U.S. Pauses Immigrant Visas for 75 ‘High‑Risk’ Nationalities

State Department pauses immigrant visas for 75 nationalities as part of a review into whether applicants are likely to rely on U.S. public benefits, a move that took effect on January 21, 2026. The change, announced under the Trump administration, targets immigrant (permanent) visas only and arrives alongside broader screening and vetting updates.

What Changed

Beginning January 21, consular posts worldwide stopped issuing immigrant visas to nationals of 75 listed countries while the Department of State reassesses how it evaluates the long‑standing “public charge” ineligibility ground. Applicants from affected countries may continue to submit forms and attend scheduled interviews, but visa printing is on hold until further notice. Nations on the list span multiple regions and include Afghanistan, Brazil, Egypt, Iran, Nigeria, Russia, Somalia, and others.

Nonimmigrant visas are not affected. Tourist, student, and temporary work visas continue to be processed under existing procedures, though applicants may face heightened financial scrutiny.

Who Is Affected

The pause most directly hits family- and employer‑sponsored immigrants processing at consulates abroad. Employers planning permanent transfers and families awaiting consular green card appointments should expect delays. The State Department says no immigrant visas have been revoked due to the guidance, meaning previously issued visas remain valid for travel and admission subject to routine inspection.

Previously issued immigrant visas remain valid. People who already hold an unexpired immigrant visa can still travel, subject to Department of Homeland Security inspection at entry.

Exceptions And Unchanged

Several carve‑outs apply. Dual nationals using non‑listed passports are exempt. In addition, the department notes that children being adopted by U.S. citizens may qualify for case‑by‑case exceptions, including consideration under a National Interest Exception framework. The department also emphasizes that interviews will continue to be scheduled so cases remain positionally ready once issuance resumes.

What’s Next

Officials have not provided a timeline for completing the review or restoring routine immigrant visa issuance for the 75 nationalities. The department frames the step as an interim measure to ensure immigrants are financially self‑sufficient and do not become a public charge. Applicants and sponsors should monitor the State Department’s visa news page and specific consular posts for updates and any additional guidance on documentation of financial support.

Sources

• Immigrant Visa Processing Updates for Nationalities at High Risk of U.S. Public Benefits Reliance — U.S. Department of State (February 2, 2026)
• Trump administration indefinitely pauses immigrant visa processing for 75 nations — The Washington Post (January 14, 2026)