The United States Department of State has introduced changes to non-immigrant visa procedures, adding two new questions that could impact approval chances for applicants worldwide.
According to reports highlighted by The Guardian, visa officers will now ask applicants whether they have faced harm or mistreatment in their home country and whether they fear returning.
New questions may affect visa approvals
Officials say the purpose of these questions is to assess whether applicants intend to return to their home country after their temporary stay in the United States.
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If an applicant answers “yes” to either question, or refuses to respond, their chances of visa rejection may significantly increase.
The policy applies to all non-immigrant visa categories, including tourist, student, and work visas such as H-1B, as well as visas for business travelers and agricultural workers.
Reason behind the policy change
Authorities say the move comes amid rising concerns over individuals entering the US on temporary visas and later seeking asylum.
The updated screening process aims to identify applicants who may have intentions of not returning and instead applying for asylum after arrival.
Concerns raised by legal experts
Legal experts have expressed concern that the new policy could negatively impact genuine applicants who face real threats in their home countries.
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They argue that individuals fleeing domestic violence, religious persecution, or threats to journalists may be unfairly penalized during visa interviews.
Experts also noted that under the 1951 Refugee Convention, the right to seek asylum is not dependent on statements made during visa interviews or the mode of entry into a country.
Background and implications
Data from the US State Department shows that around 11 million non-immigrant visas were issued in 2024 across various categories.
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The new questions mark a stricter approach in visa screening, reflecting broader immigration policy shifts aimed at controlling asylum claims and ensuring compliance with temporary visa conditions.
While officials maintain that the changes are necessary for immigration control, critics warn that the policy could discourage legitimate travelers and affect those genuinely in need of protection.
