Gov. Stitt responds to reports of international student visa revocation in Oklahoma

Governor Kevin Stitt addressed recent reports of revoked visas for international students attending Oklahoma universities during a press conference this week. Gov. Stitt stated that while the state had no prior knowledge of the decisions, he trusted the federal government’s judgment on such matters.

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News 9's previous coverage reported at least eight students at Oklahoma State University, four at the University of Central Oklahoma, and several others across the state have had their education-related visas revoked. These revocations have sparked concern among university leaders and state residents, as many international students contribute significantly to academic research, athletics, and university funding through full tuition payments.

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“The feds control those visas,” Stitt said. “We don’t really have any control. It’s not like we can say, ‘Hey, don’t revoke this visa.’”

Governor Stitt emphasized that the state had not been informed ahead of the federal action and that the reasons behind the revocations were not yet clear. However, he voiced confidence in federal authorities, particularly President Donald Trump, asserting that revocations are not done arbitrarily.

“There is either some kind of criminal activity or something happening with those visas that they say is a danger to the United States of America,” Stitt said. “I totally trust President Trump that they vetted those.”

Stitt also pointed to growing national concern over campus protests and student behavior, suggesting that some of the actions may be related to broader issues of campus unrest.

“We see these crazies doing some kind of crazy protests and anti-Semitism,” Stitt said. “If you’re going to be knuckleheads and criminals, me and every Oklahoman — at least the Oklahomans I know — want those people out of our state and out of our country.”

While the governor expressed support for bringing international talent to Oklahoma’s universities, he reiterated that visa status is a privilege, and students must contribute positively to society and follow U.S. laws.

Stitt also renewed his call for more state-level control over employment-based permits, saying Oklahoma leaders are better positioned to understand and respond to local workforce needs.

As of now, no further details have been released about the specific reasons for the student visa revocations. University officials have not issued formal responses, but the situation continues to draw attention as students and faculty seek clarity on the impact and future implications.

RELATED: Oklahoma Senator raises concerns over sudden visa revocations for international students