Not everyone will be eligible for a US Green Card: who will be subject to restrictions on residence permits

The US administration has introduced strict ideological vetting for migrants: any criticism of government policy or participation in protests could result in a refusal. Find out who will now be barred from obtaining a green card

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Obtaining a Green Card in the US has become significantly more difficult following the introduction of strict ideological vetting for migrants. President Donald Trump’s administration has officially recognised criticism of Israel, participation in pro-Palestinian protests and anti-American statements as valid grounds for refusing to grant a residence permit. In this article, we will examine in detail how the new directives from the Department of Homeland Security are changing the immigration process and what exactly officers are looking for in applicants’ backgrounds.

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Who will be denied a green card?

Under the new rules, applicants who publicly criticise Israel’s actions, participate in pro-Palestinian student rallies, or show disrespect for US symbols will be denied a green card. Immigration services now officially regard such actions as anti-American ideology, which is a direct ground for rejecting an application for a residence permit and even revoking existing visas.

What are the grounds for refusing a green card under the new rules?

The main reason for refusal is now the migrant’s political and ideological stance. According to updated training materials from the US Department of Homeland Security, any anti-Semitic or anti-American views are assessed as ‘predominantly negative’ factors during case review.

The authorities’ rationale lies in the strict protection of national interests. Any public display of disrespect towards the US flag or criticism of allied nations is viewed as a potential threat. Due to the implementation of these directives, the number of approved applications for permanent residence has fallen by more than half in recent months, transforming the legal immigration agency into a tool for potential deportation.

Are social media accounts checked when applying for a US visa?

Yes, immigration officers at the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) now thoroughly scan applicants’ social media accounts. Whereas previously the focus was mainly on direct calls for violence or membership of radical parties, now even a routine post on Instagram or X (Twitter) can be grounds for refusal.

Internal guidelines provide specific examples of unacceptable content. A post calling for an end to Israeli terror, particularly if accompanied by an image of a crossed-out flag, automatically puts an end to any immigration prospects. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has already begun applying these rules in practice, revoking visas from international students for columns criticising university policies.

Do they check social media when applying for a US visa?

Yes, immigration officers at the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) now thoroughly scan applicants’ social media.

Whereas previously the focus was mainly on direct calls for violence or membership of radical parties, now even a routine post on Instagram or X (Twitter) can be grounds for refusal.

Internal guidelines provide specific examples of unacceptable content. A post calling for an end to Israeli terror, particularly if accompanied by an image of a crossed-out flag, automatically puts an end to any immigration prospects. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has already begun applying these rules in practice, revoking visas from international students for columns criticising university policies.

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Legal assistance: how to minimise the risk of a green card application being refused?

Amid constantly changing legislation and stricter checks, the risk of making a mistake when submitting documents for a visa or residence permit increases significantly. Any careless action in the past could become an obstacle to your future in the US.

Important: For those planning to move or facing complex legal issues abroad, the Visit Ukraine portal offers expert assistance.

How has US policy towards migrants changed?

US policy has shifted from a document verification process to a strict ideological filter. USCIS officials state outright that there is no place in the country for people who espouse anti-American ideology. Even the positioning of immigration service staff themselves has changed — in new job descriptions, they are referred to as ‘defenders of the homeland’, whose main task is to protect the country’s culture and security.

Human rights activists are sounding the alarm over these changes. Experts note that the administration is deliberately equating political criticism of a foreign government with anti-Semitism. In their view, ideology-based checks contradict fundamental American values and violate the basic right to freedom of speech.

Reminder! The US is tightening its immigration policy and suspending the issuance of immigration visas for citizens of 75 countries. Find out who is affected by the restrictions, what criteria are now being considered, and what this means for applicants.

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