The Trump administration is preparing to revoke business and tourism visas held by up to 200,000 foreigners who have applied for or are currently seeking asylum status in the United States, according to State Department documents and officials. The action, if implemented, would constitute the largest single mass revocation of visas in U.S. history and is expected to be announced in the coming weeks in coordination with the Department of Homeland Security.
State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott characterized the effort as targeting foreigners who initially presented themselves as short-term visitors but subsequently filed for asylum to remain permanently. Officials indicated that revocations would not necessarily result in immediate deportation, with most asylum applicants facing recategorization rather than expulsion. The specific number of affected visas remains uncertain, with officials noting the process would be conducted on a rolling basis.
The initiative reflects an administration pattern of tightening visa policies since the current term began. Prior restrictions have included enhanced social media screening for visa applicants, mandatory bond payments for visa processing, and visa bans for citizens of certain countries. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau argued that asylum claims submitted by business and tourist visa holders represent improper use of immigration pathways.
B1 visas are issued for business purposes while B2 visas cover tourism, family visits, and medical care. Current applicants for these visas are required to affirm they will not seek asylum and demonstrate intent to return home. Over the past 18 months, the State Department revoked approximately 175,000 visas for individuals convicted or accused of various crimes and those who have publicly criticized U.S. policies. The administration has also pursued restrictions on birth tourism, a practice officials contend allows foreign nationals to use U.S. childbirth as a path to birthright citizenship.
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