USCIS Bars Transgender Women Athletes From Visas

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented new guidance, effective immediately, that restricts visa eligibility for transgender women—those born male but identifying as female—seeking to compete in women’s sports in the United States. This policy, aligned with President Donald Trump’s executive order 'Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports,' specifically applies to elite athlete visa categories such as O-1A, EB-1, EB-2, and National Interest Waivers. USCIS will now view participation as a transgender woman in women's sports as a negative factor in visa applications, citing lack of continued extraordinary ability and national interest. The agency maintains the policy is designed to protect fairness, safety, and integrity in women’s athletics. The move has sparked significant legal and social debate, with civil rights and LGBTQ advocates expressing concerns about discrimination and international competitive fairness. The change comes as the U.S. prepares for major events like the 2028 Olympics.