Trump adds ‘anti-American’ test for visa, green card; How will it impact Indians?

Washington: The Trump administration has introduced yet another measure targeting immigration, directing officers to screen visa and green card applicants for signs of “anti-Americanism.”

The new directive also allows officials to check social media activity more closely, raising concerns among thousands of Indian students and professionals who view the US as a destination for education and career growth.

What does the new policy say?

According to the latest policy update by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), America’s immigration agency, “Anti-American activity will be an overwhelmingly negative factor in any discretionary analysis.”

This now means that the outcome of visa, green card, or even citizenship applications may depend on whether an immigration officer interprets a person’s past or present views as sufficiently “pro-American.”

How will applicants be screened?

Under the revised rules, immigration officers will investigate whether applicants have had “any involvement in anti-American or terrorist organisations,” or if there is “any evidence of antisemitic activity.”

The Trump administration had already extended social media checks for immigration files since June. With the latest change, these online searches will now also include looking for potential “anti-American activity.”

Who will be affected?

The decision is expected to impact new immigrants and international students the most. For many Indian applicants, the policy could result in greater uncertainty, as their acceptance into the United States will hinge on the personal evaluation of immigration officials.

Observers fear that such vague criteria could discourage applicants, affecting not just families but also professionals and students hoping to study or work in the country.

What has the administration done recently on student visas?

The announcement comes shortly after several tough decisions by the Trump administration on student visas.

Earlier this week, the US government confirmed that the State Department had revoked more than 6,000 student visas this year. Before that, embassies and consulates were asked to scrutinise applicants for “hostile attitudes towards our citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles.”

This is the latest in a series of regulatory crackdowns aimed at tightening immigration. Analysts believe the expanded checks and emphasis on “anti-Americanism” could create significant hurdles for both aspiring immigrants and those already on temporary visas.

(With agency inputs)