Indefinite Suspension of Immigration Visas
The US Department of State has indefinitely suspended immigration visa processing from 75 countries through instructions sent to consulates. With this decision, the path to immigration to the United States has effectively been closed for more than one-third of nearly 200 countries worldwide.
Consular officers were instructed not to issue immigration visas until screening and security review procedures are reassessed.
Who Is Covered, Who Is Not?
According to sources speaking to Bloomberg, the measure applies to individuals who wish to live and work permanently in the United States.
- Tourist visas
- Temporary work visas
- Short-term visits are excluded from this decision.
Family-Based Immigration Will Be Most Affected
While the measure is expected to come into force on 21 January, it is stated that the greatest impact will be on family-based immigration, which includes the spouses, children, and close relatives of US citizens.
The US administration had introduced stricter security and review criteria throughout the past year for foreigners and those wishing to reside in the United States. The new decision is seen as a continuation of this process.
Notable Timing Ahead of the World Cup
The timing of the decision, taken approximately five months before the World Cup to be hosted by the United States, has drawn attention. While hundreds of thousands of foreign visitors are expected to enter the country during the tournament, limiting the measure solely to permanent immigration visas aims to reduce potential complications.
Security Grounds Come to the Fore
This step is reported to be a continuation of the visa restriction threats voiced by Donald Trump following an incident in late 2025 in which an Afghan citizen shot two National Guard soldiers in Washington. Citing security risks, the administration continues to harden its immigration policies.
