The US government announced a global visa restriction policy designed to deny entry to individuals involved in cybercrime and related offenses, as well as their immediate family members. The policy is enacted under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act and was announced on or before July 24, 2026, aligning with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s regional visits.
Cybercrime Losses and Targeted Offenses
US officials estimate that Americans lost at least $10 billion to online investment scams in 2024. The new visa restrictions specifically target crimes such as online investment scams and sextortion, which fall under cyber-enabled offenses. The policy aims to deny
visas to foreign nationals responsible for or complicit in these cybercrimes to mitigate ongoing fraud losses.
Chinese-linked Cybercrime Networks and US Agency Actions
Chinese transnational criminal organizations are frequently linked to the cybercrime operations addressed by the policy. US agencies including CISA, FBI, and NSA have identified Chinese-linked actors involved in persistent cyber espionage campaigns labeled “Salt Typhoon” and “Volt Typhoon.” These campaigns focus on gaining long-term access to telecommunications and critical infrastructure for intelligence collection and potential disruption during future crises.
Visa System Tightening and Prior Restrictions
This visa policy complements broader tightening measures in the US visa system. The State Department has enhanced online presence vetting for student and exchange visitor
applicants and expanded visa bonds for some business and tourist applicants from countries with overstay risks. Earlier restrictions in February 2024 targeted individuals involved in the misuse of commercial spyware, including measures against persons complicit in political violence and cartel networks. Visa restrictions have previously included immediate family members of such persons to disrupt criminal enterprises.
Official Statements and International Cooperation
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated, “By restricting visa issuance to those who are responsible for or complicit in these criminal enterprises, we are sending a clear message: The United States will go after those who prey on our citizens.” Rubio confirmed the
policy includes offenders and their families involved in cyberscams and sextortion. The policy aligns with President Trump’s Executive Order 14390 issued in March 2026 on combating cybercrime, fraud, and predatory schemes.
The State Department and FBI have increased cooperation with Southeast Asian nations, including engagements during Rubio’s 2026 visit to the Philippines and meetings with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). FBI Director Kash Patel has engaged Southeast Asian leaders on combating scam operations. The U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime has reported on regional syndicates that integrate drug production, cyber-enabled fraud, trafficking, underground banking, and real estate investment
within shared infrastructure. These US efforts extend to coordination with African countries to target international cybercrime and fraud networks.
Visa adjudications are considered national security decisions, forming one part of a broader US government approach alongside prosecutions, sanctions, and asset seizures aimed at disrupting transnational cybercrime. Enhanced visa vetting and expanded restrictions to immediate family members aim to cut off access for criminal operatives seeking entry to the United States.
