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The United States Government, through the Department of State, confirmed that it is subjecting more than 55 million visa holders to "ongoing evaluation" in order to detect possible violations that could lead to the revocation of their visas and, if the individual is within U.S. territory, to their deportation.
Amid a tightening of immigration controls under the administration of President Donald Trump, the Department of State will begin a review of visas looking for "indicators of ineligibility."
Among them, excessive overstaying in the country beyond the authorized period is mentioned, as well as criminal activity or threats to public security and participation in any form of terrorist activity or support for a terrorist organization.
"We reviewed all available information as part of our evaluation, including law enforcement or immigration records, or any other information that comes to light after the issuance of the visa indicating potential ineligibility," detailed the portfolio.
Under this framework, "visas that allow one to stay in the country can be revoked at any time" if elements arise that invalidate them.
The Department emphasized that this verification is not limited to the time of the consular interview, but continues while the visa is valid.
If during that "continuous evaluation" information is found that affects eligibility, the visa is revoked and, if the holder is in the United States, they become subject to removal through the processes established in immigration law.
In focus: international students
So far this year - in a context of more restrictive policies - the authorities have revoked more than 6,000 student visas for alleged violations of the law.
Federal surveillance, reports indicate, has been particularly focused on international students participating in protests supporting Palestine and against the war in Gaza, with accusations ranging from anti-Semitism to support for terrorism.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the government's authority to grant or revoke these permits: "There is no constitutional right to a student visa. A student visa is something we decide to give you... If I had denied you a visa knowing something about you, and then I find out that I granted you a visa and discover this about you, why couldn't I revoke your visa?" he said this month.
Implications for visa holders
The announcement of the massive and permanent review implies that all visa categories (tourism and business, study, temporary work, exchange, among others) remain under scrutiny even after they have been issued.
Among the most significant consequences:
Immediate revocation if subsequent information arises that affects eligibility.
Possible deportation if the person is already in the U.S. at the time of the revocation.
Greater data exchange between agencies (police, immigration, and security records) to support the "continuous evaluation."
An extra twist in immigration control
The review of the more than 55 million visa holders is part of a climate of increasing strictness in immigration policy and a preventive approach to security.
The message coming from Washington is clear: no visa is permanent; all can be re-evaluated and revoked if new factors arise that invalidate them.
While civil organizations and academic sectors warn about the risks of discretion, the Executive defends that national security and strict compliance with immigration regulations justify constant oversight and revocation when appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions about Visa Review in the U.S.
Why is the United States reviewing 55 million visas?
The United States is reviewing over 55 million visas for possible violations that could lead to the revocation of the document and, if the individual is in U.S. territory, their deportation. This measure is part of tightening immigration controls under the Trump administration, looking for "indicators of ineligibility" such as excessive stay, criminal activity, and threats to public safety.
What consequences does a visa holder face if irregularities are detected?
If irregularities are detected, the visa may be revoked immediately, and if the holder is in the U.S., they are subject to deportation. Additionally, the State Department conducts data exchanges between agencies to support an "ongoing assessment" that may include police, immigration, and security records.
Who is under greater scrutiny in this visa review?
International students, especially those who have participated in protests supporting Palestine and against the war in Gaza, are under increased scrutiny. More than 6,000 student visas have been revoked for alleged violations of the law so far this year. Authorities are paying special attention to activities deemed as threats to national security.
What justification does the U.S. government provide for the revocation of visas?
The Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has defended the government's authority to grant or revoke visa permits, stating that a visa is a privilege and not a right. According to Rubio, visas should be revoked if information is uncovered that invalidates them, especially if national security threats or violations of immigration laws are identified.
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