The United States has taken a significant step to tighten its immigration rules, announcing a suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens from 75 different countries.
Major Policy Shift Announced
On Wednesday 14 January 2026, the US State Department confirmed it had instructed consular officers to halt the processing of immigrant visa applications from the affected nations. This directive is in line with a broader order issued in November, which aimed to restrict the entry of individuals who might become dependent on public funds, known as "public charges".
The department stated the move was designed to end the "abuse of America’s immigration system by those who would extract wealth from the American people." It emphasised that the pause would allow for a reassessment of procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who would take welfare and public benefits.
Scope and Specifics of the Suspension
Importantly, this suspension applies only to immigrant visas, which are for those seeking permanent residence. Applicants for non-immigrant visas, such as those for temporary tourism, business, or work, will not be affected by this specific halt.
While the State Department's statement did not publish a list of the 75 countries facing the visa processing pause, it noted that the Trump administration had already placed severe restrictions on visa processing for dozens of nations, with many located in Africa. This new action significantly expands that existing framework.
Implications and Broader Context
This policy represents a continued hardening of the US approach to immigration under President Donald Trump. The "public charge" rule has been a cornerstone of this strategy, aiming to favour immigrants deemed financially self-sufficient.
The immediate consequence is a major disruption for thousands of prospective immigrants from the targeted countries whose applications are now in limbo. The long-term reassessment of procedures signals a potential permanent shift in how the US evaluates immigrant visa eligibility, with a heightened focus on an applicant's economic prospects and perceived reliance on state support.
