U.S. Halts Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries in Sweeping Public Charge Crackdown

Last updated on 10 minutes ago

WASHINGTON (Visas & Travels) — The U.S. State Department has imposed an indefinite pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026, as part of a broader effort to strengthen enforcement of the “public charge” rule and prevent applicants likely to rely on public benefits from entering the country. The decision, outlined in an internal department memo first reported by Fox News, marks one of the most expansive immigration measures yet in the Trump administration’s renewed crackdown.

The public charge provision, rooted in longstanding U.S. immigration law, allows consular officers to deny visas to individuals deemed likely to become primarily dependent on government assistance, such as welfare, long-term medical care, or other public benefits. The memo directs officers to apply the rule more rigorously during the pause, considering factors including age, health status, English proficiency, financial resources, and potential future needs. Officials have indicated that older applicants, those with certain health conditions, or individuals with limited financial stability could face heightened denials.

State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott stated: “The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people. Immigration from these 75 countries will be paused while the State Department reassesses immigration processing procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who would take welfare and public benefits.”

The pause applies specifically to immigrant visas (those leading to permanent residency, such as family-sponsored or employment-based green cards) processed at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad. Non-immigrant visas (temporary visitor, student, or business visas like B-1/B-2, F, or J) may continue on a case-by-case basis, but applicants from affected countries should anticipate significant delays and stricter scrutiny. Exceptions during the review period will be “very limited” and granted only after thorough public charge assessments.

The affected countries span Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Key nations include:

• Africa: Algeria, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda
• Asia: Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Georgia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Syria, Thailand, Uzbekistan, Yemen
• Europe: Albania, Belarus, Bosnia, Kosovo, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia
• Latin America & Caribbean: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Dominica, Fiji, Grenada, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Nicaragua, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Uruguay
• Middle East: Kuwait

This list encompasses major U.S. tourism and migration sources, such as Brazil (a top contributor to leisure travel in Florida and New York), Nigeria (significant family and business ties), and Thailand (popular for tourism and education exchanges). The inclusion of countries like Russia and Iran, already facing restrictions, amplifies existing barriers.

The move builds on a November 2025 State Department cable that instructed global posts to enforce stricter public charge screening. It aligns with broader administration priorities to curb perceived exploitation of U.S. resources, amid ongoing immigration enforcement efforts.

Potential Impact on Travel and Tourism

The pause could ripple through the U.S. tourism industry, which welcomed over 80 million international visitors in 2025. Reduced family reunification and immigrant pathways may deter group travel, conferences, and long-term visits from affected regions. Popular destinations like Disney World, Las Vegas, and national parks often rely on visitors from Brazil, Nigeria, and other listed nations.

Airlines, hotels, and tour operators may face booking declines, particularly ahead of major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup co-hosted by the U.S. Critics argue the policy disproportionately affects lower-income applicants and could limit cultural diversity in tourism, while supporters view it as essential for protecting taxpayer-funded benefits.

The department has provided no timeline for completing the reassessment, leaving uncertainty for applicants and the travel sector.

Travel Tip: Monitor travel.state.gov and contact the nearest U.S. embassy for case-specific guidance. Those planning trips should explore visa alternatives or consult immigration experts early to avoid disruptions.