US Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries

The United States government has recently updated its immigration policies, a move that is already affecting people across the globe. The changes have led to a significant pause in visa processing, raising concerns for families, workers, and individuals hoping to begin a new chapter in the United States. On January 21, 2026, the Department of State announced a temporary halt on immigrant visa applications from 75 countries, targeting specific regions and visa categories rather than introducing a permanent change to immigration law.

Understanding this policy is essential for anyone planning to travel to or immigrate to the U.S. In this blog, we break down the reasons behind the suspension, outline the countries impacted, and explain what it means for existing applications. U.S. immigration can be complex and stressful, and even temporary policy shifts can significantly impact future plans. This blog aims to help you navigate the changes with clarity and confidence.

The Reasoning Behind The Decision

The administration says the decision is rooted in concerns about immigrants becoming a public charge, meaning individuals who may rely on government financial assistance after arriving in the United States. Officials argue that immigration should prioritise financial self-sufficiency and ensure that new residents can support themselves without placing added strain on American taxpayers. This approach reflects a broader push to strengthen oversight within the immigration system.

To support this goal, the Department of State has begun reviewing its vetting policies. Officials are examining applications from certain countries more closely, using economic data and past trends to assess risk. By temporarily pausing visa processing, the government hopes to tighten controls and prioritise applicants who can show they are financially stable.

Read more - What is the Difference Between Immigrant and Non-immigrant Visas?

What is Visa Pause?

The term immigrant visa pause refers to a temporary halt in the issuance of green cards to individuals living outside the United States. This pause applies only to immigrant visas, which are used by those intending to settle in the US permanently, including family-based and employment-based green card applicants from the 75 affected countries. The suspension covers cases that were already pending as of January 21, 2026, as well as new applications filed after that date. While applicants may still attend consular interviews and have their documents reviewed, consular officers are not permitted to issue the final visa. 

Who is Affected?

The suspension affects countries across multiple regions, with Africa and Asia bearing the greatest impact and nearly half of those affected coming from African nations. This has sparked criticism from human rights groups, who argue the policy unfairly targets people based on nationality. While the focus remains on immigrant visas, the restriction is not absolute. Dual nationals may still qualify if they hold a passport from a country not on the 75-country list, offering limited relief for some families. In addition, lawful permanent residents already living in the United States are not affected, as the directive does not revoke existing status.

Who is Not Included in the Restrictions?

The proclamation includes specific exemptions to ensure that certain individuals and groups are not affected by the visa suspension. These exceptions are outlined in Section 6(b) and apply to people whose travel is considered essential, protected, or in the national interest of the United States.

Who Is Not Included in the Suspension:

• Lawful permanent residents of the United States

• Dual nationals travelling on a passport from a non-designated country

• Holders of diplomatic visas travelling for official government work

• Athletes, coaches, support staff, and immediate family members travelling for major international events such as the World Cup or the Olympics

• Special Immigrant Visa holders who are current or former US government employees

• Applicants for immigrant visas who are ethnic or religious minorities facing persecution in Iran

• Individuals granted case-by-case exceptions by the Attorney General, the Secretary of State, or the Secretary of Homeland Security when travel serves a US national interest.

List of Countries Under the New Suspension

The 75 affected countries include many of the largest sources of immigrants to the United States. Spread across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, these regions represent a substantial share of US migration. The table below shows estimated annual immigrant flows, illustrating the scale of the current visa suspension.

What Is The Public Charge Rule?

The public charge rule is a long-standing part of US immigration law that focuses on an applicant’s ability to support themselves. When reviewing a case, immigration officials gradually assess key factors such as age, health, family situation, and financial resources. If these elements suggest a risk that the applicant may rely on government assistance in the future, the rule allows authorities to deny the visa.

What Indian Travellers Need to Know

Although India is not on the list of 75 countries, the policy still affects Indian travellers because the global immigration system is interconnected. Changes in one region often create ripple effects elsewhere, leading to unexpected consequences. As a result, an estimated 50,000 family-sponsored green cards may go unused in Fiscal Year 2026, reducing the overall flow of immigrants to the United States even for applicants who remain eligible.

Expect Slower Processing Times

Visa processing may take longer across categories as consulates in Mumbai and Delhi share resources with a global system under increased strain. With officers reassigned to handle stricter vetting and growing backlogs, interview schedules may be delayed, making early planning and advance preparation essential.

Higher Scrutiny of Financial Documents

Financial records are now subject to closer review, requiring applicants to clearly demonstrate self-sufficiency through updated bank statements, tax returns, and proof of assets. Providing complete and well-organised documentation helps ease concerns about becoming a public charge.

Increased Focus on Health and Travel Insurance

There is also greater emphasis on health preparedness, with consular officers expecting applicants to show they can manage medical expenses without public support, especially given the high cost of healthcare in the United States. Choosing Niva Bupa travel insurance policy can help address this concern by providing coverage for medical emergencies and accidents abroad, demonstrating preparedness while protecting your finances and adding strength to your visa application.

Non-Immigrant Visas Remain Active

While the immigrant visa suspension has caused widespread concern, it does not apply to most short-term travel categories. For many applicants, non-immigrant visa processing continues as usual, making it important to understand which visa types are still unaffected.

• Tourist visas continue to be processed under the current rules

• Student visas remain active, allowing applicants to pursue education in the US

• Temporary work visas, such as H-1B and L-1, are still being issued

• These non-immigrant visas are available even to applicants from the 75 affected countries

• The suspension mainly targets those seeking permanent residence in the US

• A separate order applies to 19 specific countries, where some temporary visas are also restricted

• Applicants should confirm which list their country falls under before booking travel or paying tuition fees

Wrapping Up

Recent changes in U.S. immigration policy have created uncertainty for many people around the world. The U.S. visa ban affecting 75 countries has disrupted travel, study, and family plans for thousands. Although the government says these measures are meant to protect financial interests, they have left many individuals facing unclear timelines and difficult decisions, with legal challenges still unfolding.

For those planning to travel to the United States, careful preparation is essential. Make sure all documents are in order, finances are clearly outlined, and travel plans remain flexible. Medical coverage is especially important due to the high cost of healthcare in the U.S. Choosing Niva Bupa travel insurance can offer reliable protection and peace of mind in case of unexpected medical needs, helping travellers stay prepared during uncertain times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens to my visa fees if my application is paused?

US visa fees are non-refundable but remain valid for a limited period. If your case is paused, the fee is not lost, but you must wait for processing to resume to use it.

Will my child lose eligibility if they turn 21 during the pause?

This is a real concern. While some protections exist under US law, they do not apply in every case. Long delays could affect eligibility, so it is best to consult an immigration lawyer.

Can I move my visa interview to a country not on the list?

Generally no. Applicants must usually apply in their country of residence, and moving for an interview to avoid the suspension is not permitted.

What happens if my medical exam expires while I wait?

Medical exams and police certificates have limited validity. If they expire during the pause, you will need to complete them again once processing resumes.

Are Diversity Visa winners affected?

Yes. Diversity Visa applicants from the 75 countries are included. Because these visas have strict deadlines, some winners may lose eligibility if the pause continues.

Does this policy affect fiancé visas?

K-1 fiancé visas are technically non-immigrant but often treated like immigrant visas. Applicants from affected countries should confirm their current processing status with their consulate.