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1h ago

U.S. Halts Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries Indefinitely Starting Jan. 21

The move uses expanded public‑charge screening to block applicants considered likely to rely on U.S. benefits.

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Overview

  • The State Department confirmed an immediate freeze on processing immigrant visas for 75 countries, including Brazil, Russia, Iran, Nigeria, Thailand and Somalia, effective Jan. 21 with no set end date.
  • The suspension applies to immigrant visas only, while tourist, business and student visas continue under normal processing according to confirmations reported by outlets and Brazil’s U.S. embassy.
  • Guidance instructs consular officers to weigh health, age, English proficiency, finances and potential long‑term care needs, with reporting indicating older or overweight applicants could face denials.
  • The list and criteria surfaced via a Department memo reported by Fox News, later echoed by White House and State Department statements, though full operational details and any exceptions have not been publicly released.
  • In a separate action, DHS terminated Temporary Protected Status for Somalia and set a March 17 deadline for beneficiaries to depart, warning on X that those who stay will be deported.