11.12.2025 19:28
The U.S. Department of State announced that over 85,000 visas have been canceled as part of tightened security screenings in 2025. This figure stands out as the highest number of visa cancellations recorded in recent times, with thousands of student visas among those canceled. Officials stated that the process is carried out not only during the application stage but also through ongoing security screenings throughout the duration of the visa.
The U.S. Department of State announced that more than 85,000 visas were canceled in 2025, breaking a record for the last decade. The tightening of security screenings has led to a significant drop, especially in student and tourist visas, and it was stated that the decision was made in line with the directives of the Trump administration.
MORE THAN 8,000 STUDENT VISAS CANCELED
According to ministry sources, the canceled visas include tourist, student, work, and other types of temporary visas. Among these, there are more than 8,000 student visas, which is more than double the number of student visa cancellations in 2024.
REASONS FOR CANCELLATIONS
According to official statements, the majority of visa cancellations are associated with behaviors deemed to pose a threat to public safety. The most common reasons for cancellations include driving under the influence, assault charges, and theft.
A State Department official made the following assessment to Fox News: "We do not want to allow individuals who threaten the safety of our communities to remain in our country."
TIGHTER SECURITY REVIEWS
The Trump administration has made significant changes to visa policies recently. In this context:
Additional security reviews were implemented for H-1B temporary work visa applications,
Instructions were given to deny visas to foreigners exhibiting behaviors aimed at restricting freedom of expression in the U.S.,
It was announced that the acceptance of immigrants from 19 countries would be temporarily halted.
NEW SANCTIONS ARE ALSO BEING IMPLEMENTED
Additionally, extra visa sanctions have been enacted for foreign policy and security reasons:
A visa ban was imposed on individuals allegedly responsible for attacks on Christians in Nigeria,
Visas for six executives of a Mexican airline and their families were canceled, accused of aiding human trafficking.