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FAQ: U.S. Suspension of Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries

By NewsRamp Editorial Team

TL;DR

The U.S. State Department's immigrant visa suspension for 75 countries creates opportunities for applicants from unaffected nations to gain a competitive edge in immigration processing.

The U.S. State Department suspended immigrant visa processing for 75 countries effective January 21, 2026, due to concerns about potential public assistance use, while non-immigrant visas remain unaffected.

This policy risks separating families and limiting opportunities for lawful immigrants, potentially undermining the diversity and compassion that strengthens communities.

The U.S. State Department's immigrant visa suspension impacts 75 diverse countries, from Afghanistan to Colombia, highlighting complex global immigration dynamics and legal considerations.

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FAQ: U.S. Suspension of Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries

The U.S. State Department is suspending the processing of immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries, including nations in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East.

The suspension became effective on January 21, 2026.

The affected countries include Afghanistan, Iran, Russia, Somalia, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Colombia, Haiti, and Pakistan, among others totaling 75 nations.

According to the State Department, the suspension stems from concerns that immigrants from these countries may be likely to require public assistance or government benefits once in the United States.

No, the pause affects only immigrant visas. It does not apply to non-immigrant visas such as tourist (B-1/B-2), business (B), student (F/M), or temporary work visas.

The duration of the suspension is currently unknown.

Impacted applicants are advised to stay in contact with consular posts handling their cases for updates and monitor official guidance.

U.S. officials say this is part of broader efforts to tighten immigration controls, while critics argue it could have far-reaching consequences for families, workers, and lawful immigrants with strong ties to the United States.

Affected individuals and families can consult legal professionals like Ally Bolour of Bolour/Carl Immigration Group for personalized advice.

This represents a significant tightening of U.S. immigration controls that specifically targets immigrant visas from 75 countries, potentially affecting thousands of families and workers seeking permanent residency in the United States.

Curated from 24-7 Press Release

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NewsRamp Editorial Team

NewsRamp Editorial Team

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