The Trump administration has temporarily stopped processing visas for citizens from 75 nations as it conducts a thorough review of immigration procedures. This announcement was made on Wednesday by a State Department spokesperson, according to a Reuters report.
No further details about the scope or the timeline of this suspension were provided by the official, who indicated that this action is part of the current government's strategy to tighten immigration policies.
Reuters highlighted that President Donald Trump vowed in November to implement a “permanent pause” on immigration from “Third World countries” following a shooting near the White House involving an Afghan national.
Fox News, having obtained an internal memorandum from the State Department, revealed that the suspension is slated to begin on January 21 and will remain in effect indefinitely as eligibility criteria are reassessed.
The document instructs U.S. embassies and consulates to deny visas under existing laws until the review is completed.
According to the American news outlet, the countries impacted by this decision include Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria, and Thailand, among others.
The halt primarily affects applicants for immigrant visas, specifically under the "public charge" provision.
Fox News also reports that this move aims to prevent the entry of individuals deemed likely to rely on U.S. social benefits.
Factors being evaluated include age, health, financial stability, English proficiency, and any previous use of public assistance programs.
State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott mentioned to the media that the government intends to "use its authority to block the admission of foreigners who might become a burden on U.S. taxpayers or exploit the generosity of the American people."
Reuters noted that there is no set timeline for this decision, and U.S. embassies are required to implement the directive immediately while the internal review of consular procedures continues.
In December, U.S. immigration policy was further tightened when the White House confirmed the expansion of the so-called travel ban. This measure then covered an additional twenty countries and maintained partial entry restrictions on Cuba, reinforcing the radical shift championed by President Donald Trump since his return to office.
Understanding the U.S. Visa Suspension
What is the reason behind the U.S. halting visas for 75 countries?
The suspension is part of a review of immigration procedures aimed at tightening immigration policies and preventing individuals deemed likely to rely on U.S. social benefits from entering the country.
Which countries are affected by the visa suspension?
Countries affected include Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria, and Thailand, among others.
What factors are considered in the U.S. visa eligibility review?
The review considers factors such as age, health, financial stability, English proficiency, and previous use of public assistance programs.