On August 27, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced the sudden cancellation of the long-standing visa validity system, which had been in place for over 40 years. This abrupt policy shift caused a strong reaction among the overseas Chinese community. For many, this system was seen as the foundation of immigration status stability. Its sudden removal has left those relying on it for maintaining legal status feeling anxious.
What adds to the tension is that China has also recently tightened its household registration and immigration controls. Together with the U.S. policy changes, the pressure on Chinese nationals abroad has increased. Since the second term of the Trump administration, the U.S. has been tightening up visa screening, immigration enforcement, and family reunification, while updating several older regulations. The stark contrast between long-term stability and sudden changes has intensified the uncertainty within immigrant communities.