Washington, May 29, 2025: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Wednesday that the United States will begin revoking visas held by Chinese students, particularly those connected to the Chinese Communist Party or engaged in critical fields of study. This measure is part of a broader strategy to enhance national security.
Rubio also indicated that the State Department plans to revise visa criteria to increase scrutiny of all future visa applications from China and Hong Kong. The aim is to tighten controls over individuals who may pose a risk to U.S. interests.
According to data from the Institute of International Education, Chinese nationals constituted the second-largest group of international students in the U.S. during the 2023/2024 academic year, totaling 277,398 students.
Earlier reports revealed that the U.S. Department of State temporarily halted new visa appointment scheduling for student and exchange visitor applicants from China. This pause indicates a comprehensive review of visa policies and procedures.
The move continues a trend initiated under the previous administration, which had expanded social media vetting for foreign students, increased visa revocations, and intensified deportations as part of a broader enforcement agenda.
The Chinese Embassy in Washington has not yet issued a response to these developments.
