US Implements Widespread Immigrant Visa Freeze Affecting 75 Countries
The United States State Department has taken a significant step by freezing the immigrant visa process for seventy-five countries. This action includes Pakistan, where the US embassy in Islamabad confirmed the suspension will begin on January 21.
Expansive Restriction on Legal Entry Pathways
Earlier, the State Department announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing from these nations. Officials described this as one of their most expansive efforts to restrict legal entry into the United States. The freeze specifically targets individuals based on their nationality.
It encompasses countries across multiple regions, including Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe. Notable affected nations include Pakistan, Bangladesh, Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria, and Thailand.
Duration and Conditions of the Visa Freeze
How long will this freeze remain effective? The US embassy provided clarification. They stated the ban on Pakistan's immigrant visas will lift only after new immigrants undergo maximum vetting. This process ensures their eligibility for a US visa and confirms they will not use public assistance.
In a post on X, the US embassy explained the rationale. "The Trump Administration focuses on protecting the American people by upholding the highest standards of screening and vetting for visa applicants. Effective January 21, the Department of State pauses issuance to all immigrant visa applicants from selected countries, including Pakistan."
Secretary Rubio instituted this pause until authorities can guarantee thorough vetting. The action applies solely to immigrant visas. It does not affect nonimmigrant visas, such as those for tourists, students, athletes, skilled workers, and their families.
Complete List of Affected Countries
Beyond Pakistan, which other countries face this visa suspension? The full list is extensive and includes seventy-five nations. Here are the countries impacted by the pause:
- Afghanistan
- Albania
- Algeria
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Bahamas
- Bangladesh
- Barbados
- Belarus
- Belize
- Bhutan
- Bosnia
- Brazil
- Burma
- Cambodia
- Cameroon
- Cape Verde
- Colombia
- Cote d’Ivoire
- Cuba
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Dominica
- Egypt
- Eritrea
- Ethiopia
- Fiji
- Gambia
- Georgia
- Ghana
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guinea
- Haiti
- Iran
- Iraq
- Jamaica
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kosovo
- Kuwait
- Kyrgyzstan
- Laos
- Lebanon
- Liberia
- Libya
- Macedonia
- Moldova
- Mongolia
- Montenegro
- Morocco
- Nepal
- Nicaragua
- Nigeria
- Republic of the Congo
- Russia
- Rwanda
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Senegal
- Sierra Leone
- Somalia
- South Sudan
- Sudan
- Syria
- Tanzania
- Thailand
- Togo
- Tunisia
- Uganda
- Uruguay
- Uzbekistan
- Yemen
This comprehensive list highlights the global reach of the US State Department's new policy. The move signals a major shift in immigration procedures under the current administration.
