SEVER Act of 2025
- Sponsor
- Sen. Cruz, Ted [R-TX]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 18, 2025
Bottom line
The SEVER Act of 2025 expands the categories of individuals denied U.S. admission to include those sanctioned under Executive Order 13876 (related to Iran), specifically impacting their ability to enter even for United Nations-related purposes.
What it actually does
This bill, known as the SEVER Act of 2025, amends existing immigration law to mandate the denial of admission to the United States for any individual who is subject to sanctions under Executive Order 13876, which pertains to imposing sanctions with respect to Iran. This denial of admission would apply even if the individual is seeking entry as a representative to the United Nations.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this legislation strengthens U.S. national security and reinforces the effectiveness of sanctions against Iran by preventing individuals involved in malign activities, particularly those sanctioned under EO 13876, from entering the country. They contend it closes a potential loophole that could allow adversaries to exploit diplomatic privileges.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that this bill could complicate international diplomacy and potentially violate the United States' obligations as the host nation of the United Nations, which typically requires facilitating entry for delegates. They may also raise concerns about potential reciprocal actions against U.S. officials or the perception of hindering multilateral engagement.
The bill is exceptionally short and clearly written, allowing for a quick and thorough understanding of its provisions.
Section 2
Denial of Visas to Certain Representatives to United Nations
This section amends Section 407(a)(1) of the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991. It expands the existing criteria for denying admission to the United States to include any individual who is subject to sanctions under Executive Order 13876, which pertains to imposing sanctions with respect to Iran. This means individuals sanctioned under that executive order would be denied visas, even if they are seeking entry as representatives to the United Nations.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision directly reinforces U.S. sanctions policy against Iran by ensuring that individuals deemed a threat or involved in malign activities cannot enter the U.S., even under the guise of diplomatic immunity for UN functions. This closes a perceived loophole and strengthens national security by preventing hostile actors from operating within U.S. borders.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that this provision could be seen as a violation of the United States' obligations as the host nation of the United Nations, potentially hindering the ability of member states to send their chosen representatives. They argue it could lead to diplomatic disputes, reciprocal actions against U.S. officials, and undermine the principle of universal representation at the UN.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the U.S. objective of strengthening national security and enforcing sanctions against Iran with potential diplomatic friction and the United States' role as the host country for the United Nations, which typically requires facilitating entry for delegates from all member states.