Trump Administration Expands Visa Screening

The United States government under President Trump is significantly increasing its screening of visa holders, raising concerns among foreign nationals and prompting debate about the potential effects on the US economy. 

A comprehensive review involving more than 55 million visa holders is now underway. The State Department has confirmed that all visa holders—both those currently residing in the US and those abroad with multi-entry permissions—are subject to ongoing scrutiny. This review monitors various factors, including visa overstays, criminal records, threats to public safety, and possible links to terrorist organisations. 

Visas can be revoked without prior notice if concerning information is discovered, and individuals living in the US may face deportation as a result. This new policy marks a considerable intensification compared to earlier efforts, which mainly targeted students and exchange visitors suspected of political activities contrary to American interests. The latest initiative applies continuous monitoring to all visa categories, regardless of the holder’s nationality. 

Experts are questioning the practicality and resource demands of managing such an extensive operation, particularly given the large number of people outside the United States involved. Some analysts, such as Julia Gelatt from the Migration Policy Institute, have expressed doubts about the value of scrutinising tourists and short-term visitors. She suggests this may divert attention from more urgent enforcement priorities, saying, "It’s unclear what benefit there is in monitoring people who may never return."

In a related development, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced a suspension on issuing work visas to commercial truck drivers. He cites concerns about public safety and competition with American workers, claiming that the increasing number of foreign truckers threatens both lives and jobs. This follows new English language proficiency requirements linking language skills to a reduction in traffic accidents.

The State Department maintains that suspending trucker visas is part of a wider effort to ensure all commercial drivers meet strict safety standards. However, critics warn that these restrictions could worsen labour shortages in the logistics industry. Edward Alden, senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, views the move as part of a broader strategy to discourage hiring foreign workers and warns of economic repercussions beyond trucking.