Overview
- The suspension takes effect Jan. 21 and halts processing of permanent‑residence visas for nationals of 75 countries, while tourist, student and other non‑immigrant visas continue.
- Officials say the freeze will remain until the U.S. can ensure new immigrants will not rely on public benefits, and consulates were instructed to stop adjudications and review procedures.
- An unofficial list circulated by AP and other outlets spans multiple regions, naming countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Nigeria, Russia, Iran and Somalia.
- New guidance directs officers to weigh factors like age, health, English proficiency, finances and prior benefit use more heavily, raising denial risks for some applicants.
- Migration Policy Institute estimates about 46% of FY2024 immigrant visas went to citizens of the affected countries, and governments and NGOs, including Guatemala and Human Rights Watch, flagged significant impacts on family reunification and humanitarian cases.