The United States Department of State has announced a temporary pause on issuing immigrant visas to nationals from dozens of countries as part of a broader review of screening and vetting procedures.
According to the notice, the measure took effect on January 21, 2026, following a directive by President Donald Trump stating that immigrants must be financially self-sufficient and not become a public burden in the United States.
The State Department said applicants from the listed countries may still submit visa applications and attend scheduled interviews, but the issuance of immigrant visas has been suspended while the review is underway.
The affected countries include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Thailand, Nigeria, Russia, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Egypt, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Haiti, Cuba, Brazil, and several others across Asia, Africa, Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America.
Officials added that dual nationals travelling on a valid passport from a country not included on the list may be exempt from the measure. Children being adopted by American families may also qualify for exemptions under national interest provisions.
The department further clarified that no existing immigrant visas have been revoked under the new guidance, while tourist visas and other nonimmigrant visas remain unaffected.
