to give you.”

According to the US State Department, in 2024, the US issued about 400,000 student visas (F1 visas). However, with strict regulations and a suspension of new appointments, the number of student visas this year is expected to decrease sharply.

The NAFSA Association for International Education predicts that the number of new international students could drop by 30-40%, resulting in a 15% drop in total fall enrollment.

NAFSA warns that the situation could cost the local economy $7 billion in lost spending and more than 60,000 jobs. Without improvements in visa issuance, the US could welcome up to 150,000 fewer students in the fall.

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Source: https://tuoitre.vn/bo-ngoai-giao-my-huy-hon-6-000-visa-sinh-vien-20250819095919946.htm