The United States is facing a severe fentanyl crisis, with overdoses being the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 44. Reports indicate that over 40 percent of Americans know someone who has died from an opioid overdose, and in 2024, the country averaged more than 220 overdose deaths daily.
In response to this crisis, a new visa restriction policy has been announced under section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This policy will target family members and close personal and business associates of individuals sanctioned under Executive Order 14059, which imposes sanctions on foreign persons involved in the global illicit drug trade.
This action builds on existing measures, including sanctions under E.O. 14059 and visa ineligibilities pursuant to section 212(a)(2)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act for controlled substance traffickers. The imposition of visa restrictions aims not only to prevent these individuals from entering the United States but also to deter continued illicit activities.
"The U.S. Department of State will use all necessary tools to deter and dismantle the flow of fentanyl and other illicit drugs from entering the United States and harming U.S. citizens," stated an official announcement.
