Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s December 2025 Press Remarks: Key Immigration Takeaways
On December 19, 2025, Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed members of the press and responded to questions on several immigration-related topics, including visa processing, religious worker immigration matters, and the Diversity Visa Lottery program.
During the briefing, Secretary Rubio discussed issues involving religious worker green card backlogs, visa revocations, and the temporary suspension of the Diversity Visa Lottery program. His remarks provide insight into current immigration policy priorities and possible procedural changes that may affect visa applicants, employers, and foreign nationals seeking entry to the United States.
Religious Worker Green Card Backlogs
Secretary Rubio acknowledged ongoing concerns regarding delays in immigration processing for religious workers and indicated that steps would be taken to address those delays.
Following the briefing, the Department of Homeland Security issued an Interim Final Rule titled “Improving Continuity for Religious Organizations and their Employees.”
The rule eliminates a prior requirement that certain R-1 religious workers who reached the maximum period of authorized stay must depart the United States and remain abroad for one year before seeking readmission in R-1 status.
According to DHS, removing this requirement is intended to reduce disruptions for religious organizations and provide greater continuity for employees serving in religious occupations.
Visa Revocations
Secretary Rubio also addressed the State Department’s authority to revoke visas after issuance.
According to his remarks, the government revoked approximately 60,000 to 70,000 visas during 2025. These actions involved both individuals already present in the United States and individuals seeking to reenter the country.
The Secretary explained that visa determinations are closely tied to national security and national interest considerations. A visa may be revoked when:
- New information becomes available after visa issuance
- An individual engages in conduct viewed as inconsistent with U.S. national interests
- Government agencies identify security or compliance concerns after admission to the United States
Secretary Rubio stated that a visa is considered a discretionary benefit under U.S. immigration law and may be revoked when circumstances justify further action.
Temporary Suspension of the Diversity Visa Lottery Program
The briefing also included discussion of the Diversity Visa Lottery program.
The Administration announced a temporary suspension of the program while federal agencies review existing screening and vetting procedures. The review reportedly follows concerns raised after a criminal matter involving an individual who had obtained lawful permanent residence through the program.
Officials indicated that the suspension is intended to allow agencies to evaluate whether additional safeguards or procedural changes are necessary before the program resumes.
National Interest and Visa Adjudications
Throughout the press conference, Secretary Rubio emphasized that visa adjudications should align with U.S. national security and foreign policy interests.
He noted that consular officers regularly deny visa applications at U.S. embassies and consulates based on interview responses, background checks, and other available information. He further stated that if the government has authority to deny a visa application initially, it may also revoke a visa if new concerns arise after issuance.
Key Takeaways
Secretary Rubio’s remarks reflect several ongoing immigration policy priorities, including increased scrutiny of visa holders, potential reforms to existing immigration programs, and efforts to address processing issues affecting religious workers.
As federal agencies continue reviewing immigration procedures and enforcement priorities, additional policy updates and procedural changes may follow in the coming months.
Individuals and organizations affected by these developments may wish to monitor future announcements from the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security.
To discuss how these developments may affect your situation, you may schedule a consultation with the Law Office of Jacqueline Lentini, LLC by calling 630-262-1435 or emailing jacki@lentinivisas.com.
