US Revokes More Than 175,000 Visas as Immigration Crackdown Intensifies

The US revokes more than 175,000 visas as the Trump administration increases immigration enforcement and targets visa abuse. The US Department of State said the action follows criminal activity, fraud, visa violations, threats and other concerns.

The department said most visa cancellations followed contact with law enforcement. Assault, driving under the influence, theft and drug offences were among the main reasons.

Other cases involved reckless driving, sexual assault, child abuse, fraud and embezzlement. Officials said the measures are part of continuous checks on people who hold US visas.

The checks aim to ensure visitors follow the conditions of their visas. They also seek to identify people who may pose a threat to public safety or national security.

The State Department also highlighted cases linked to so-called birth tourism. The term refers to people who travel to the United States with the intention of giving birth there so their children can obtain US citizenship.

Washington warned Caribbean nationals and other foreign visitors against providing false information about their travel plans. Officials said people who deliberately misrepresent their reasons for travelling could face permanent visa or entry restrictions.

The department said it has found cases where applicants allegedly tried to bypass US immigration rules. Some sought to secure US citizenship for their children and potentially gain immigration benefits later.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has also determined that some foreign nationals can be removed from the United States on foreign policy grounds. The department cited a Cuban national allegedly linked to an influence operation connected to the Cuban communist regime.

US officials said they are working with the Department of Homeland Security to combat birth tourism and protect the immigration system.

The latest action comes amid a legal fight over President Donald Trump’s efforts to restrict birthright citizenship.

The American Civil Liberties Union and other legal groups have challenged Trump’s latest order. They are asking a federal court to protect children who could be affected by the policy.

The ACLU said the US Supreme Court ruled against Trump’s earlier attempt to end birthright citizenship protections on June 30. Trump signed another executive order targeting birthright citizenship on August 6.

US officials are now warning foreign visitors that abusing the visa system could have serious consequences, including losing future access to the country.