US Suspends Visa Processing for 75 Countries

The United States has announced a temporary suspension of visa processing for citizens from 75 countries, including Rwanda, Russia, and Iran.

The decision was confirmed by the US Department of State.

The suspension affects applicants seeking to move to the United States.

Visa Processing to Stop From January 21, 2026

According to the announcement, the suspension will take effect on January 21, 2026.

Visa processing will remain halted until the US government completes a review of its visa screening procedures.

Diplomatic missions were instructed not to issue visas under the current rules during this period.

Africa Dominates the List

Most of the affected countries are from Africa.

Officials say the decision is based on concerns that some applicants may become dependent on public assistance or misuse social support systems.

A memo sent to US diplomatic missions, obtained by Fox News, confirmed the directive.

US Explains the Decision

US State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott said the move is aimed at protecting American public resources.

“The Department will use its authority to prevent immigration by individuals who may become a public burden or exploit American social welfare systems,” Piggott said.

He added that the policy focuses on applicants who fail to meet established immigration requirements.

Countries Affected by the Visa Suspension

The countries affected include Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia, Brazil, Cambodia, Cameroon, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Moldova, Mongolia, Morocco, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of Congo, Russia, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Yemen, and others.

Review to Determine Next Steps

The US Department of State said the suspension is temporary.

Officials will assess whether visa issuance can safely resume after the review.

No timeline has been provided for when the evaluation will be completed.

Impact on Applicants

The decision affects people seeking work, study, family reunification, or relocation to the United States.

Applicants are advised to follow official US government updates for further guidance.