U.S. Pauses Immigrant Visa Processing for Multiple Countries
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On January 21, 2026
The U.S. Department of State announced a temporary pause on immigrant visa issuance for nationals of approximately 75 countries starting January 21, 2026. This affects individuals applying for visas that lead to permanent residency (green cards) while the department reviews its immigration screening and vetting procedures.
Key Points About the Pause
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Affected visas: Only immigrant visas are paused. Nonimmigrant visas, such as tourist (B-1/B-2), student (F-1), and temporary work visas, continue to be processed normally.
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Applications still accepted: Applicants can still submit forms and attend interviews, but the final visa issuance will be delayed until the review is complete.
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Reason for the pause: The review is focused on the “public charge” rule, which evaluates whether applicants are likely to rely on government support. Countries identified as higher-risk under this standard are included.
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Countries affected: 75 countries across multiple continents, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Brazil, Iran, Nigeria, Russia, Somalia, and Thailand. Dual nationals using passports not on the list may be exempt.
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Existing visas: Previously issued immigrant visas are not revoked due to this pause.
What Applicants Should Do
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Stay in contact with your U.S. embassy or consulate for updates on your case.
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Submit applications and attend interviews as scheduled — processing will resume once the review is complete.
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Consult an immigration professional if you have urgent travel or immigration needs.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration policies and procedures may change. Individuals should consult a qualified immigration professional or attorney regarding their specific situation.
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