US to deny visas, immigration benefits over antisemitic activities
Updated: Apr 10th, 2025
The United States has announced a significant change in immigration policy, stating that individuals found engaging in antisemitic activity including social media posts and physical harassment may be denied visas, green cards, and other immigration benefits.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will now consider antisemitic behavior a negative factor when evaluating immigration requests. This applies immediately to foreign nationals applying for lawful permanent residence, student visas, and those affiliated with educational institutions involved in antisemitic incidents.
The move follows executive orders issued under former President Donald Trump, including measures aimed at combating antisemitism and protecting national security.
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the updated policy targets individuals who promote or support antisemitic terrorist organisations or ideologies, including Hamas, Hezbollah, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and Ansar Allah (also known as the Houthis). The DHS emphasised that support for these groups will weigh heavily against applicants during the immigration review process.
In a strong statement, DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin said the US has no obligation to admit or harbour individuals who advocate for antisemitic violence or align with terrorist sympathisers.
As per the guidance, social media content that reveals support for antisemitic terrorism or affiliated organizations will be used as evidence in discretionary immigration decisions. The USCIS has already begun enforcing the new policy.
This measure is being framed as part of a broader effort to safeguard US national security and uphold protections against hate-based extremism.
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