WASHINGTON—The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it will now consider antisemitic behavior—including online harassment and physical intimidation of Jewish individuals—as grounds for denying immigration benefits. The policy will apply to applicants for lawful permanent residency, foreign students, and individuals tied to institutions associated with antisemitism.
The move aligns with executive orders issued under former President Donald Trump, including measures to combat antisemitism and enhance national security against foreign threats. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated it will rigorously enforce immigration laws to exclude extremists and individuals linked to antisemitic terrorism, violent ideologies, or designated terrorist groups such as Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Hezbollah, and the Houthis.
“There is no place in the United States for those who sympathize with terrorism,” said DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin. “If anyone believes they can exploit the First Amendment to promote antisemitic violence, they are mistaken. Such individuals are not welcome here.”
Under the new guidance, USCIS will scrutinize social media activity—including endorsements or support for antisemitic violence or extremist groups—as a negative factor in immigration decisions. The policy takes effect immediately.
The measure underscores the Biden administration’s continued focus on countering domestic and foreign extremism while enforcing strict vetting protocols for immigrants and visa applicants.
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