75 Countries Visa Pause Full List: Why US Will Suspend Immigrant Visa Processing This Month

The U.S. State Department just made a move that changes everything for thousands of families. Starting January 21, 2026, the U.S. to suspend immigrant visas from 75 countries indefinitely. This isn’t just a policy tweak; it is a full-scale freeze on permanent residency. If you are waiting for a Green Card in Pakistan, Egypt, or Brazil, the door just closed for now.

The decision stems from concerns over “public charges.” The Trump administration wants to ensure new arrivals do not rely on taxpayer-funded benefits. Officials claim some countries show “unacceptable rates” of welfare use. Secretary of State Marco Rubio says this pause allows time to fix screening rules. They want to block anyone who might “extract wealth” from the American system.

The new rules look at your age, health, and English skills. If the government thinks you might need Medicaid or food stamps later, they will likely deny your visa. This “wealth test” is the centerpiece of the new U.S. policy to suspend immigrant visas from 75 countries.

75 Countries Visa Pause Full List

The suspension hits 75 nations across Africa, Asia, and the Americas. While tourism remains open, moving to the U.S. permanently is now on hold for these citizens:

• South Asia: Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan.
• Middle East: Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen.
• Africa: Nigeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Somalia, Sudan, Uganda, Tanzania.
• Americas: Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Nicaragua.
• Eurasia: Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Uzbekistan.

Note: India is not on this list. Immigrant visa processing for Indian nationals continues normally for now.

The 75 countries’ visa pause full list primarily affects those seeking family-based or employment-based Green Cards. If your interview is already scheduled, you can still go. However, the consulate will not print your visa. They will hold your case until the “review” ends. There is no set date for when this will finish.

If you already have a valid immigrant visa in your passport, you are safe. This order does not revoke existing visas. It also does not stop students or tourists from traveling. The U.S. still plans to host the 2026 World Cup and wants those visitors to come.