US Section 243(d) Visa Sanctions (1952-present)
1952-presentWhat Happened
The United States Immigration and Nationality Act granted the government power to impose visa sanctions on 'recalcitrant' countries refusing to accept deported nationals. During the Cold War, this targeted Eastern Bloc nations. From 1991 to 2017, it was used only twice (Guyana and The Gambia). The Trump administration activated it nine times, targeting Cambodia, Eritrea, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Laos, Burma, and others.
Outcome
Countries typically adjusted cooperation within months of sanctions being imposed.
The tool became normalized as immigration enforcement leverage, setting precedent for linking visa access to deportation cooperation.
Why It's Relevant Today
The UK's 2022 Nationality and Borders Act explicitly modeled its visa penalty powers on the US approach. Britain is now following a proven playbook.
