US planned mass visa revocation for 200,000 foreigners

The Trump administration is moving to revoke up to 200,000 B1 and B2 business and tourism visas for foreigners who have applied for or are seeking asylum in the United States, a plan that could mark the largest mass visa revocation in U.S. history. The scope would cover visas issued between 2016 and 2026, with the action coordinated between the State Department and the Department of Homeland Security. Officials say the revocations may not immediately deport people; many would be recategorized but would lose their status as short-term visitors, potentially altering pending asylum cases. State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott cautioned that the number of affected visas would be dynamic and would be implemented on a rolling basis as the process proceeds. The move comes amid a broader tightening of U.S. visa and immigration rules under President Trump’s second term, including enhanced scrutiny of applicants and new bond requirements, and has already drawn anticipation of possible legal challenges. Critics and supporters alike are weighing the potential impact on asylum access and national security, with officials noting the changes could face court review and policy adjustments before final implementation.