Summary
President Donald Trump’s administration has directed U.S. embassies to prioritize visa applications for foreign investors and fans attending big events like the World Cup and Olympics. At the same time, new rules make it harder for highly skilled foreign workers to get H-1B visas if they have been involved in online censorship of Americans.
Key Facts
- U.S. embassies are instructed to give priority to visa applications for foreign investors and sports fans ahead of major events.
- The 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics are included in these prioritized events.
- New screening rules for H-1B visas target applicants suspected of participating in online censorship of Americans.
- Consular officials must prioritize "significant investments" and major sporting events in visa processing.
- Over 400 additional consular officers have been added globally to manage visa demand.
- H-1B visa applications will be closely reviewed for any connections to censorship activities.
- Visa applications related to projects promoting "American re-industrialization" may take precedent over sports-related visas.
- The changes aim to manage an expected rise in international visitors for upcoming events.
