The United States will suspend the processing of immigrant visas for nationals from 75 countries from next week, the State Department has said.
The move, which is due to take effect on 21 January, will pause decisions on applications for permanent residence, often referred to as green cards.
Officials said the measure would remain in place while the government reviews its screening procedures.
The State Department said the suspension is linked to concerns that some applicants could become dependent on public assistance once in the US. A spokesperson said the department was using existing immigration law provisions that allow visas to be denied to people considered likely to become a “public charge”.
The pause applies only to immigrant visas and does not affect non-immigrant visas, such as those for tourists, business travellers or students.
Countries affected span several regions, including parts of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas. Among those reported to be on the list are Afghanistan, Iran, Nigeria, Russia, Somalia, Brazil and Thailand. Officials have not published a full list or indicated how long the suspension will last.
The decision is part of a broader tightening of immigration policy under President Donald Trump’s administration, which has introduced tougher screening measures and expanded restrictions since returning to office.
Critics says the move could delay or prevent legal migration for hundreds of thousands of people and lead to prolonged family separations.
Supporters also argue it is necessary to protect public finances and ensure the integrity of the immigration system.
US embassies and consulates around the world are expected to stop issuing affected immigrant visas once the suspension comes into force, while existing applications will remain on hold pending further guidance.
