Due to reasons such as overstaying and breaking the law, the US government has revoked more than 6,000 student visas.
An official from the US State Department said that around 4,000 visas were revoked due to illegal behavior, the vast majority of which involved assault. Other violations included drunk driving and breaking and entering.
The official cited relevant State Department regulations, stating that another 200 to 300 visas were revoked due to terrorism-related concerns. The listed reasons include “engaging in terrorist activities” and “association with certain terrorist organizations.”
However, authorities have not disclosed which organizations the students supported that led to visa revocation.
At the end of May, the US State Department ordered its embassies and consulates abroad to suspend new appointments for international student visa interviews. Although the processing of international student visa applications resumed in June, authorities have significantly strengthened the scrutiny of applicants’ social media accounts.
Since President Trump returned to office, he has targeted universities such as Harvard and Columbia, aiming to crack down on antisemitism and diversity and inclusion policies on campuses.