US set for largest mass visa revocation in history targeting up to 200,000 foreigners
The United States is preparing the largest mass revocation of visas in its history, targeting up to 200,000 foreigners currently in the country, according to US officials cited by AP News. The move, reported on 24 August and confirmed in subsequent briefings, represents a sweeping escalation of immigration enforcement with direct consequences for labour markets, higher education and corporate sponsorship programmes.
By Source Reporters Newsdesk
Thu, 27 August 2026 · 1 min read
The United States is preparing the largest mass revocation of visas in its history, targeting up to 200,000 foreigners currently in the country, according to US officials cited by AP News. The move, reported on 24 August and confirmed in subsequent briefings, represents a sweeping escalation of immigration enforcement with direct consequences for labour markets, higher education and corporate sponsorship programmes.
The revocations are expected to focus on individuals whose visas have lapsed or who are otherwise out of status, officials said. The scale of the operation — potentially affecting one in five of the roughly 1 million foreigners on student and work visas in the US at any given time — would disrupt industries that depend on international talent, including technology, finance, healthcare and higher education.
International students and their universities have warned that mass visa cancellations could cost institutions billions of dollars in tuition and upend research programmes. Tech companies, which have long relied on H-1B and other specialised visa categories to hire engineers and scientists from abroad, have said they are assessing the legal and operational implications.
The Trump administration has made immigration enforcement a central policy priority, and the visa revocation plan follows a series of measures including expanded employer worksite audits and tighter scrutiny of visa extensions. Business groups have argued that sweeping enforcement actions risk creating labour shortages in sectors where domestic supply cannot immediately meet demand, particularly in advanced manufacturing and STEM fields.
The plan has also drawn criticism from civil-liberties groups, who say it threatens the families of visa holders and could have long-term consequences for America's reputation as a destination for global talent. The administration has said it will provide limited case-by-case relief for individuals who can demonstrate hardship or compliance.
**Sources:** Associated Press
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