What Travelers Should Know
In January 2026, the United States Department of State introduced a policy widely known as the US Immigrant Visa Suspension 75 Countries. This directive has caused confusion and concern among millions of applicants planning to move permanently to the U.S. While it pauses immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, it is important to note that visitor visas and other non-immigrant visas are not affected.
This policy marks one of the most significant updates to U.S. immigration in recent years. Families, students, and businesses are now reviewing their plans and exploring alternatives for travel and relocation. In this guide, we will explain the policy, who it affects, its implications, and clarify what travelers need to know to plan effectively.
What Is the US Immigrant Visa Suspension 75 Countries Policy?
The US Immigrant Visa Suspension 75 Countries policy temporarily pauses the issuance of immigrant visas, which include family-based visas, employment-based visas, diversity visas, and other green card pathways. Nationals of the affected countries cannot receive new immigrant visas until the suspension is lifted.
It is crucial to understand that this policy does not apply to short-term or non-immigrant visas, such as:
- B-1/B-2 visitor visas for tourism or short-term business
- Student visas (F-1, M-1) for education
- Temporary work visas (H-1B, L-1) for employment
- Exchange visitor visas (J-1)
This distinction means that individuals from affected countries can still travel, study, and work temporarily in the United States.
The official U.S. government announcement of this policy is available here: US Department of State – Immigrant Visa Processing Updates
Countries Affected by the Visa Suspension
The policy affects 75 countries across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas. Some of the most affected countries include:
- Pakistan
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Iran
- Russia
- Somalia
- Nigeria
- Thailand
- Egypt
- Iraq
- Yemen
The suspension affects all immigrant visa categories for nationals of these countries. Even applicants with approved petitions must wait until the policy is lifted before visas are issued.
Practical Tip: If you are from an affected country, consider exploring dual citizenship options or non-immigrant visas to avoid indefinite delays.
Why Was This Policy Introduced?
The U.S. government cited concerns about the public charge rule, which allows consular officers to deny visas to applicants likely to become dependent on public benefits. By pausing immigrant visa issuance, the U.S. can reassess its processes and ensure that future arrivals comply with immigration standards.
Additionally, the policy is intended to streamline immigration operations and provide consular officers the resources to focus on high-risk applications. While it has generated concern among applicants, it is designed to regulate long-term migration rather than temporary travel.
The policy also reinforces national security and economic considerations, aiming to ensure that immigrants entering the U.S. can support themselves without relying on public assistance.
How the Policy Affects Families and Businesses
The pause impacts not only individuals but also families and organizations:
- Families: Spouses and children waiting to join relatives in the U.S. may face indefinite delays, impacting family reunification plans.
- Businesses: Employers sponsoring foreign workers for permanent positions may need to rely on temporary visas or postpone hiring.
- Students: Graduates planning to transition from student visas to permanent work visas must adjust timelines, delaying career and immigration plans.
- Communities and Economies: Remittances and international mobility are affected, impacting financial planning, education, and investment decisions.
Tip: Plan ahead by considering temporary visa options or alternative pathways for relocation to minimize disruption.
US Immigrant Visa Suspension 75 Countries: Important Considerations
For individuals from affected countries, the US Immigrant Visa Suspension 75 Countries policy means:
- No immigrant visas will be issued while the suspension is active.
- Applicants can still submit applications and attend interviews, but final issuance is delayed indefinitely.
- Dual nationals with passports from countries not on the list may qualify under alternate nationality rules.
- There is no official timeline for when the suspension will end.
This policy underscores the importance of strategic planning for permanent relocation, including financial and legal preparedness. Families and employers must plan carefully to avoid unexpected delays and disruptions.
Non-Immigrant Visas and Travel Remain Unaffected
It is important to emphasize that the US Immigrant Visa Suspension 75 Countries policy does not affect non-immigrant visas. Nationals of affected countries can still:
- Apply for B-1/B-2 visitor visas for tourism or short-term business
- Pursue student visas (F-1, M-1)
- Apply for temporary work visas (H-1B, L-1)
- Obtain exchange visitor visas (J-1)
This distinction is critical. Many travelers mistakenly believe the suspension affects all U.S. visas, but only permanent immigrant visa pathways are paused.
Example: A student from Pakistan can still pursue higher education in the U.S. using an F-1 visa, even if the family-based immigrant visa for a spouse is temporarily paused.
Practical Tips for Applicants
- Stay informed through official sources rather than social media rumors.
- Consult immigration attorneys for guidance on family or employment-based applications.
- Keep documentation updated, including financial records and proof of ties to your home country.
- Consider non-immigrant visa options if your travel plans are temporary.
- Monitor policy updates from the U.S. Department of State for changes or clarifications.
- Plan travel carefully to avoid conflicts with visa restrictions and avoid unnecessary delays.
- Keep backup options such as alternative family or work-based sponsorships ready.
Following these steps helps minimize disruptions and ensures applicants can make the most of available travel options.
FAQs About US Immigrant Visa Suspension 75 Countries
Q1: Are visitor visas affected by this policy?
No. B-1/B-2, student, work, and exchange visas are not affected. Only permanent immigrant visas are paused.
Q2: How long will the suspension last?
There is currently no official timeline. The policy will remain until the State Department announces updates.
Q3: Can dual nationals apply for immigrant visas?
Yes, if they hold passports from countries not on the affected list, they may qualify under alternate nationality rules.
Q4: Can I travel to the U.S. while waiting for my immigrant visa?
Yes, you can apply for non-immigrant visas like B-1/B-2, F-1, or H-1B while your immigrant visa is on hold.
Q5: Where can I find the official announcement?
The official U.S. government announcement is here: US Department of State – Immigrant Visa Processing Updates
Conclusion
The US Immigrant Visa Suspension 75 Countries policy is a major update in U.S. immigration that pauses permanent visa issuance for nationals of 75 countries. While it affects family, employment, and diversity-based immigration, short-term travel, study, and work visas remain available.
By understanding the scope, exceptions, and implications of this policy, travelers, families, and businesses can plan effectively. Staying informed, prepared, and proactive is the key to navigating these changes successfully.
For official information and ongoing updates, see the US Department of State – Immigrant Visa Processing Updates.
For more visa and immigration-related updates and guidance, click here.