Record high number of visa cancellations in 2025

In the year 2025, visa cancellations by the U.S. Department of State (DOS) have increased rapidly. January 20, 2025, more than 4million visas have been canceled so far, of which more than 6,000 have been canceled by F, M, J, and other student visas. The number of visa cancellations for the same period in 2024was approximately 16,000, indicating that the number has more than doubled since the Trump administration took office. In addition to past criminal records and immigration violations, the reasons for visa cancellations include security screening, social networking and online behavior of visa holders, and many based on "prudentialjudgment. In terms of past criminal history, in addition to felonies, misdemeanors and arrests can also result in visa revocation, as can DUI, theft, drug possession, suspected support of terrorism (including online fundraising), and SEVISfraud. Also, anti-American posts or activities on social networking sitesof visa holders and even the existence of undisclosed social networking sitesaccounts are considered to be evading government scrutiny and are considered grounds for revocation.

DOShas introduced a measure called "Continuous Vetting," and is currently monitoring over 55 million visa holders at any given time. The Ministry of Immigration has been monitoring the visa holders at all times. It is important to note that in some cases visas are revoked without notice. Usually, you will be notified by email, so it is a good idea to regularly check the email address you used when you applied for the DS-160. Also, high-risk F/M/Jvisa holders may want to refrain from international travel for a while.

F/M/JVisa applicants are required to set their social networking accounts as public (Public) rather than private when applying for a visa. The content of the applicant's postings are stored in screenshots and used as screening material, and if the applicant's online activities or statements are deemed "hostile" to the U.S. government, 214(b)they could lead to a denial. Also, as noted above, the applicant's low social networkingactivity or having only a private account is also likely to be a negative factor for the review.

F/M/JVisa holders and applicants are thus subject to particularly strict screening The visa is not only denied due to the application, but also the visa is denied due to the application itself. Not only are visas denied upon application, but even after a visa is issued, there is a risk of visa revocation. Arrests, including DUI. Since remedies after visa revocation are limited, please be careful not to be subject to visa revocation on a regular basis.