The U.S. government, under President Donald Trump, has revoked over 80,000 visas belonging to foreign nationals — including Nigerians — as part of its latest immigration crackdown.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the U.S. Department of State revealed that the number of revoked visas has more than doubled compared to last year, with over 8,000 student visas among those affected.
According to the department, the revocations were largely due to offences such as assault, theft, and driving under the influence (DUI), which collectively accounted for nearly half of the cancellations. Other reasons included terrorism-related activities, public safety risks, and visa overstays.
More than 16,000 visas were revoked for DUIs, 12,000 for assault, and 8,000 for theft, according to official figures.
“Promises made, promises kept,” the department stated on X, affirming that President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are prioritising “the safety and interests of the American people.”
Since returning to the White House in January, Trump’s administration has launched a wave of executive orders aimed at deporting millions of undocumented migrants, including asylum seekers.
In August, the State Department confirmed that over 6,000 student visas were cancelled for overstays and legal violations — with a small number linked to “support for terrorism.”
Similarly, in October, at least six individuals lost their visas following social media comments about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Secretary Marco Rubio earlier stated that “hundreds, perhaps thousands,” of student and work visas had been withdrawn from people involved in actions “that go against U.S. foreign policy priorities.”
The administration has also tightened scrutiny of visa applicants with political activism backgrounds or ties to groups considered hostile to the U.S.
Officials warned that student visa and green card holders could face deportation for publicly supporting Palestinians or criticising Israel, describing such acts as pro-Hamas or anti-U.S. policy.
Adding to these changes, the U.S. on Thursday announced new health-based visa restrictions, potentially denying entry to foreigners with chronic conditions such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, or cancer.
A CBS News report revealed that embassies and consulates worldwide have been instructed to scrutinize applicants’ medical histories and financial ability to afford healthcare without public aid.
Consular officers now have broader powers to deny visas based not only on current illnesses but also potential future medical expenses, extending evaluations to family members whose care might affect an applicant’s financial stability.
The new policy lists obesity, lung disease, hypertension, and mental health disorders among high-risk conditions that could lead to visa denial.
What’s your opinion on the Trump administration’s mass visa revocation and new health-screening rules? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
