The U.S. Department of State has revealed that more than 100,000 visas have been revoked since President Donald Trump assumed office last year. According to the data shared on the department’s social media platforms, among those revoked are roughly 8,000 student visas and about 2,500 special skilled worker visas.
Officials said the cancellations primarily targeted individuals linked to criminal activities or those under the scrutiny of U.S. security agencies. The department emphasized that it will continue deporting such individuals as part of its ongoing efforts to keep the United States safe.
Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott commented, “The Trump administration has no higher priority than protecting American citizens and upholding American sovereignty. In less than one year, the State Department revoked over 100,000 visas from foreign nationals, marking a new record and a more than 150% increase in revocations since 2024.”
“The State Department revoked visas from thousands of foreign nationals charged with or convicted of crimes, including assault, theft, and driving under the influence. The State Department’s recently launched Continuous Vetting Center works to ensure that all foreign nationals on American soil comply with our laws—and that the visas of those who pose a threat to American citizens are swiftly revoked,” said Pigott.
He further stated, “The Trump administration will continue to put America first and protect our nation from foreign nationals who pose a risk to public safety or national security.”
Nepali nationals are among those whose visas have been revoked, though exact figures have not yet been made public. NepYork has requested updated information from the State Department but has not yet received a response.
Earlier, NepYork reported a drop of 821 Nepali students in U.S. colleges within a two-month period. According to SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) data, the number of Nepali students studying in the U.S. fell from 35,273 in October to 34,452 in December.
A previous report published in August showed that SEVIS records for more than 2,000 Nepali students were terminated within four months, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. In April, 32,070 Nepali students were enrolled in U.S. institutions, but by early August, that number had dropped to 30,019 after 2,049 SEVIS records were canceled or deactivated.
The SEVIS system, maintained by the U.S. government, tracks and monitors international students and exchange visitors. When a SEVIS record is terminated, the individual’s visa status is no longer valid, making it illegal for them to remain in the country or continue their studies.
Sources indicate that a large number of Nepali students had their visas and SEVIS records canceled between April and May of last year. Lawyers estimate that nearly 100 Nepali students were affected during that period. Some received direct email notifications from U.S. embassies, while others were informed through their colleges.
However, not all SEVIS terminations are linked to government cancellations. Records may also be closed when students graduate, change their immigration status, or voluntarily discontinue their studies. While it remains unclear how many Nepali students were specifically affected by the Trump administration’s recent visa actions, the data reflects a notable decline and increased scrutiny regarding Nepali student visas.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
