BREAKING NEWS: U.S. Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries
On January 14, 2026, the U.S. Department of State announced it will pause the issuance of immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026. At this time, the government has not provided a clear end date for this policy, leaving many families and employers in prolonged uncertainty.
This pause applies to immigrant visas issued through U.S. embassies and consulates abroad. While applications may continue to be prepared and reviewed, immigrant visas will not be issued for affected nationals while the pause remains in effect.
Why this matters
Many individuals impacted by this policy have followed every legal requirement, completed years of processing, and are now facing delays that are entirely outside their control. The lack of a defined timeline creates serious challenges for families awaiting reunification and employers relying on approved workers.
Which Visas Are Affected?
AFFECTED (Immigrant Visas Only):
- Family-based immigrant visas
- Employment-based immigrant visas
- Diversity lottery visas
NOT AFFECTED:
- Tourist visas (B-1/B-2)
- Student visas (F-1)
- Work visas (H-1B, L-1, etc.)
- All other non-immigrant categories
The 75 Countries
Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia, Brazil, Burma, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Colombia, Cote d'Ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Macedonia, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, and Yemen.
Key Details
Timeline: Effective January 21, 2026, with no specified end date
Important Exception: Dual nationals who hold a valid passport from a country NOT on the list of 75 affected countries are exempt from this suspension
Evaluation Factors: Consular officers will assess age, health, English proficiency, financial resources, employment history, education, and family status when determining public charge likelihood
This policy applies to immigrant visas processed through U.S. embassies and consulates abroad and does not apply to adjustment of status applications filed with USCIS inside the United States.
What This Means for You
If You Have a Pending Application
- Your application will not be automatically denied, but processing is paused
- Interviews may still be scheduled, but no visas will be issued during the suspension
- Existing immigrant visas have not been revoked
How Demine Immigration Law Firm Can Help
Our immigration attorneys can:- Evaluate your specific case and identify potential exceptions
- Prepare comprehensive documentation to demonstrate financial self-sufficiency
- Monitor policy developments and adjust strategies accordingly
- Explore alternative immigration pathways
If your case is pending or approved and you are from one of the affected countries, speaking with an immigration attorney now can help you avoid travel risks, employment interruptions, or unexpected case reviews.
📅 Schedule a consultation today to speak with our team and learn how we can support you and your family through your immigration journey.