ISLAMABAD: The United States has announced an indefinite suspension ofimmigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, includingPakistan, sparking widespread concern among aspiring immigrants seekingpermanent residency. The policy, set to take effect from January 21, 2026,does not extend to nonimmigrant visas such as visit (B1/B2), business,tourist, or student (F1) categories, contrary to initial rumors circulatingin affected nations. Officials attribute the move to enhanced screeningunder the public charge rule, aiming to prevent future reliance on publicbenefits. This development follows a series of immigration tighteningmeasures under the current administration, raising questions aboutlong-term access to permanent US residency for thousands from developingcountries.
The suspension specifically targets immigrant visas, which allowindividuals to obtain green cards for family reunification, employment, orother permanent pathways. According to multiple reports from credibleinternational media outlets, the list encompasses diverse nations acrossAfrica, the Middle East, Latin America, Asia, and the Caribbean. Pakistanfeatures prominently alongside Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Russia,Somalia, Brazil, and Thailand. The State Department emphasized that thepause will remain in place until reassessment of adjudication proceduresensures compliance with stricter welfare dependency standards. This hascreated uncertainty for applicants with pending cases or those planningfamily-based immigration.
Data from the US Department of State indicates that the decision stems froma November 2025 directive instructing consular officers to enforce rigorouspublic charge provisions. Immigrant visa applicants from the designatedcountries now face halted interviews and issuances, potentially delayingplans for years. In contrast, nonimmigrant visa processing continuesuninterrupted, with current wait times in Pakistan showing B1/B2appointments available in approximately 6.5 to 7 months at Islamabad andKarachi, while student visas (F1) remain accessible within one month. Thisdistinction is crucial, as nonimmigrant visas constitute the majority ofapplications from Pakistan, often used for tourism, business, education,and short-term visits.
The inclusion of 75 countries reflects a broad approach to addressperceived risks of public benefits usage among future immigrants. Analystsnote that many listed nations have high rates of family-sponsoredimmigration, which could be significantly impacted. For Pakistan, whereannual immigrant visa demand remains substantial due to family ties in theUS, the suspension could affect thousands of pending cases. However,existing valid visas remain unaffected, and no revocations have beenreported for previously issued documents. The policy aligns with broaderexecutive actions, including a recent presidential proclamation restrictingentry from certain countries for security reasons.
International observers highlight the timing of the announcement, occurringamid preparations for major global events hosted by the US, such as the2026 FIFA World Cup. Demand for nonimmigrant visitor visas is projected tosurge, prompting assurances that temporary travel remains open. The StateDepartment has clarified that the immigrant visa freeze supports enhancedvetting without disrupting tourist, business, or educational exchanges.Applicants from Pakistan and other affected nations are advised to monitorofficial embassy updates for any future exemptions or adjustments to thepolicy.
Critics argue that the blanket suspension disproportionately affectslower-income countries with established migration patterns to the US.Reports indicate that the measure expands on earlier travel restrictionsand public charge enforcements introduced in late 2025. For student andbusiness visa seekers, however, routine processing persists, supported byongoing embassy operations in Islamabad and Karachi. This has provided somerelief to the education sector, where Pakistani students continue to pursueopportunities in American universities without immediate barriers.
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The long-term implications remain uncertain, as the State Department hasdescribed the pause as indefinite pending review. Diplomatic engagementsbetween Pakistan and the US may address the issue, with hopes forresumption of normal immigrant processing. In the interim, individualsplanning permanent relocation are urged to explore alternative pathways orawait policy clarifications. The decision underscores the administration’sfocus on immigration reform, balancing security concerns with economic andhumanitarian considerations.
Source:https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-suspend-visa-processing-75-nations-next-week-fox-news-reports-2026-01-14
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