US freezes immigrant visas for 75 countries over public-charge concerns

TL;DR Summary
The State Department announced a pause on immigrant visa processing for 75 countries, citing the goal of preventing new entrants who would rely on government benefits; the measure takes effect Jan. 21, 2026, after tightened reviews begun in November 2025, and could save about $9 billion annually. Countries cited include Russia, Iran, Somalia, Haiti and Cuba.
- Map shows 75 countries on US visa processing pause list USA Today
- U.S. to suspend immigrant visas from 75 countries over public assistance concerns NPR
- People affected by the US visa freeze: share your experience The Guardian
- New Ban Bars Half of Legal Immigrants, Even Citizens’ Spouses & Kids Cato Institute
- Trump Administration to Halt Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries The New York Times
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