A sharper edge to discretion The ‘anti-American’ filter Student visas as a test case Immigration authorities in the US are widening the net of discretionary review. New guidance tells officers to treat “ anti-American activity ” and antisemitic ideologies as overwhelmingly negative when deciding on visas, work permits, and green cards. At the same time, a new memorandum on “good moral character” (GMC) has raised the bar for naturalization, requiring applicants to demonstrate active civic commitment rather than simply avoiding crime.Together, these moves show how free speech , while constitutionally protected for citizens, can become a liability for immigrants. International...