The U.S. government has announced a temporary suspension of the issuance of immigrant visas to citizens of 75 countries, including the Caribbean nations, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia.
The key point is that this applies only to immigrant visas, which allow individuals to relocate to the United States permanently and obtain a Green Card. Non-immigrant visas (such as tourist, student, and work visas) continue to be issued as usual.
- The pause takes effect on January 21, 2026, and will remain in place for an indefinite period until the review of visa issuance procedures is completed.
- The decision initially caused confusion in the media, as some early reports suggested that all types of visas, including tourist visas, were affected. This was later clarified by official sources.
What this means:
- Applicants from the listed countries may still submit documents and attend interviews, but immigrant visas will not be issued until the suspension is lifted.
- Exceptions may apply in certain cases (for example, for dual citizens holding a passport from a country not on the list).
The decision is explained by the need to reassess financial self-sufficiency requirements for future immigrants and to reduce the risk of reliance on U.S. social benefits.
