The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may deny a green card if an applicant criticizes Israel, participates in pro-Palestinian protests or desecrates the American flag.
This was reported by The New York Times, citing internal documents of the US Department of Homeland Security at its disposal.
According to the newspaper, the US administration has included criticism of Israel in a list of “potentially disqualifying factors“ when considering green card applications. Examples cited in the USCIS guidelines include social media posts calling for "an end to Israeli terrorism" in Palestine and images of a crossed-out Israeli flag. In addition, the department has instructed to "pay special attention to foreigners" who have participated in pro-Palestinian protests on US university campuses, The New York Times notes.
Green cards are also not recommended for individuals who have "endorsed, encouraged or supported anti-American views" in the past. Desecrating the American flag is also among the actions that will prevent obtaining a green card, the publication notes.
A green card (literally "green card", officially a United States Permanent Resident Card) is an identity document that confirms permanent residence and allows work in the country for non-US citizens.