Photo courtesy of Sasirin Pamai’s Images
The U.S. Department of State has announced a suspension of immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, marking a significant development in current immigration policy.
The pause took effect on January 21, 2026, and will remain in place while the government reassesses its immigration screening procedures.
What Was Announced
The suspension applies specifically to immigrant visas—those intended for individuals seeking to live permanently in the United States.
According to the State Department, the pause is part of a broader review of immigration processes, with a focus on strengthening screening measures and enforcing public charge considerations.
At this time, no end date has been provided.
What Is Not Affected
It is important to note that this suspension does not apply to non-immigrant visas. Processing will continue for individuals applying for:
- Tourist visas
- Student visas
- Temporary work visas
- Other short-term travel, including event-based travel such as international sporting events
Applicants seeking temporary entry to the United States are not impacted by this change.
Why the Policy Was Implemented
The State Department stated that the temporary suspension is intended to allow for a reassessment of procedures aimed at:
- Preventing misuse of public benefits
- Strengthening enforcement of public charge rules
- Enhancing overall immigration screening protocols
Officials indicated that immigrant visa processing will resume once updated safeguards are in place.
Countries Affected
The suspension impacts nationals from 75 countries across multiple regions, including:
Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, the Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, North Macedonia, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Republic of the Congo, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, and Yemen.
What This Means for Applicants
Individuals from affected countries who are applying for immigrant visas may experience:
- Paused visa processing
- Delays in case progression
- Uncertainty in timelines for approval and issuance
Because this is a developing policy, applicants should monitor official updates and remain in contact with their immigration counsel to understand how their specific case may be impacted.
Key Takeaway
This suspension represents a major shift in immigrant visa processing for a wide group of countries. While nonimmigrant visa processing remains unaffected, individuals seeking permanent residence through consular processing may face delays and uncertainty until further guidance is issued.
Given the scope and evolving nature of this policy, it is important to understand how these changes may impact your specific case or long-term immigration plans. To discuss your situation, you may schedule a consultation with the Law Office of Jacqueline Lentini, LLC by calling 630-262-1435 or emailing jacki@lentinivisas.com.