The United States may refuse visas if applicants show signs of being “anti-American,” according to a recent policy announced by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The agency stated that activities viewed as against the country will be “an overwhelmingly negative factor in any discretionary analysis.”

This means anyone applying for a student visa, work visa, green card, or US citizenship could face denial if an officer believes they do not hold pro-American views.

USCIS Policy Details

USCIS spokesman Matthew Tragesser said, "America’s benefits should not be given to those who despise the country and promote anti-American ideologies. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is committed to implementing policies and procedures that root out anti-Americanism and supporting the enforcement of rigorous screening and vetting measures to the fullest extent possible."

He added, “Immigration benefits—including to live and work in the United States—remain a privilege, not a right.”

The policy instructs officers to examine whether applicants have “endorsed, promoted, supported, or otherwise espoused” views of terrorist organizations or ideologies that are anti-American, antisemitic, or linked to antisemitic terrorism.

Context: Trump-Era Policy Changes

This move is part of a series of USCIS policy changes under the Trump administration.

• In April, USCIS announced it would monitor social media accounts of international students and other visa applicants. Those seen as antisemitic could be denied visas, including H-1B visas.

• In mid-June, USCIS resumed visa interviews for F, M, and J visa holders but required applicants to make their social media accounts public.

• USCIS also redefined “good moral character” for citizenship. Officers now evaluate an applicant’s overall conduct, including negative behavior (misdemeanors, DUIs, unpaid taxes) and positive history (education, employment).

Concerns from Immigration Attorneys

Many immigration lawyers warn that visa approvals and citizenship decisions are becoming more subjective. Much depends on the discretion of individual officers.

Cyrus D Mehta, a New York-based immigration attorney, criticized the policy’s vagueness. He asked:
"How does the USCIS define ‘anti-American’? Being critical of the Trump administration—or any administration—should not be deemed anti-American. Indeed, it should be considered a virtuous activity. Criticism and dissent help us reflect, self-correct, and grow."

Another attorney posted sarcastically on social media:
"USCIS to deny green cards if applicants don’t clap loud enough for the national anthem; The Trump Administration has issued a new rule requiring immigrants to pretend they like ranch dressing..."