On January 14, 2026, the U.S. State Department announced 🗓️ a freeze on immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 countries. This visa pause kicks in on January 21 and will stay until officials can guarantee new arrivals will not draw on the American people's resources.
The list includes nations like Somalia, Haiti, Iran, Eritrea, Russia, Afghanistan, Brazil, Iraq, Egypt, Nigeria, Thailand and Yemen. The department said it targets countries whose migrants often become public charges upon arrival.
Earlier this week, the White House revealed it is ending Temporary Protected Status for Somali immigrants amid fraud allegations in Minnesota. And just days ago, the State Department reported it had revoked over 100,000 visas since President Donald Trump took office nearly a year ago.
Back in November 2025, Trump announced plans to permanently shut out immigrants from what he described as Third World countries after a tragic incident near the White House. Critics warn this visa pause could strain families and slow global talent flows. Supporters say it protects taxpayer funds.
For now, anyone hoping to move to the U.S. from these 75 countries will face a backlog until further review. Stay tuned for updates on how this policy develops—and what it means for migration, global careers and families around the world 🌍✈️
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
