US revokes 100,000 visas, targets 8,000 students over 'criminal activity'
The Trump-led US State Department announced Monday it has revoked over 100,000 visas. According to the statement posted on X, this includes approximately 8,000 student visas and 2,500 specialized visas for individuals who had encounters with US law enforcement for criminal activity.
The US government vowed to continue deporting individuals it described as 'thugs' to maintain national security. This marks a significant escalation in the administration's immigration enforcement strategy, specifically targeting visa holders with any law enforcement history.
For Nigerian students and professionals currently in the US or planning to travel, this policy means any past encounter with US law enforcement—regardless of conviction status—could result in immediate visa cancellation and deportation. Affected individuals lose their legal status and face potential re-entry bans.
If you hold a US visa, verify your status immediately at the US Department of State website. If you or family members have any law enforcement history, even for minor offenses, consult an immigration attorney before any travel plans. The administration's 'thugs' description suggests zero tolerance policy will continue expanding.