The United States government has announced a new policy that allows immigration authorities to examine social media content when reviewing visa and residency applications.
The move is part of a wider effort to restrict entry to individuals perceived to support groups that the US classifies as terrorist organisations.
The announcement came from the Department of Homeland Security, stating that individuals who post messages considered supportive of groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, or the Houthis could face visa cancellations or be denied permanent residency. The policy has taken effect immediately and applies to both student visas and Green Card applications.
Authorities say they will treat posts showing any form of endorsement, promotion, or defence of these groups — or content viewed as anti-Semitic — as a negative factor in immigration decisions. This comes as the administration under President Trump moves to strengthen measures against what it sees as growing threats linked to online advocacy for violence.
Critics argue that the new rules could infringe on freedom of speech, as guaranteed by the US Constitution. Civil liberties groups are raising concerns, saying that peaceful political expression might be unfairly penalised. The First Amendment, which protects free speech, is at the center of the debate.
The Trump administration has already drawn criticism for earlier steps to revoke student visas under similar grounds. Immigration officials insist this latest move targets only those who support or promote violence or terrorism, not those engaging in lawful dissent or criticism.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services will now monitor online activity more closely as part of the application review process. Immigration experts say this shift could result in more denials and deportations based on digital content, even from years ago.
The government has made it clear: expressing online support for groups listed by the US as terrorist organisations — no matter where a person lives — may now carry consequences for anyone seeking to study, live, or remain in the country.