Over 1.75 lakh visas revoked in Trump's second term: State Dept

The Trump administration has revoked more than 1,75,000 visas since the start of its second term, according to the US State Department. The figure, disclosed in a recent departmental update, marks one of the most aggressive visa enforcement drives in recent American history.

Officials say the majority of these revocations are tied to criminal activities, with driving under influence (DUI) cases forming a significant chunk. The move is part of a broader immigration crackdown that has seen stricter scrutiny of visa holders across multiple categories.

What the numbers show

The State Department's data indicates that the revocation figure has climbed steadily over the past year. While the department has not broken down the exact share of each offence category, it has confirmed that criminal grounds, including DUIs, dominate the list.

Visa revocations have been executed across student, work, and tourist visa categories. In several cases, individuals were already in the US when their visas were cancelled, leaving them with limited time to depart or adjust status.

Why DUI cases are being targeted

Immigration lawyers point out that DUI convictions have long been a basis for visa cancellation under US law, but the current administration is applying the provision more strictly. A single DUI conviction, even without injury, can now trigger immediate revocation proceedings.

This stricter interpretation has caught many visa holders off guard, particularly those with otherwise clean records. Legal experts say the administration is using these cases to send a signal that criminal behaviour, however minor, will not be tolerated.

Broader immigration crackdown

The revocations are part of a wider enforcement strategy that includes increased workplace raids, heightened border checks, and faster deportation processes. The administration has argued that these measures are necessary to protect American jobs and public safety.

Critics, however, contend that the policy is overly broad and unfairly penalises individuals for minor offences. Civil rights groups have filed multiple lawsuits challenging the revocation process, but courts have so far upheld the administration's authority.

Impact on Indian visa holders

The crackdown has significant implications for Indian nationals, who constitute one of the largest groups of visa holders in the US. Many Indian students and tech workers on H-1B and F-1 visas have reported heightened anxiety over potential revocation.

Consular officials in India have been instructed to expedite revocation procedures in cases involving criminal records. The US embassy in New Delhi has not issued a specific advisory, but local immigration attorneys say they are seeing a rise in queries from concerned clients.

Data from previous years shows that Indian nationals account for a substantial share of US visa issuances, making them particularly exposed to the current policy shift.

What happens next

The State Department is expected to release a detailed breakdown of revocation categories in the coming weeks. Officials have hinted that the numbers could rise further as more cases are reviewed.

For now, visa holders with any past criminal record, including DUI, are advised to consult legal counsel before travelling to or within the US. The administration shows no sign of softening its stance, and the coming months may see even tighter enforcement.