14. January 2026
Admin
US freezes all visa processing for 75 countries, including Somalia, Russia, Iran
The U.S. State Department has announced an indefinite freeze on immigrant visa processing for citizens of **75 countries**, citing a decision to reassess screening and vetting procedures under existing immigration laws. The freeze, set to take effect on **January 21, 2026**, reflects intensified efforts to tighten immigration policies and ensure that applicants who might become a “public charge” are thoroughly evaluated before entry.
Quick Insight:
The pause affects immigrant visas — which are typically sought by individuals planning to live permanently in the United States — and will remain in place while authorities review consular processes. The measure is part of broader immigration enforcement and procedural changes.
What the Freeze Means
• Starting January 21, the U.S. will stop processing immigrant visa applications from nationals of the 75 designated countries until further notice.
• Consular officers overseas have been directed to refuse immigrant visas under current legal authorities while screening and vetting standards are reassessed.
• The freeze applies to visas that typically lead to permanent residency and does not immediately cover temporary travel visas like tourist or business entries.
Countries Affected
• The list includes a broad range of nations from multiple regions across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
• Several countries with significant numbers of applicants for U.S. residency programs, such as Russia, Iran, Somalia, Afghanistan, Brazil, and Nigeria, are part of the affected group.
• Nationals from these countries who plan to apply for immigrant visas will face delays as the U.S. government reviews procedures.
Why the Change Was Made
• Officials say the freeze will allow the State Department to evaluate how consular staff screen applicants under the “public charge” provisions of U.S. immigration law — rules that allow visa denial for individuals perceived likely to depend on public benefits.
• The review aims to strengthen the consistency and effectiveness of vetting processes at U.S. embassies and consulates.
• The step is part of a broader policy trend focused on immigration enforcement and tightening eligibility requirements for long-term residency.
Final Thoughts
The indefinite freeze on immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries marks one of the most sweeping shifts in U.S. immigration policy in recent years. As the State Department reassesses how it evaluates applicants for potential public assistance reliance, the measure will impact families and individuals planning permanent relocation to the United States — with uncertainty about when normal processing might resume.
