State Department Suspends Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries: What You Need to Know

In a significant policy shift, the U.S. Department of State has indefinitely suspended the issuance of new immigrant visas to nationals of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026. This unexpected pause, announced on January 14, 2026, is pending a comprehensive internal security review and affects a wide range of countries, including Afghanistan, Brazil, Colombia, Egypt, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Ukraine. The suspension applies to individuals abroad who are in the process of applying for lawful permanent residence (a green card). While visa interviews may still be conducted, no new immigrant visas will be issued to citizens of these nations until the suspension is lifted. The State Department has not provided a timeline for the completion of its review. It is important to note that this policy does not affect nonimmigrant visas, such as those for tourism (B-1/B-2), temporary work (H-1B, L-1), or students. Additionally, individuals already in the United States applying for adjustment of status are not directly impacted by this specific directive, though they may be subject to other related policy changes. Visas issued prior to January 21, 2026, have not been revoked.