The U.S. State Department is preparing to revoke the business and tourism visas of up to 200,000 foreigners who have applied for or are currently seeking asylum in the United States. The move, if implemented, would mark the largest single mass visa revocation in U.S. history, according to multiple reports citing State Department documents and U.S. officials.
The revocations would target holders of B1 and B2 visas issued between 2016 and 2026 who later pursued asylum claims. The State Department has not confirmed the exact number of visas to be revoked, stating that the process will be ongoing and dynamic, with revocations conducted on a rolling basis. The action will be coordinated with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), officials said.
Key details of the plan
- Scope of visas affected: B1 (business) and B2 (tourism) visas, including combined B1/B2 visas.
- Timeframe of affected visas: Issued between 2016 and 2026.
- Target group: Foreign nationals who entered the U.S. as short-term visitors but later filed for asylum.
- Immediate impact: Revocations would not automatically lead to deportation, but affected individuals would lose their status as business or tourism travelers. Those with pending asylum cases could still pursue their claims but would be recategorized.
- Timing: The State Department is expected to announce the measure in the coming weeks, unless legally challenged or revised.
Administration’s stated rationale
State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said the revocations aim to address what the administration describes as misuse of temporary visas. "We are coordinating with DHS to identify and revoke the nonimmigrant visas of foreigners who have come to the United States claiming to be short-term visitors, but then file for asylum to stay here permanently," Pigott stated. He did not provide a specific number of visas to be revoked, emphasizing that the process remains fluid.
Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau previously alleged on social media that the U.S. immigration system has been "swamped by frivolous asylum claims," framing the move as part of broader efforts to tighten immigration enforcement.
Broader policy context
Since President Donald Trump began his second term, the administration has introduced several measures to restrict visa issuance and immigration pathways. These include:
- Increased scrutiny of applicants’ social media activity during the visa application process.
- Introduction of visa bond requirements, which impose financial guarantees for certain visa applicants.
- Restrictions on visa issuance for citizens of specific countries.
The administration has already revoked approximately 175,000 visas under these policies, primarily for reasons related to criminal activity or visa violations. The planned revocations would nearly double that number.
Legal and humanitarian considerations
Legal experts and advocacy groups have indicated that the measure could face legal challenges on grounds of due process and the principle that visa revocations do not automatically invalidate pending asylum claims. Critics argue that the policy may disproportionately affect vulnerable individuals who entered the U.S. under legal pretenses but later sought protection due to persecution or danger in their home countries.
The revocations would not result in immediate deportation for most affected individuals, as asylum cases would continue to be adjudicated separately. However, the loss of B1/B2 status could complicate their legal standing in the U.S. while their asylum applications are reviewed.
What are B1 and B2 visas?
- B1 visas are issued for short-term business activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations.
- B2 visas cover tourism, family visits, medical treatment, and other temporary travel purposes.
- Many applicants receive a combined B1/B2 visa, which permits both types of travel.
- These visas are nonimmigrant visas, meaning holders are expected to demonstrate intent to return to their home countries after their temporary stay.
Next steps
The State Department has not provided a specific timeline for the announcement of the revocations. The plan remains subject to change based on legal reviews or administrative revisions. Affected individuals and legal representatives are expected to monitor official communications from the State Department and DHS for further guidance.