ЁЯЗ║ЁЯЗ╕ U.S. Suspends Visa Processing for Applicants from 75 Countries


The United States government has announced a major change to its immigration and visa policies by suspending visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, including Russia, Iran, and Afghanistan. This move is scheduled to take effect from January 21, 2026, according to reports citing a memo from the U.S. State Department.

ЁЯУМ What’s Happening?

Under the decision, routine visa processing for people from these countries will be paused, meaning that consular officers have been instructed to deny visa applications under current law while the U.S. government reviews and reassesses its screening and vetting procedures. No official end date has yet been reported.

Countries affected include a wide mix of nations from different regions, with several already subject to previous restrictions on U.S. entry and others newly added to the list. Among those named so far are Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria, and Thailand.

ЁЯФО Why the Change?

The policy shift comes as part of broader U.S. efforts to tighten immigration enforcement, enhance vetting for public safety and national security, and scrutinize applicants more closely. Reports indicate the administration is concerned about individuals who could potentially rely on public assistance or pose administrative challenges.

This approach follows similar immigration actions taken in recent months, including the revocation of large numbers of existing visas and increased background checks as part of intensified enforcement measures.

ЁЯУН What This Means for Applicants

  • Visa processing paused: Affected applicants may not be able to proceed with regular immigrant and non-immigrant visa applications until the suspension is lifted or modified.
  • Alternative processing: Some applicants still may have options to apply at designated consulates or through family-based channels, but these depend on special rules and exceptions.
  • Existing visas: Visas already issued to individuals are not automatically revoked by this suspension; the policy targets new applications.

ЁЯМН Global Reaction and Impact

Countries included in the suspension span multiple continents, and the decision could impact travel, study, work, and family immigration plans for citizens of these nations. There is ongoing analysis internationally as communities and prospective travelers await formal U.S. guidance and further details.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This article is based on publicly available reports and media coverage and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not advocate or oppose U.S. policy or any government action. Immigration rules and policy details may evolve or change with official announcements.