The United States government has announced a suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries as part of a broader review of its immigration screening and vetting procedures.
The move, which takes effect in January 2026, applies to immigrant visas and is expected to remain in place while authorities reassess eligibility standards and enforcement of existing immigration laws.
The affected countries span multiple regions, including Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America. Nationals from countries such as Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Nigeria, and others will be unable to proceed with immigrant visa applications during the suspension period.
US officials have said consular officers have been directed to halt processing under current legal provisions until further notice.
According to officials, the decision is linked to stricter application of rules designed to prevent individuals who are likely to depend on public assistance from entering the United States.
Factors such as financial capacity, health status, age, and overall self-sufficiency are expected to play a stronger role in future assessments once processing resumes.
The policy has raised concerns among immigration advocates and affected communities, particularly those with strong family and economic ties to the United States.
Critics argue that the suspension could disrupt family reunification, limit legal migration pathways, and strain diplomatic relations with countries on the list, while supporters say it is necessary to protect public resources and strengthen immigration controls.
