Trump Visa Policy for 75 Countries Struck Down by Federal Judge

A federal judge has struck down the Trump administration's policy that suspended immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries, citing that it was contrary to law and exceeded statutory authority.

The policy, announced by the State Department in January, instructed U.S. embassies and consulates to suspend immigrant visa adjudications while the department reassessed its vetting procedures under existing immigration law.

U.S. District Judge Jeannette A. Vargas said that the policy conflicts with federal immigration law, which gives consular officers 'exclusive authority and discretion' to determine whether an immigrant is eligible for a visa.

The judge's order also vacates visa denials that were based solely on the policy, affecting those who were separated from their families while following the legal immigration process.

Catholic Legal Immigration Network Inc. executive director Anna Gallagher stated that 'the suspension of lawful visa processing across 75 countries separated spouses, parents, and children who were simply following the legal immigration process,' adding that this decision affirms both values and the rule of law.