Donald Trump Administration Plans To Cancel Visas Of 200,000 Foreign Nationals In Major US Move

Washington: The Donald Trump administration is preparing to cancel the business and tourist visas of a large number of foreigners who have applied for asylum in the US or are in the process of getting asylum. According to the report, around 2 lakh people may be affected by this action. If the plan is implemented, it could be considered the largest single visa cancellation action in US history.

It has been reported that the US State Department may take steps in this regard in the coming weeks. However, the plan has not yet been finally implemented and there is a possibility of it being challenged or changed legally.

Who may have their B1 and B2 visas cancelled?

The crackdown could extend to B1 and B2 visas issued between 2016 and 2026, the Associated Press reports. B1 visas are usually granted for business travel, while B2 visas are granted for tourism, visiting family or some other temporary visits.

Under the scheme, those people are being identified who arrived in America as temporary visitors and later applied for asylum there or are currently seeking asylum.

What did the State Department say on this action?

US State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said the department is working with the Department of Homeland Security to identify foreigners who came to the US claiming to be short-term visitors but later applied for permanent asylum.

However, the State Department has not officially confirmed the exact number of visas that may potentially be revoked. According to officials, the numbers may change as the process continues.

Does visa cancellation mean immediate deportation from the US?

Cancellation of a visa does not necessarily mean that the person concerned will be immediately deported from the US. People whose asylum cases are still pending may retain the right to pursue their cases.

Why did the Trump administration increase the strictness on visa rules?

This step is considered to be part of the broader immigration policy of the Trump administration. The administration says the process of arriving in the US with a temporary visa and subsequent asylum should not be used as a way to avoid immigration laws.

During Trump's second term, the administration has continuously tightened policies related to visa checks, immigration rules and deportation.

Will this be America's biggest visa cancellation action?

If nearly 2 lakh B1 and B2 visas are revoked, it could be the largest single-time mass visa revocation in US history. However, the final number is not yet finalised, and legal challenges or policy changes are possible before the plan is implemented.