US Freezes Immigrant Visas for 75 Nations — See Who’s on the List

On January 21, 2026, the U.S. State Department revealed that it has frozen the processing of immigrant visas to applicants of 75 countries. The policy gives priority to the countries with immigrants who are considered to be likely to join the ranks of those considered to be a burden on the state by having to pay minimal taxes based on their welfare needs that are financed by the taxpayers. The list is topped by countries such as Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria, and Thailand among others such as Pakistan, Egypt, Yemen, and Iraq. The fact is that the break-up will enable a re-evaluation of screening processes as per the current legislation, which will save tourist visas and existing approvals. This action is in line with the immigration crackdown by President Donald Trump to safeguard the American resources.​

Visa Freeze Impact on Key Nations

Family reunification and employment-based immigration to the affected countries are affected by the immigrant visa freeze. Somalia is under an additional level of examination because of Minnesota welfare fraud cases involving Somali citizens. The locations of high-risk regions include Africa (Nigeria, Ethiopia), the Middle East (Iran, Yemen), Latin America (Brazil, Colombia), and Asia (Pakistan, Thailand).​

Full List of 75 Countries

Special cases: Afghanistan, Albania, Bangladesh, Bosnia, Cambodia, Cuba, Egypt, Ghana, Haiti, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Nepal, Russia, Senegal, Sudan, Syria, Uganda, Uzbekistan. The policy is permanent until the upgrading of the vetting makes sure that it does not place any weight on the people.​

Official Social Media Update

policy updates in form of official U.S. Department of State account: https://x.com/StateDept

​