SECRETARY RUBIO: “No One Is Entitled to a Visa” – A Firm Warning on National Security

In a pointed statement, Secretary of State Marco Rubio doubled down on his stance regarding U.S. visas, reiterating that there is no constitutional right to enter the country as a visitor. Addressing concerns about visa policy, Rubio made it clear that any individual entering the U.S. for purposes like tourism, education, or journalism must adhere to the law and refrain from engaging in activities that threaten national security.

“I’ve said this repeatedly,” Rubio began, “I don’t know why it’s so hard for some to comprehend it, so let me repeat it again. A visa—no one’s entitled to a visa. There is no constitutional right to a visa, okay?” The Secretary emphasized that a visa is simply a privilege granted to those wishing to temporarily enter the U.S., and that anyone using it for activities against the U.S. national interest or security will have it revoked.

He added, “If you enter our country as a visitor, and as a visitor in our country—be it a student, a tourist, a journalist, whatever you want to be—and you undertake activities that are against the national interest, the national security of the United States, we will take away your visa.” Rubio was firm in stating that if the government had known an individual would violate U.S. interests, the visa likely wouldn’t have been granted in the first place.

The message underscored a tough stance on immigration and foreign influence, highlighting that maintaining U.S. security and sovereignty is paramount. This comment aligns with the broader administration’s focus on tighter immigration controls and the enforcement of national security policies. Rubio’s declaration is likely to fuel ongoing debates around visa regulations, the protection of U.S. interests, and the balance between openness and security.