Stricter Visas to Block Terrorists and Safety Risks at Borders
Published Date: 1/30/2025
Presidential Document
Summary
The U.S. is stepping up its game to keep out foreign terrorists and anyone who might threaten our safety or values. This means tougher, smarter checks for anyone applying for visas or already here, making sure they’re not a risk before they enter or stay. These changes start right away and involve multiple agencies working together, with no extra cost to travelers but big gains for national security.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 5 costs, 0 mixed.
60‑day report could suspend admissions
Within 60 days, senior agencies must submit a joint report identifying countries whose vetting information is so deficient that it may warrant a partial or full suspension of admissions under INA section 212(f) (8 U.S.C. 1182(f)), and must report how many nationals from those countries have entered or been admitted on or since January 20, 2021.
Immediate exclusion or removal authority
The order directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to take immediate steps to exclude or remove any alien when information supports exclusion or removal under the order, unless doing so would inhibit a significant pending investigation or prosecution or would be contrary to national security interests.
Stricter vetting for visa applicants
If you are a non‑citizen seeking admission to the United States or already present, federal agencies are ordered to 'promptly' vet and screen you "to the maximum degree possible" and to re‑establish a uniform baseline for screening consistent with the baseline that existed on January 19, 2021.
Tighter rules for inadmissibility and refugees
Within 30 days, agencies must evaluate and adjust regulations, policies, and Foreign Service Manual guidance related to the grounds of inadmissibility in INA sections 212(a)(2)‑(3); ensure refugees and stateless individuals undergo identification verification beyond that required of other aliens; and evaluate all visa programs for misuse by hostile actors.
Review of assimilation and protective measures
Agencies are ordered to evaluate programs designed to ensure the proper assimilation of lawful immigrants and to recommend additional measures that promote a unified American identity and attachment to the Constitution, laws, and founding principles of the United States.
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