The Trump administration plans to revoke the non-immigrant visas of foreigners who have applied for or are currently seeking asylum status in the U.S., marking its latest step in a sweeping immigration crackdown. The move, announced on Monday, targets individuals who have entered the country on business or tourist visas but then filed for asylum to stay permanently.
Visa Revocation Plans Unveiled
The State Department said it is coordinating with the Department of Homeland Security to identify and revoke the non-immigrant visas of foreigners who have come to the United States claiming to be short-term visitors, but then file for asylum to stay here permanently. The State Department statement did not specify the number of visas that will be revoked in the process.
Largest Mass Revocation in U.S. History?
The Associated Press put the number of foreigners whose business and tourism visas are planned to be revoked at up to 200,000, which, if materialized, would be the largest single mass revocation of visas in U.S. history. The AP cited State Department documents and two U.S. officials. The visa revocations would not necessarily result in immediate deportation, the AP report said, adding that most of those with asylum cases currently pending would be re-categorized but would lose their status as business or tourism travelers.
B1 and B2 Visas in the Crosshairs
The B1 and B2 non-immigrant visas, issued for business and tourist travel, are set to be revoked for those who have sought asylum or are now seeking asylum. The State Department will revoke these visas issued between 2016 and 2026, according to the AP report.
Immigration Crackdown Continues
The Trump administration's immigration crackdown has been underway for some time, with the State Department saying earlier this month that it has revoked more than 175,000 visas of foreign nationals under the Trump administration. Trump has pursued an immigration crackdown that includes visa and green card revocations and an aggressive deportation drive. He says the crackdown aims to improve domestic security.
Rights Groups Speak Out
Rights groups have spoken out against the crackdown, saying it has violated free speech and due process rights and created an unsafe environment, particularly for ethnic minorities. They have raised concerns about racial profiling. The government's crackdown has faced legal challenges, but the Trump administration has continued to push forward with its plans.
What Happens Next?
The visa revocation plans are set to be implemented, and it remains to be seen how many individuals will be affected. The process is likely to be complex and may take some time to unfold. As the situation develops, Accra Posts will provide updates on this story.
Source: Joy Online
