New Executive Order on Information Sharing and the Visa Waiver Program

On 06.Feb.2026, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14385, “Protecting the National Security and Welfare of the United States and its Citizens from Criminal Actors and Other Public Safety Threats.” This order establishes new policies for information sharing between U.S. agencies and foreign governments, with potential implications for travelers under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

Increased Access to Foreign Country Records and VWP Impact

The executive order authorizes the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to exchange criminal history record information (CHRI) with border security and immigration authorities of VWP countries, nations with Preventing and Combating Serious Crime agreements, and other trusted U.S. allies, if there is a reciprocal agreement between the two countries. The stated purpose is to strengthen border security by enabling DHS to better identify foreign nationals with criminal histories who may pose threats to U.S. national security or public safety.

Conclusion

The Murthy Law Firm is closely monitoring immigration developments. We will continue to provide updates to keep our clients and the public informed of new developments and their potential impacts.

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