America tightens visa entry conditions

After a series of terrorist attacks in Paris, the United States declared its intention to tighten the rules for visa-free entry into the country for citizens of EU countries and a number of other states.

Every year, about 20 million people from 38 countries enter the USA without a visa.

However, the visa-free entry program underwent a thorough audit in the United States. after the tragic events in Paris, where among the participants of the attacks were citizens of EU countries.

US lawmakers fear that extremists living in Europe may easily get into the United States.

Under changes introduced by Congress, all countries participating in this scheme will be required to issue “electronic passports” (e-passports) for travelers to the United States.

Their registration will be more closely controlled by the relevant US departments. Those entering the US will be checked for visits to countries where extremist militant bases are located.

Additional credentials

The US Department of Homeland Security also intends to ask Congress for additional powers, including the ability to penalize airlines that will not check passport details of passengers.

As White House spokesman Josh Ernest told reporters in Paris, these steps will help prevent attempts to cross the border on foreign passports.

Ernest is in the French capital together with US President Barack Obama participating in the international climate conference.

Currently, a visa-free entry program allows citizens of 38 countries to enter the United States without a visa for up to 90 days.

Among these countries are France and Belgium, whose citizens are suspected participated in extremist attacks in paris.

Earlier, Forum wrote that on November 13, in Paris were committed several terrorist attacks. The media reported suicide bombings near the Stade de France, as well as shootings in public places.

The police cordoned off the area and conducted a special operation to neutralize the terrorists. French President Francois Hollande reported on an emergency meeting of the government, at which decisions were made to impose a state of emergency and close borders.

As a result of the attack, 129 people died, 352 were injured.