United States: New restrictions on all US visa holders

Event

Media sources reported that on Monday, September 18, that the US Department of State issued stricter rules for all individuals requiring visas to visit the US. Individuals holding US visas will reportedly be punished if they deviate from the purpose of their visit mentioned in visa interviews with consular officials. Those caught in violation of their stated plans during their first three months in the country will be treated as a having "willfully misrepresented" their intentions. Violating the new policy will make it difficult to renew a visa or change visa status, and individuals still present in the US may even be eligible for deportation. Individuals who change plans after three months may still encounter problems with visa renewal, but will not be treated as having deliberately lied during the visa application process.

Context

Previously, only a change in plans within the first month in the US were deemed a willful misrepresentation of intentions to consular officials.

The revision of visa rules comes as part of President Donald Trump administration's plans to strengthen border security and tighten restrictions on immigration.

Advice

Travelers requiring US visas are advised to contact their nearest US consulate for further details.