Immigrant Visa Issuances Paused for Nationals of 75 Countries

The Trump administration has announced that it is pausing certain immigrant visa issuances while it conducts what it describes as a broad review of immigration policies related to financial self-sufficiency and public charge concerns. According to the administration, the pause is intended to ensure that future immigrants do not rely on public benefits in the United States.

As a result, the Department of State has implemented a significant pause affecting immigrant visa applicants from a large number of countries.

Immigrant Visa Issuance Pause Effective January 21, 2026

As of January 21, 2026, the Department of State has suspended all immigrant visa issuances for applicants who are nationals of the countries listed below. This pause applies specifically to the issuance of immigrant visas at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.

Affected countries include:

Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Burma, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Colombia, Cote d’Ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, The Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyz Republic, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Pakistan, 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, and Yemen.

Nationals of these countries who are applying for immigrant visas through consular processing will not receive visa issuance during the pause, even if they are otherwise eligible.

What Happens to Existing Immigrant Visa Interview Appointments?

Immigrant visa applicants who are nationals of affected countries may still submit their applications and may still attend scheduled immigrant visa interviews. The Department of State has indicated that it will continue to schedule and conduct interviews.

However, no immigrant visas will be issued to affected nationals during the pause period. This means that even if an interview is completed successfully, the case will not result in visa issuance until further guidance is issued or the pause is lifted.

Are There Any Exceptions?

Yes. Dual nationals may be exempt from this pause if they apply using a valid passport from a country that is not on the affected list. In those cases, the pause does not apply.

This exception can be highly technical and fact-specific. Applicants with dual nationality should seek legal guidance before relying on this exemption.

Does This Affect Already Issued Immigrant Visas?

No. The Department of State has confirmed that no immigrant visas have been revoked as part of this guidance.

For questions regarding admission to the United States, including inspection at a port of entry, applicants should note that admission decisions are made by the Department of Homeland Security, not the Department of State.

Does This Pause Apply to Tourist Visas or Other Nonimmigrant Visas?

No. This pause applies only to immigrant visas. Tourist visas and other nonimmigrant visas are not affected by this policy.

Does This Pause Affect People Already in the United States Who Are Filing for Adjustment of Status?

No. This pause does not apply to individuals who are already in the United States and are eligible to file for Adjustment of Status with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

The Department of State’s guidance applies only to immigrant visa issuance at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad. Adjustment of Status is a separate process that is handled entirely by USCIS, which operates under the Department of Homeland Security, not the Department of State.

Applicants who are physically present in the United States and otherwise eligible to adjust status may continue to file Form I-485 and pursue lawful permanent residence through USCIS. At this time, there is no indication that USCIS has paused or restricted Adjustment of Status filings or approvals as a result of this policy.

That said, eligibility for Adjustment of Status depends on many factors, including manner of entry, immigration history, and admissibility. Not everyone qualifies to adjust status, even if they are currently in the United States.

What Should Applicants and Petitioners Do Now?

This pause creates uncertainty for many families and employers who are in the middle of the immigrant visa process. While applications and interviews may continue, the inability to issue immigrant visas can result in prolonged delays and family separation.

If you or a family member may be affected by this pause, or if you are unsure whether consular processing or Adjustment of Status is the best option in your situation, it is important to consult with an experienced immigration attorney. Each case is fact-specific, and strategic planning is often critical under rapidly changing immigration policies.

To schedule a consultation with Tran Flores Law, please call us at (512) 894-9984 to discuss your situation and receive guidance tailored to your case. We will continue to closely monitor developments and provide updates as additional information becomes available.