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26 Aug. 2025

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The US is tightening controls: large-scale checks on visa holders and new restrictions

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The US is tightening controls: large-scale checks on visa holders and new restrictions

The US has launched a large-scale check on visa holders. Find out who will be affected by the controls and what risks arise for Ukrainians

Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad
Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad
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The administration of US President Donald Trump has announced a large-scale check on more than 55 million foreigners who have valid US visas. According to the Associated Press, this decision is aimed at identifying possible violations and grounds for deportation. Washington is thus continuing its policy of tightening controls on migrants, even those who are legally in the country.


Who is subject to visa checks in the US?


According to the US State Department, all categories of visas are subject to continuous monitoring, including tourist, student, work, guest, and multiple-entry visas. The checks even apply to green card holders and those currently outside the US.


In fact, the check covers every foreigner who is eligible to enter the country. If any violations or threats are found, the visa may be revoked and the holder deported.


What will be checked?


According to the report, the key parameters of the check are:

● length of stay in the US and compliance with visa requirements;

● criminal or administrative offenses;

● possible threats to public safety;

● possible links to terrorist organizations.


In addition, during interviews at consulates, applicants may be asked to provide access to their social media and messenger accounts. This step is explained by the need to increase security and combat potential risks.




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US visa policy and new restrictions


In parallel with the start of the checks, the US has suspended the issuance of work visas for foreign drivers. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the growing number of migrant workers in the transport sector “reduces the income of American truckers and creates additional risks on the roads.”


However, experts warn that such restrictions could only exacerbate the labor shortage in an industry that has long suffered from a lack of workers. As a result, the US economy risks losing some of its logistics capacity, which could affect prices and the availability of goods.


How will the new rules affect Ukrainians?


For Ukrainians with US visas, the new policy means tighter checks every time they cross the border. Even those who live in the US legally should be aware of the risk of extra checks and possible complications if they break the rules, no matter how small.


This is especially true for student and work visa holders, who often face bureaucratic difficulties. In such cases, it is important to have proper legal support. You can always contact the immigration law experts at Visit Ukraine for assistance. Our lawyers provide professional advice on staying abroad, preparing documents, and avoiding risks that could lead to visa cancellation or deportation.





A large-scale check affecting more than 55 million people could lead to a wave of visa cancellations, an increase in deportations, and make it more difficult to obtain study or work permits in the US. For those planning to travel or stay in the US for a long time, it is important to take the new rules into account and prepare your documents carefully.


We remind you! Tens of thousands of Ukrainians in the US may lose their legal status after the U4U program ends. Read more about who is at risk, what will change, and what chances there are to stay in the country in our previous article.


Photo: Getty Images


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Frequantly
asked questions
Can a US visa be canceled without warning?
Yes, the US has a practice of canceling visas without prior notice if a check reveals a violation of the terms of stay, problems with the law, or other security risks. In such cases, the visa holder will be informed at the border or when attempting to use the visa.
Does social media activity affect a US visa?
What are the consequences of overstaying in the US?

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