Overview
- The State Department confirmed immigration from 75 countries will be paused while it reassesses processing procedures.
- An internal memo reported by Fox News says consular posts will halt visa processing on January 21 with the pause continuing indefinitely pending the review.
- Consular officers were instructed to refuse visas under existing law through tougher public charge assessments with very limited exceptions.
- Guidance directs officers to weigh factors including health, age, English proficiency, financial resources, and potential need for long-term medical care.
- Countries listed include Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria, and Thailand, with Somalia drawing added scrutiny following a Minnesota benefits fraud investigation.