What does it mean that the U.S. will maintain "ongoing investigation" for more than 55 million granted visas?

The United States government, through the Department of State, announced a mass review of over 55 million valid visa holders.

The objective is to detect possible violations that could lead to the revocation of permits and the eventual deportation of those who are in the country.

The measure, which immigration experts describe as unprecedented due to its scope and preventive nature, is part of the most restrictive immigration policy of the administration of President Donald Trump.

The massive visa review covers all categories: tourism, business, studies, temporary work, and exchange.

According to the State Department, the "ongoing investigation" will focus on identifying any signs of inadmissibility that may arise after the visa has been issued.

Among the evaluated criteria are excessive stay in the country, a history of criminal activity, threats to public safety, and any involvement in terrorist acts or support for terrorist organizations.

Experts warn that this review could go beyond legal conduct and focus on the political expression of the applicants.

David J. Bier, director of immigration policy at the Cato Institute, told The Washington Post that the administration could conduct "proactive" reviews of social media posts and revoke visas based not on conduct, but on the expression of opinions, an approach that raises concerns about potential arbitrariness and discrimination in case selection.

The measure, which formalizes an existing procedure, implies that the visa status—traditionally subject to reevaluation in the case of crimes or immigration violations—will now be under constant scrutiny, even in the absence of evident infractions.

Julia Gelatt, associate director of the immigration policy program at the Migration Policy Institute, stated to the AP agency that the review of over 55 million visas would also include individuals who are outside the country with multiple-entry tourist permits, raising concerns about the efficient use of resources in cases involving individuals who may not return to the United States.

The State Department indicated that the review will include a thorough analysis of police, judicial, and immigration records.

In addition, social media accounts and electronic devices could be inspected, in accordance with the new visa requirements adopted earlier this year, which allow officials to access applicants' phones and applications during the interview process.

Although the State Department claims that the measure aims to ensure security and law enforcement, civil organizations and immigration experts warn about the risks of discretion and arbitrariness, especially when linking visa revocation to political opinions or activities on social media.

With this policy, the Trump administration reinforces its message that no visa is permanent, and that all holders are subject to ongoing monitoring.

The evaluation continues while the visa is valid, with the possibility of immediate revocation and deportation if new information arises that compromises the holder's eligibility.

The impact of this policy has already begun to be reflected in concrete figures: since Trump's return to the White House, over 6,000 student visas have been revoked for exceeding the duration of their stay or violating U.S. law.

Of these, approximately 4,000 were for common legal infractions, while between 200 and 300 were related to issues concerning terrorism, including support for designated terrorist organizations or state sponsors of terrorism.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Massive Visa Review in the United States