The Trump administration has unveiled a new immigration enforcement strategy known as the “catch and revoke” policy, signaling a tough stance on visa holders who violate U.S. laws. This policy could lead to the immediate revocation of immigration status for non-citizens found guilty of any legal infraction, regardless of its severity.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio introduced the zero-tolerance approach in an official communication from the State Department. The message was clear: holding a U.S. visa is considered a privilege, not a guaranteed right. The administration emphasized a sharp departure from previous policies, particularly criticizing the Biden-era “Catch and Release” system, which often allowed undocumented immigrants charged with crimes like domestic violence and assault to remain in the country pending further proceedings.
Under the new “one-strike” rule, any non-citizen—including those on temporary work visas such as the H-1B, student visas like the F-1, or even short-term visitor visas—could lose their legal status following a single legal offense. The administration’s message is unambiguous: anyone violating U.S. law while on a temporary visa risks immediate deportation and the loss of their right to remain in the country.
The new rules have also prompted increased scrutiny by immigration authorities. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has reportedly begun issuing more Requests for Evidence in cases involving employment-based immigration, especially where there may be adverse information linked to an applicant. Employers and foreign professionals may find their petitions subjected to greater delays and additional documentation demands as a result.
Rubio further noted that the U.S. government is prioritizing national security by strictly enforcing provisions in the Immigration and Nationality Act. Specifically, the law bars entry to individuals who promote or support terrorism or advocate on behalf of terrorist organizations. According to the State Department, student visa holders are now being vetted more aggressively, with visas revoked immediately if links to such activities are uncovered.
This renewed enforcement reflects the administration’s intent to tighten immigration controls and send a clear message: violations of U.S. law, regardless of visa type or duration of stay, will no longer be tolerated.
