The list of 75 “high-risk” nations includes Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Brazil, Russia, and Nigeria, among others
Washington: The Trump administration has announced a sweeping pause on immigrant visa issuances for nationals from 75 countries, citing concerns over the high rates of welfare usage among migrants from these regions.
Effective from 21 January, the move marks the latest escalation in the administration’s “America First” immigration policy. The State Department confirmed on Wednesday that the freeze is designed to prevent foreigners who are likely to become a “public charge” from settling permanently in the United States.
Targeted Countries
The list of 75 “high-risk” nations includes Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Brazil, Russia, and Nigeria, among others. The administration argues that migrants from these specific countries utilise American public benefits at “unacceptable rates.”
It is important to note the distinction in visa types affected by this announcement:
Impacted: Immigrant Visas (IV). This includes spouses or fiancés of US citizens, family-sponsored immigrants, and certain employment-based applicants seeking permanent residency (Green Cards).
Not Impacted: Non-immigrant Visas (NIV). Tourist visas, business travel, and temporary work or study permits remain unaffected as these individuals do not intend to reside in the US permanently.
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“Financial Self-Sufficiency”
In a statement released by the State Department, the administration emphasised that the policy is rooted in economic protectionism.
“President Trump has made clear that immigrants must be financially self-sufficient and not be a financial burden to Americans,” the statement read. “The freeze will remain active until the US can ensure that new immigrants will not extract wealth from the American people.”
The White House echoed these sentiments on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the review of all policies and regulations is underway to ensure the “generosity of the American people will no longer be abused.”
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Processing and Exemptions
Despite the pause on actually issuing visas, the State Department clarified that the administrative machinery will not ground to a total halt. Nationals from the affected countries may still:
- Submit visa applications.
- Attend scheduled interviews.
- Receive appointment slots.
However, no visas will be printed or issued while the pause remains in effect.
Exemptions: Dual nationals are exempt from the freeze, provided they apply using a valid passport from a country that is not on the list of 75 restricted nations. The department also confirmed that no existing immigrant visas have been revoked as a result of this new guidance.
(PTI)
Published: 15 Jan 2026, 10:56 am IST
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