Updated List: Countries Facing US Immigrant Visa Processing Halt
As you plan your move to the United States, a major policy shift announced on January 14, 2026, could impact your dreams. The U.S. State Department is pausing immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries starting January 21, 2026, targeting those deemed high-risk for public benefits usage.
This list of 75 countries US visa suspension affects nearly half of legal immigrants, building on prior restrictions. You might be wondering if your country is included or how to navigate this. This guide delivers the full updated details, requirements, processes, and expert strategies to help you prepare.
Introduction to the List of 75 Countries US Visa Suspension
The U.S. State Department memo, reported widely on January 14, 2026, halts immigrant visa issuances indefinitely for nationals from 75 countries.[1][2][3] This 75 countries immigrant visa pause addresses concerns over migrants accessing welfare at 'unacceptable rates,' per the Department's X post.[1] The pause begins January 21, 2026, allowing interviews but no visa issuances until vetting improves.[6]
Key affected countries include Somalia, Russia, Afghanistan, Brazil, Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Nigeria, Thailand, and Yemen, with a full list emerging from official sources.[2] Nigeria US visa suspension is confirmed, alongside many African nations (39 total), making up 70% of African countries impacted.[5] Asian countries face 44% restriction rates.[5] This builds on existing bans for 40 countries, totaling 93 restricted nationalities covering 42% of global applicants.[5]
You can still file petitions and attend interviews, but expect delays. Non-immigrant visas like tourist or business remain unaffected, crucial for events like the 2026 World Cup.[2]
Key Requirements and Eligibility for Affected Applicants
Even with the pause, core immigrant visa requirements persist. You must prove you won't become a 'public charge' under expanded rules proposed in November 2025.[3] Show strong financial ties, employment, or sponsor affidavits.[6]
- Approved Petition: Secure Form I-130 (family) or I-140 (employment) approval from USCIS first. This pause doesn't cancel petitions.[4]
- Public Charge Evidence: Submit tax returns, bank statements, health insurance proof, and sponsor Form I-864. High-risk nationalities face stricter scrutiny.[1]
- Nationality Check: Confirm if you're from the US State Department country list. Dual nationals may qualify via non-affected passports.[6]
- Exceptions: Possible waivers for spouses/kids of U.S. citizens, athletes for World Cup, or humanitarian cases, though not yet detailed.[2][5]
For example, if you're a Nigerian software engineer with a U.S. job offer, gather extra assets documentation to counter public charge risks during reassessment.[4]
Step-by-Step Process During the Immigrant Visa Pause
Navigate the affected countries visa ban with this streamlined process. Processing halts at issuance, but preparation continues.
- File USCIS Petition: U.S. petitioner submits I-130/I-140. Approval takes 12-24 months typically; unaffected by pause.[4]
- National Visa Center (NVC): Pay fees, submit DS-260 form, and documents. NVC processes continue.[6]
- Schedule Interview: Attend embassy interview post-NVC. Officers assess but won't issue visas yet.[6]
- Await Pause Lift: Monitor State Department for vetting updates. Re-interview if needed post-pause.[1]
- Adjustment of Status Alternative: If in U.S. legally, file I-485 domestically; USCIS may align policies.[5]
Real scenario: A Brazilian family with approved I-130 attends their January 25 interview. Visa denied issuance, but records stay active for future.[2]
Costs and Timeline for US Immigrant Visas from Suspended Countries
Fees remain standard amid the 75 countries immigrant visa pause. Expect prolonged timelines.[p>
- Petition Fees: I-130 ($675), I-140 ($715). No changes.[6]
- NVC/Visa Fees: DS-260 ($325/person), Affidavit of Support ($120), Medical exam ($200-500).[4]
- Total per Applicant: $1,500-$3,000 including miscellany.
Timelines: Petition approval 1-2 years, NVC 3-6 months, interview wait 1-12 months varying by country. Post-pause issuance: Indefinite, potentially 6-18 months extra.[1][3] Nigeria waits average 8 months pre-pause; now unpredictable.[5]
| Stage | Cost | Pre-Pause Timeline | Post-Jan 21 Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| USCIS Petition | $675-$715 | 12-24 months | Unchanged |
| NVC Processing | $445 | 3-6 months | Ongoing |
| Visa Interview/Issuance | $325 + medical | 1-12 months | Paused indefinitely |
Budget for delays; save for extended living costs abroad.
Common Challenges and Solutions During the Visa Halt
You'll face hurdles with the list of 75 countries US visa suspension. Here's how to overcome them.
- Challenge: Interview but No Visa. Solution: Request status updates quarterly via embassy portals.[6]
- Challenge: Public Charge Denial Risk. Solution: Build robust financial proof; consider co-sponsors.[3]
- Challenge: Dual Nationality. Solution: Apply via non-suspended passport country.[4]
- Challenge: Family Separation. Solution: Explore temporary B-2 visas or parole options if humanitarian.[2]
Example: An Egyptian applicant strengthens I-864 with U.S. relative's $80K income, passing scrutiny faster post-pause.[5]
Expert Tips and Recommendations for Navigating the Pause
As a seasoned traveler, here's insider advice for the US State Department country list.
- Monitor Daily: Check travel.state.gov for list updates and exceptions.[6]
- Consult Immigration Attorney: Get case-specific plans; firms like Thomas Lee offer free consults.[4]
- Strengthen Application: Exceed minimums—show 3x income requirements.
- Alternative Paths: Diversity Visa if eligible (pre-lottery entry), or investor EB-5 ($800K min).
- World Cup Travelers: Non-immigrant visas safe; apply early.[2]
Pro Tip: Join expat forums for real-time embassy insights from fellow applicants.
FAQ: Common Questions on List of 75 Countries US Visa Suspension
Is Nigeria on the 75 countries immigrant visa pause list?
Yes, Nigeria faces partial restrictions under expanded rules, confirmed in State Department directives.[1][2]
What if I have an approved petition from an affected country?
Petitions stay valid; attend interviews, but visas pause until reassessment.[4][6]
Does this affect green card holders or U.S. arrivals?
No, only new immigrant visa issuances abroad. Existing green cards safe.[4]
Are there waivers for the affected countries visa ban?
Limited: Possible for U.S. citizen immediate relatives or special events like World Cup support staff.[2][5]
How long will the 75 countries US visa suspension last?
Indefinite, until vetting overhaul; monitor for 2026 updates.[1][3]
Can I apply for non-immigrant visas from suspended countries?
Yes, B1/B2 tourist visas unaffected.[2]
What if I'm dual national from a non-affected country?
Apply using the eligible passport for processing.[6]
Conclusion & Resources
Master the list of 75 countries US visa suspension by preparing documents now and tracking travel.state.gov. Consult attorneys for personalized next steps.[6][4]
