The U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, announced a new policy on Tuesday, March 5, to tighten visa restrictions aimed at foreign officials who facilitate the transit of illegal migrants to U.S. territory. This measure will affect government officials, including immigration and customs agents, airport staff, port authorities, and others responsible for allowing or encouraging irregular migration.
Rubio stated that the initiative seeks to strengthen border security and make the United States a safer, stronger, and more prosperous country. According to him, "Countries along migration routes must do their part to prevent and deter the transit of foreigners seeking to illegally enter the United States."
The visa restriction will apply to those officials who knowingly allow illegal migration by failing to enforce immigration laws or implementing policies that facilitate the transit of irregular migrants. This new regulation complements the 3C policy, expanded in 2024, which sanctions private sector actors providing transport and travel services aimed at people attempting to illegally enter the U.S.
Rubio emphasized that these restrictions will remain in effect until the involved governments take concrete measures to curb the flow of illegal migration. The policy is based on Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which allows for the declaration of inadmissibility for any foreigner whose entry may have adverse consequences for U.S. foreign policy. Additionally, some family members of those affected may also be subject to these restrictions.
