ISLAMABAD: The United States has announced an indefinite suspension ofimmigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 countries, includingPakistan, effective January 21, 2026. This sweeping measure, confirmed bythe State Department, aims to strengthen screening and prevent entry ofindividuals likely to become dependent on public benefits, known as the”public charge” rule. Thousands of Pakistani nationals awaiting visas forfamily reunification, employment, or other purposes now face prolongeduncertainty, amid broader immigration enforcement under the currentadministration.
The decision stems from an internal State Department memo directingconsular officers to refuse visa applications under existing legalauthorities while a comprehensive review of vetting procedures occurs.Reports indicate that this pause follows heightened scrutiny initiated inNovember 2025, when stricter guidelines were issued globally. Factors suchas age, health, financial status, English proficiency, and potentiallong-term care needs will be rigorously evaluated to determine publiccharge likelihood. No specific timeline for resumption has been provided,raising concerns about disruptions to international mobility.
Pakistan features prominently on the affected list, alongside nations fromdiverse regions including Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil,Nigeria, and Thailand. The full roster encompasses countries across Africa,the Middle East, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe, reflectingconcerns over varying levels of cooperation in sharing security informationand immigration enforcement. For Pakistani applicants, who often seek visasfor education, skilled work, or family ties, this suspension compoundsexisting backlogs and delays at U.S. missions in Islamabad and Karachi.
The policy aligns with longstanding U.S. immigration law provisions thatallow denial of entry to those anticipated to rely on welfare benefits.Officials emphasize that the pause enables reassessment to ensurecompliance and protect American resources. A State Department spokespersonstated that immigration from these 75 countries will remain halted pendingprocedural enhancements. This approach echoes previous restrictions butexpands significantly in scope, affecting a broad spectrum of immigrantvisa categories.
Experts note that the measure could impact bilateral relations,particularly for countries like Pakistan where migration serves economicand familial purposes. Remittances from the U.S. constitute a vitalcomponent of Pakistan’s economy, and prolonged visa halts may affect familysupport networks. Furthermore, students and professionals from affectednations face barriers to pursuing opportunities in the United States,potentially shifting migration patterns toward other destinations.
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The suspension has drawn attention due to its scale, covering diverseeconomies and geopolitical contexts. While some countries on the listalready face partial restrictions, this indefinite pause introduces freshchallenges. Applicants are advised to monitor official U.S. embassyupdates, as exceptions remain limited and case-specific waivers arepossible but rare. The administration’s focus on rigorous vettingunderscores priorities in national security and fiscal responsibility.
In summary, this development marks a significant escalation in U.S.immigration controls, directly affecting Pakistan and prompting widespreadconcern among prospective travelers and migrants. The indefinite nature ofthe pause leaves open questions about future resumption and potentialdiplomatic engagements to address underlying issues.Charge Rule
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