Washington | January 14,2026 | SKY LINK TIMES
US Freezes Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries:
The Trump administration has ordered an indefinite pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, citing concerns that applicants could become a “public charge” and rely on American welfare and public benefits, according to a directive issued by the US State Department.
The decision, which will take effect on January 21, instructs US consular officers worldwide to halt the processing of immigrant visas while the department undertakes a comprehensive review of its screening and vetting procedures under existing immigration law.
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Visa Processing Halted During Policy Review
According to a State Department memo, first reported by Fox News Digital, consular officers have been directed to refuse immigrant visas under the Immigration and Nationality Act’s “public charge” provision during the reassessment period. The pause has been described as indefinite and will remain in place until the review is completed.He added that the department would exercise its long-standing authority to deny entry to individuals deemed likely to depend on public assistance. “The State Department will use its authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people,” Pigott said.
“The Trump administration is bringing an end to the abuse of America’s immigration system by those who would extract wealth from the American people,” said Tommy Pigott, Principal Deputy Spokesperson of the US State Department.
He added that the department would exercise its long-standing authority to deny entry to individuals deemed likely to depend on public assistance. “The State Department will use its authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people,” Pigott said.
Countries Affected Across Multiple Regions
While the full list of affected countries has not yet been officially released, the move impacts a wide range of nations across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Europe, and Latin America.
According to media reports, countries impacted include Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Egypt, Thailand, and Brazil, among others.
The White House reinforced the decision through an official statement shared on social media. “US freezes all visa processing for 75 countries, including Somalia, Russia, Iran,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a post on X.
Limited Exceptions, Strict Scrutiny
The administration clarified that exceptions to the pause would be extremely limited and considered only after applicants have cleared public charge concerns. Officials said the review aims to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who may rely heavily on welfare programs and public benefits.
The policy represents a significant tightening of US immigration enforcement and is expected to affect thousands of visa applicants worldwide.
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Immigrant vs Non-Immigrant Visas
The freeze applies only to immigrant visas, which lead to permanent residence in the United States. These include:
• Family-based green cards
• Employment-based immigrant visas
• Humanitarian protections
Non-immigrant visas, such as tourist and business visas, student visas, short-term work permits, investor visas, and diplomatic or media assignments, are not covered under the current suspension.
Policy Impact and Global Reaction
The decision is likely to have wide-ranging implications for families, employers, and humanitarian applicants. Immigration advocates have raised concerns over prolonged uncertainty, while supporters argue the move strengthens safeguards within the US immigration system.
Further clarification is expected once the State Department completes its reassessment.
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