People applying to live or work in the United States will now be screened for “anti-Americanism,” including having their social media checked, authorities announced on Tuesday, in a tightening of restrictions that has alarmed immigration advocates and lawyers.
Immigration officers will be able to look at whether applicants have had “any involvement in anti-American or terrorist organizations,” or whether there is any “evidence of antisemitic activity,” said the policy update by US Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS).
Social media vetting, already introduced into immigration screening in June by the Trump administration, will be expanded to include searches for any “anti-American activity,” it said.
It’s the latest step in the administration’s crackdown on immigration regulations, with many new actions likely to deter immigrants and international students from coming to the US.
The State Department has revoked more than 6,000 student visas this year, an official said on Monday. And in June, the State Department said embassies and consulates must vet student visa applicants for “hostile attitudes towards our citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles.”
