Overview

• The directive instructs U.S. embassies and consulates to refuse nonimmigrant visas for all otherwise eligible applicants using Palestinian Authority passports, including students, tourists, business travelers and medical patients.
• Immigrant visas are not covered, and applicants using a different passport, Palestinians with dual nationality, or those holding already issued valid U.S. visas are reported exemptions.
• The State Department confirmed it has denied and revoked visas for dozens of PA and PLO officials, including Mahmoud Abbas, ahead of the U.N. General Assembly.
• Consular officers were told to cite section 221(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act when refusing these applications, and the guidance applies even to diplomatic or official visa types when submitted with PA passports.
• The move expands an earlier pause on visitor visas for residents of Gaza and has drawn criticism over humanitarian and educational impacts, while U.S. officials defend it as a lawful national‑security step to hold Palestinian institutions accountable.