Latest Terror Plot Shows Need to Revamp Student Visa Security

February 24, 2011

This news is further proof that the Department of Homeland Security must tighten its student visa security issuance and compliance monitoring processes, something Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-09) has been advocating for the past several years.

"Several recent incidents have demonstrated shortcomings in our ability to properly screen and monitor foreign students," said Bilirakis, a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security. "Foreign students play a role in our society, but we must remain vigilant to ensure that terrorists do not exploit our student visa process as a way into our country."

In 2010, Bilirakis introduced the Student Visa Security Improvement Act, which would improve the background checks conducted on student visa applicants from high risk areas and enhance America's ability to ensure, once in the country, foreign students are abiding by the terms of their visas.

Last year, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) disrupted student visa fraud schemes where individuals fraudulently obtained or maintained student visas even though the students were not attending class.

The Times Square bomber, Faisal Shahzad, reportedly first entered the United States on a student visa in 1998. Several 9/11 terrorists violated the terms of their student visas as well.

Rep. Bilirakis has frequently questioned DHS about its plans to strengthen visa security procedures.

In the News:
Government Security News: Accused Texas bomber stokes visa rule legislation
Homeland Security Today: Texas Terror Plot Prompts Renewed Call for Student Visa Scrutiny
Sunshine State News: Gus Bilirakis: Terrorist Plot Against George W. Bush Shows Need to Reform Student Visas