India, April 18 -- The US has broadened its visa restriction policy to refuse entry to people it claims are acting on behalf of adversarial powers throughout the Western Hemisphere, and this ineligibility now also applies to their immediate family members as well.

The US Department of State revealed this measure in a media note released on April 16, 2026, presenting it as a crucial action to safeguard national security interests and maintain regional stability.

The expanded framework permits the US government to limit visas for foreign nationals in the region identified as operating on behalf of adversarial nations or their representatives. This policy is applicable to those who "knowingly direct, authorize, fund, or provide significant...