The United States government has announced new visa restrictions targeting foreign officials and individuals involved in censoring Americans abroad. Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed the policy on May 28, 2025, emphasizing a firm stance against foreign interference that undermines the free speech rights of US citizens.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Rubio condemned actions by foreign authorities who have fined, harassed, or charged Americans for exercising their constitutional rights. "Foreigners who work to undermine the rights of Americans should not enjoy the privilege of traveling to our country," Rubio said, highlighting that such conduct will no longer be tolerated, whether in Latin America, Europe, or elsewhere.
"For too long, Americans have been fined, harassed, and even charged by foreign authorities for exercising their free speech rights.
Today, I am announcing a new visa restriction policy that will apply to foreign officials and persons who are complicit in censoring Americans."
— Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio)
Rubio further criticized foreign officials who issue or threaten arrest warrants against US citizens or residents for social media content posted within the United States. He also denounced demands made by foreign agents for American technology platforms to moderate content in ways that suppress American expression.
While the Secretary of State confirmed the policy's implementation is underway, detailed procedures and scope remain to be disclosed.
Separately, earlier on the same day, the US State Department instructed American embassies worldwide to suspend scheduling new student visa interviews, temporarily halting appointments for international student and exchange visitor visas (F, M, and J categories) until further notice.
This decisive move underscores the US commitment to protecting its citizens' fundamental rights and responding assertively to foreign censorship efforts.
