U.S. bans visas for Indian travel agency leaders over alleged role in illegal immigration.

The US State Department has imposed a visa ban on owners, executives, and senior officials of India-based travel agencies accused of knowingly facilitating illegal immigration to the United States.

In a statement issued on Monday, department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed the move but did not provide specific details such as the names of the individuals or the travel agencies affected by the restrictions.

The announcement also did not elaborate on the methods used to facilitate illegal immigration to the US.

According to the State Department, its Consular Affairs and Diplomatic Security Service teams in India have identified individuals involved in illegal immigration, human smuggling, and trafficking operations.

The department pledged to continue imposing visa restrictions on travel agency representatives in an effort to dismantle alien smuggling networks.

It also clarified that the visa restrictions will apply even to those who might otherwise be eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, which allows certain travelers to enter the US without a visa for up to 90 days.

“Enforcing US immigration laws and policies is critical to upholding the rule of law and protecting Americans,” Bruce stated.

Since President Donald Trump’s return to office this year, his administration has significantly intensified efforts to curb migration, including the deportation of thousands of migrants—some cases even contradicting court rulings.

Meanwhile, US embassies worldwide have been using their social media platforms to caution visa holders against overstaying their authorized duration, warning that doing so could result in deportation and a permanent entry ban.