The Trump administration is cracking down on travellers by reviewing over 55 million people who have had valid United States visas for any violations that could lead to deportation.
The news was first reported by the Associated Press, who were told by the state department that all foreigners holding a U.S. visa are subject to “continuous vetting” for any indication they could be ineligible for the document.
“The State Department revokes visas any time there are indications of a potential ineligibility, which includes things like any indicators of overstays, criminal activity, threats to public safety, engaging in any form of terrorist activity, or providing support to a terrorist organisation,” a department spokesperson said.
This follows announcements earlier in the week that the Trump administration would be looking for any “anti-American” views on social media when assessing applications of people who want to live in the U.S.
The administration has been imposing more restrictions and requirements for visa holders, including requiring them to submit to in-person interviews.
The reviews will include new tools for data collection on past, present and future visas with a complete scouring of social media sites.
Since being inaugurated as President, Trump’s administration has had a strong focus on deporting illegal migrants to the U.S. and holders of student and visitor exchange visas.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, there were 12.8 million green-card holders and 3.6 million people in the U.S. on temporary visas last year.
The visa reviews will mainly impact those who plan to work or study in the country.
There are some exemptions for short-term tourists or business visits for citizens of countries in the Visa Waiver Program, including Australia. This program allows citizens to stay in the U.S. for up to three months without applying for a visa.
Those entering for 90 days or less would still have to make an application to enter via the U.S. Government’s Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) with a fee of US$121.
However, SmartTraveller warns that an ESTA approval does not guarantee people entry into the country.
"US Customs and Border Protection officials at the port of entry will decide if you can enter the country," SmartTraveller says.
"Authorities have broad powers when deciding if you're eligible to enter and may determine that you are inadmissible for any reason under U.S. law.
"Officials may ask to inspect your electronic devices, emails, text messages or social media accounts.
“If you refuse, they can deny your entry.”
