U.S. to Suspend Immigrant Visa Processing for Citizens of 75 Countries, State Department Confirms

The indefinite pause targets immigrant visas only, as Washington cites enforcement of public-charge laws and expanded screening measures.

By: Haitian Prime News|January 14, 2026|Washington, D.C.

The United States will suspend the processing of immigrant visas for citizens of 75 countries beginning next week, according to the U.S. State Department, marking one of the most sweeping immigration restrictions announced in recent years. The pause, described by officials as indefinite, applies exclusively to immigrant visas—those leading to permanent residency—and does not affect non-immigrant visas such as tourist, student, or business travel .

U.S. officials say the decision is rooted in the enforcement of existing immigration statutes that allow the government to deny entry to individuals deemed likely to become dependent on public assistance. The administration has framed the suspension as part of a broader reassessment of screening and eligibility standards for lawful permanent residence .

While the State Department has not published a single comprehensive list in an official release, reporting indicates that the affected 75 countries span Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and parts of Europe and the Americas. Nations cited by multiple outlets as included in the suspension range from Somalia and Iran to Nigeria, Egypt, Iraq, Russia, and Thailand .

Consular offices worldwide have reportedly been instructed to halt immigrant visa processing for applicants from the affected countries once the policy takes effect. Applications already submitted may face prolonged delays, and new filings will not be accepted during the suspension period, according to officials familiar with the guidance .

The move has drawn mixed reactions domestically and abroad. Immigration advocates warn the policy could separate families and disrupt lawful migration pathways, while supporters argue it reinforces statutory requirements and prioritizes economic self-sufficiency among new permanent residents. Analysts also note the potential for diplomatic friction with countries whose citizens are impacted by the freeze .

The State Department has indicated that the suspension will remain in place until its internal review is completed, though no timeline has been provided for when immigrant visa processing may resume for the affected nations.

Sources

Reuters — U.S. to suspend visa processing for 75 nations, State Department says