The United States government has initiated a comprehensive crackdown on immigration, resulting in a record-setting number of visa revocations under the Donald Trump administration. In 2025, the administration revoked over 100,000 visas, a figure that not only doubled the total number of revocations in 2024 under the Joe Biden administration but also represented a 150 percent increase compared to 2024, thereby establishing a new record for visa cancellations.

Disclosures made by the State Department on X revealed that approximately 8,000 student visas were revoked during this period. Additionally, 2,500 specialized worker visas were canceled for individuals who had lost their legal status due to prior criminal records. While these specific categories were targeted, the majority of revocations were issued to business and tourist travelers identified as having overstayed their permitted visa duration. The US Department underscored its commitment to national safety, stating, "The State Department has now revoked over 100,000 visas, including some 8,000 student visas and 2,500 specialised visas for individuals who had encounters with U.S. law enforcement for criminal activity. We will continue to deport these thugs to keep America safe."

Deputy spokesperson Tommy Pigott identified the four principal causes for these revocations as overstays, driving under the influence (DUI), assault, and theft. Beyond these general reasons, the administration also specifically targeted students who had participated in protests supporting Palestine, alleging expressions of antisemitic behavior. In August alone, the State Department revoked the visas of more than 6,000 international students under this premise. The administration further clarified its position, asserting, "Every single student visa revoked under the Trump Administration has happened because the individual has either broken the law or expressed support for terrorism while in the United States."

The stringent immigration policy extended beyond revocations to include stricter visa issuance protocols. This involved tightened social media vetting and expanded screening processes, measures that have notably impacted nationals from various countries, including Nigerians. Furthermore, new travel restrictions were imposed on Nigeria and several other African countries, citing heightened security concerns and difficulties in the vetting process of their nationals. These restrictions specifically barred entry for Nigerians seeking to enter the US as green card holders or on B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas.

Adding another layer of stringency, the administration introduced a requirement for Nigerians seeking B1/B2 visas to post bonds of up to $15,000 before being granted entry. This comprehensive and intensified approach reflects a significant strategic shift in US immigration policy under the current administration, emphasizing heightened scrutiny and enforcement across various visa categories.