Applicants for visas to the United States will now have to affirm that they do not fear persecution in their home countries as the Trump administration seeks to further restrict potential asylum seeks from entering the country.
The new rule, outlined in a diplomatic cable to all embassies and consulates this week, comes amid a sweeping shift in policies that have upended and restricted immigration to the US.
The administration had already increased vetting for student visa applicants, and it has temporarily paused decisions on immigration applications to ensure that they meet newly rolled out security check guidance, according to a source familiar with the situation and an internal memo.
The rule applies for those applying for nonimmigrant visas, which include those for tourists, students and temporary workers. In January, the US suspended immigrant visa processing for 75 countries.
“Consular officers must prevent abuse of the immigration system by visa applicants who misrepresent their purpose of travel, including those who attempt to obtain nonimmigrant visas for the purpose of claiming asylum upon arrival in the United States,” said the cable, which was reviewed by CNN.
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