The Trump administration has indefinitely suspended immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 countries, citing concerns that they may become a 'public charge' reliant on government benefits. The freeze, effective 21 January, targets nations including Brazil, Iran, Russia and Somalia.
The State Department stated the pause will remain until the US can ensure new immigrants will not 'extract wealth from the American people'. A department cable obtained by The Guardian lists all affected countries.
This move is part of a broader crackdown that has seen over 100,000 visas revoked and more than 605,000 deportations since Trump returned to office. The administration has also expanded travel bans and suspended asylum processing.
Research contradicts the administration's claims: a Cato Institute study found immigrants consumed 21% fewer welfare benefits per capita than native-born Americans in 2022. Migration experts warn the freeze may deter eligible families from accessing public support.
