US Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries

The United States has announced a suspension of immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 countries, marking a significant shift in immigration policy under President Donald Trump’s administration. The move forms part of a broader effort to reassess long-term migration into the country.

According to US officials, the decision expands the government’s use of existing legal authority that allows visa refusals for applicants deemed likely to rely on public assistance. This authority will now be applied on a nationality-wide basis as immigration procedures undergo further review.

Administration officials said the pause is intended to prevent misuse of public welfare systems and strengthen screening processes. Immigrant visa applications from the affected countries will remain on hold while authorities evaluate safeguards designed to limit dependence on government-funded benefits.

While an official and complete list has not yet been released, officials indicated that countries across multiple regions may be affected, including nations with strained diplomatic relations as well as some with historically cooperative ties to the United States.

The suspension applies exclusively to immigrant visas and does not impact tourist, business, student, or other non-immigrant visa categories. Visas linked to international travel for major global events are also not included in the pause. Authorities emphasized that all visa applicants will continue to face enhanced screening, including background and social media reviews.

The announcement comes amid a wider immigration enforcement campaign, with government agencies reporting a sharp rise in visa revocations and removals since President Trump returned to office. Officials said these measures reflect an ongoing effort to tighten border controls and reduce permanent migration.

The policy highlights the administration’s continued focus on stricter immigration oversight, signaling further changes as federal agencies reassess existing systems and enforcement priorities.