US freezes immigrant visas processing for 75 countries; Pak, Bangladesh hit
The Trump administration has suspended visa processing for visitors from 75 countries—including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria, Thailand, Iraq, Egypt, and Yemen—starting January 21.
A senior U.S. official confirmed that the U.S. State Department issued an internal memo instructing embassies and consulates to pause all visa issuance indefinitely while screening and vetting procedures are reassessed.
Key Points
The suspension is tied to concerns that applicants from these countries might become a “public charge”—a term used in U.S. immigration law for people likely to rely on government assistance.
Consular officers have been directed to deny visas using existing legal authorities during the pause.
No timeline has been provided for when visa processing may resume.
Factors to be weighed under the “public charge” review include:
health conditions
age
English proficiency
financial resources
potential long-term medical needs
Political Context
The move fits into President Donald Trump’s broader immigration crackdown that has intensified since taking office.
The announcement coincided awkwardly with Pakistan’s leadership participating in what was billed as an MoU ceremony led by the U.S. envoy's son—prompting criticism and allegations of diplomatic embarrassment in Pakistan.
State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott stated that the U.S. is exercising “long-standing authority” to protect public resources from misuse and prevent entry of individuals deemed likely to rely on welfare benefits.
- With inputs from agencies
