The current administration has emphasized that immigrants entering the United States must be financially self‑sufficient and should not become a financial burden on the American public. In response, the Department of State is conducting a comprehensive review of its policies, regulations, and internal guidance to ensure that immigrant applicants from certain high‑risk countries do not rely on welfare programs or become a public charge.

Temporary Pause on Immigrant Visa Issuances

Effective January 21, 2026, the Department of State will pause all immigrant visa issuances for applicants who are nationals of the following countries:

Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Burma, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Colombia, Cote d’Ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, The Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyz Republic, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Macedonia, 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens to my immigrant visa interview appointment?

Applicants from affected countries may still submit applications, attend interviews, and be scheduled for appointments. However, during this pause, the Department of State will not issue any immigrant visas to nationals of the listed countries.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes. Dual nationals applying with a valid passport from a country not listed above are exempt from this pause.

Does this affect my current valid visa?

No. The Department of State has not revoked any existing immigrant visas under this guidance. For questions about entering the United States, applicants should contact the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Does this apply to tourist visas?

No. The pause applies only to immigrant visa applicants. Tourist visas are classified as nonimmigrant visas and are not impacted by this change.

If you or someone you know may be affected, it’s important to stay informed and seek professional guidance as policies continue to evolve.