Visa Processing Frozen for 75 Countries

The U.S. State Department has announced a halt to immigrant visa processing for 75 countries as part of an effort to curb dependence on government assistance.

A memo from the State Department indicates that consulates worldwide have been instructed to deny visa applications while they reassess their screening processes. The countries affected include, but are not limited to, Afghanistan, Algeria, Cuba, Nigeria, and Russia. The full list features a broad range of nations from various continents.

This action appears to align with the Trump administration’s ongoing initiative to limit entry for individuals who might depend on public welfare in the U.S. The suspension is set to begin on January 21st and will remain in effect indefinitely, pending a thorough review of immigration procedures.

“The State Department will utilize its longstanding authority to disqualify immigrants who could be a public burden and who might misuse American generosity,” stated State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott.

He added that immigration from these 75 countries would be restricted and emphasized the need to reevaluate the processing protocols to eliminate the entry of those who might rely on public benefits.