US Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries Starting January 21

The US State Department announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 countries starting January 21, 2026. This pause targets nationals deemed likely to rely on public welfare, including countries from Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, Russia, Iran, Somalia, and Brazil. The freeze affects immigrant visas for permanent residence but exempts tourist, business, and temporary work visas. The move is part of a broader immigration crackdown aimed at preventing public charge dependency, with no set end date for the suspension.