Washington, D.C. — The U.S. Department of State has announced the imposition of visa restrictions on owners, executives, and senior officials of India-based travel agencies accused of knowingly facilitating illegal immigration to the United States.
In a statement released Monday, the State Department said that the restrictions target individuals involved in smuggling and trafficking operations uncovered by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India. The effort, led by the Consular Affairs and Diplomatic Security Service at Mission India, aims to disrupt networks that enable unlawful entry into the U.S.
“We will continue to take steps to impose visa restrictions against owners, executives, and senior officials of travel agencies to cut off alien smuggling networks,” the statement said.
The new visa policy underscores the U.S. government’s intent to hold not only unauthorized migrants accountable, but also those who assist or profit from illegal immigration. The department noted that this enforcement action is being carried out under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
The visa restrictions apply globally and include individuals who might otherwise be eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, which permits short-term travel to the U.S. without a visa.
“Enforcing U.S. immigration laws and policies is critical to upholding the rule of law and protecting Americans,” the statement read, highlighting a broader policy aimed at both deterrence and enforcement.
The move reflects an ongoing U.S. effort to combat human trafficking and illegal immigration by targeting facilitators abroad, particularly those operating under the guise of legitimate travel services.
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