U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has reiterated the Trump administration’s strict stance on immigration and visa policies. Since starting his second term, President Donald Trump has taken tough measures against undocumented immigrants, ordering their deportation and revoking birthright citizenship. The U.S. visa process has also become more stringent.
In an editorial published by Fox News, Secretary Rubio emphasized that U.S. visas are not for everyone—they are a special privilege reserved for those who respect American laws and values.
Amid recent campus unrest and growing concerns over global terrorism, Rubio clarified the administration’s uncompromising visa policy. He pointed out the administration’s hardline approach against pro-Palestinian protests in the United States.
Since January, many foreign students have been deported, and numerous visas have been canceled. U.S. universities have also been warned of reduced federal funding if they support pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
Rubio stated, “Visiting the U.S. is not a right; it is a special opportunity for those who honor our laws and values. Visas are for people who want to contribute to the country—not for those seeking to undermine it from within.”
Regarding the administration’s zero-tolerance policy, Rubio added, “I will never hesitate to take decisive action if there is evidence that a visa holder poses a threat to our national security, violates American law, or should have their visa revoked for any reason.”
Before taking up his current role, Rubio served as the U.S. Senator from Florida from 2011 to 2025. He cited the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which deems individuals who promote or support terrorism—including backing organizations like Hamas—as ineligible for U.S. visas.