Trump visa suspension: U.S. Halts visa processing for 75 Countries

The Trump visa suspension has sparked global concern after the U.S. government confirmed it will halt visa processing for applicants from 75 countries starting January 21, according to a State Department spokesperson.

U.S. Suspends Visa Processing for 75 Countries

The Trump administration will temporarily stop all visa processing for applicants from 75 countries, a U.S. State Department spokesperson said on Wednesday. The decision follows a State Department memo first reported by Fox News.

The pause directs U.S. embassies to refuse visas under existing laws while officials review current screening procedures. The government did not give a timeline for when visa processing will resume.

Countries Affected by the Visa Pause

According to the report, the affected countries include Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria, and Thailand, among others. The full list has not yet been released publicly.

The suspension will begin on January 21, one day after President Donald Trump’s inauguration anniversary.

Part of Trump’s Broader Immigration Crackdown

The Trump visa suspension forms part of a broader immigration crackdown pursued since the president returned to office last January. His administration has repeatedly pushed stricter border controls and tougher visa policies.

In November, Trump vowed to “permanently pause” migration from what he described as “Third World countries” after a shooting near the White House involving an Afghan national that killed a National Guard member.

No Clear Timeline for Review

State Department officials have not said how long the visa suspension will last. The memo instructs embassies to reassess security and vetting procedures before any processing resumes.

The lack of clarity has raised concerns among students, workers, and families who planned to travel to or reunite in the United States.

International and Domestic Reactions

Immigration advocates warn the move could disrupt education, labor markets, and family reunification. Supporters of the policy argue it strengthens national security.