| Key Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event/Highlights | United States announces an indefinite suspension on immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries. |
| Effective Date | January 21, 2026 |
| Scope of Suspension | Applies only to permanent immigration (green card applicants); does not affect tourist, business, student, or temporary work visas. |
| Legal Basis | Uses long-standing legal authority allowing visa denial if applicants are likely to depend on government welfare. |
| Key Figures | Trump administration enacted the policy; Tommy Pigott (State Department spokesperson) clarified its "America First" approach to prevent abuse of the immigration system. |
| Countries Affected | 75 countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe. Includes Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Iran, Russia, Nigeria, Brazil, Thailand, Somalia, Nepal, and others. |
| Exceptions | Does not affect tourist, business, student, or temporary work visas. Dual nationals holding passports from non-listed countries or those traveling for US national interest may be exempt. |
| Full List of Countries | Includes Algeria, Cameroon, Nigeria, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Russia, Brazil, Somalia, Nepal, and others from Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. |
| Reason for Suspension | Aimed at preventing potential abuse of the immigration system and protecting public resources under "America First" approach. |
| Question for Exam | Q: The US visa freeze announced in January 2026 applies to which category? A: C. Immigrant (permanent) visas |
Workflow
Login
Contact Counsellor