Trump Administration Rolls Out New Immigration Policy: "Catch and Revoke" Rule
In a dramatic escalation of its immigration enforcement agenda, the Trump administration has introduced a new policy that enables the US government to revoke the visas of foreign nationals—students, workers, and visitors alike—for even minor legal infractions.
The "Catch and Revoke" Directive
The "Catch and Revoke" directive, unveiled by Secretary of State Marco Rubio in the April 30 edition of the State Department newsletter, introduces a strict one-strike rule. Rubio stated, "Whenever the government catches non-US citizens breaking our laws, we will take action to revoke their status," calling a visa "a privilege, not a right."
Backlash and Controversy
While the policy outlines priority revocations for crimes like domestic violence and assault, its broad and ambiguous language has drawn backlash. Aaron Reichlin-Melnick of the American Immigration Council said, "They stripped student visas from people for speeding tickets. Now they’re suggesting they’ll do the same to everyone."
Targeting Foreign Students
The policy also singles out foreign students allegedly supporting Hamas or joining pro-Palestinian campus protests. Rubio blamed the Biden administration for failing to protect Jewish students during recent unrest on campuses. "They allowed campus buildings to be overrun by violent thugs," he wrote.
Student Visa Restrictions
Rubio said student visa holders found to support or endorse terrorist groups would be deemed inadmissible. The policy builds on intelligence-sharing with law enforcement to identify and cancel such visas immediately.
Broader Reforms
The new rule is part of broader reforms under Trump’s second term. In his 100-day statement, Rubio claimed the State Department had transformed into "a leaner machine" by dismantling offices like the Global Engagement Center, cutting funding to NGOs, and streamlining operations to eliminate bureaucracy.
Additional Executive Actions
Additional executive actions include requiring US universities to disclose all foreign funding sources or risk losing federal support, measures aimed squarely at international students and institutions seen as sympathetic to America’s adversaries.
Legal Resistance
Legal resistance is already underway. Several visa revocations have been reversed in court, and more challenges are expected. Civil liberties groups argue the policy could violate due process and chill free speech.
Secretary Rubio’s Statement
Secretary Rubio was sworn in on January 21, 2025. "With an impending reorganization that will unleash the Department’s talent from the ground-up," he concluded, "the State Department is set to continue to play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety, security, and prosperity of the American people."
Conclusion
The Trump administration’s new immigration policy, the "Catch and Revoke," has sparked controversy and legal challenges. As the administration continues to implement its broader America First strategy, the future of visa revocations remains uncertain.
Reference : https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/one-strike-and-youre-out-trumps-harsh-catch-and-revoke-rule-could-cost-foreign-students-their-visa-over-minor-offenses/articleshow/120862322.cms
