US Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for Pakistan and 74 Other Countries Indefinitely

The US State Department announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for 75 countries, including Pakistan and Bangladesh, effective January 21. The freeze targets applicants deemed likely to rely on public assistance, while non-immigrant visas remain unaffected. Pakistan's inclusion has drawn criticism domestically, especially amid recent efforts by its leadership to strengthen ties with the US. Analysts note the move reflects ongoing US concerns about immigration risks and documentation integrity, with India notably excluded from the freeze.