U.S. Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Nations Citing Public Benefit Concerns

WASHINGTON — In a move that significantly escalates the administration’s “America First” immigration agenda, the U.S. State Department announced Wednesday that it will indefinitely suspend immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries. The directive, set to take effect on January 21, 2026, targets nations whose citizens the administration deems likely to require public assistance, or become a “public charge,” upon entering the United States.

The suspension follows a series of internal memos and a November guidance led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. According to State Department officials, the pause is necessary to allow for a comprehensive reassessment of screening and vetting standards. The administration argues that current procedures are insufficient to prevent the entry of individuals who might rely on taxpayer-funded welfare programs.

“Protecting the American Taxpayer”

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott characterized the decision as a defensive measure for the U.S. economy. “The Trump administration is bringing an end to the abuse of America’s immigration system by those who would extract wealth from the American people,” Pigott stated. He emphasized that the “pause” would remain active until the government can ensure that new immigrants possess the financial means to support themselves without government aid.

The “public charge” rule has long been a part of U.S. immigration law, but this implementation marks a historic shift by applying the standard as a blanket suspension based on nationality. Factors now under increased scrutiny include an applicant’s age, health, financial assets, and English-language proficiency.

Nations Affected and Economic Impact

While the State Department has not yet released the full official list to the public, leaked internal documents identify a diverse array of 75 nations. Major countries reported to be on the list include Russia, Brazil, Nigeria, Egypt, Thailand, Iran, and Afghanistan. The inclusion of Brazil is particularly notable, as the country is a major trade partner and is expected to send thousands of fans to the U.S. for the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer.

To mitigate immediate economic fallout, officials clarified that the suspension currently applies only to immigrant visas—those seeking permanent residency. Non-immigrant visas, such as temporary tourist (B-2) and business (B-1) visas, are currently excluded from this specific pause, allowing for continued travel for the World Cup and the 2028 Olympics.

A Pattern of Tightened Borders

This latest directive builds on Presidential Proclamation 10998, which went into effect on January 1, 2026, and already restricted entry from 19 countries due to national security concerns. Human rights organizations and immigration advocates have criticized the move, calling it “discriminatory” and warning that it could separate families indefinitely.

Legal experts expect the order to face immediate challenges in federal court. However, the administration remains firm, noting that the suspension is a temporary, albeit indefinite, measure while the State Department “hardens” the border against those who do not meet the new, stricter financial requirements.

Sources:

• Forbes: Trump Freezes Immigration Visas For 75 Countries
• The Moscow Times: U.S. Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries
• The Hindu: U.S. to suspend visa processing for 75 nations next week
• Kyiv Independent: US suspends all visa processing for 75 countries
• Erickson Immigration Group: State Dept. to Stop Visa Issuance for 75 Countries