US judge strikes down Trump’s 75-country visa ban

A US federal judge has invalidated a visa ban imposed by the Trump administration, ruling that the policy violates federal law. Judge Jeannette Vargas, presiding in the Southern District of New York, stated that the policy exceeded the authority of State Secretary Marco Rubio. The ban, implemented in January, halted the processing of immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries, citing concerns about potential welfare misuse and public charge status.

However, Vargas ruled that consular officers were improperly directed to deny visas based solely on an applicant's country of origin, regardless of their individual circumstances. The decision vacates any visa denials made under this policy, but the government has the option to appeal the ruling. Trump's immigration crackdown has included various measures aimed at accelerating deportations and limiting border crossings since his return to the White House.