Trump Visa Policy for 75 Countries Overturned by Federal Judge

A federal judge has vacated a Trump administration policy that suspended the processing of visas from 75 countries, including Afghanistan, Iran, Russia, and Somalia. The policy was deemed likely to require public assistance in the United States.

US District Judge Jeannette Vargas ruled that Secretary of State Marco Rubio exceeded his authority by issuing the policy, which undermines congressional requirements for visa decisions. Consular officers are responsible for determining eligibility based on specific criteria set forth in the statute.

The judge stated that the policy 'runs afoul' of the Immigration and Nationality Act by mandating the refusal of visas without any basis in law.