USA Stops Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries in 2026: Full List & What It Means. The USA immigrant visa suspension 2026 has shocked millions of applicants worldwide.
If you are from Pakistan or any affected country, this guide explains what happened, why it matters, and what to do next in clear terms.
What Is the USA Immigrant Visa Suspension 2026?
The United States of America has announced an indefinite pause on immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, including Pakistan.
This decision follows an internal directive issued by the U.S. Department of State.
All US embassies and consulates worldwide have been instructed to temporarily stop issuing immigrant visas.
Key Highlights
- Suspension starts January 21, 2026
- Applies to immigrant visas only
- Duration is indefinite
- Screening and vetting rules under review
Why Did the USA Stop Immigrant Visas?
The main goal is to reassess visa screening standards under existing US immigration law.
According to official guidance, visa officers must now focus on whether an applicant is likely to depend on government assistance after entering the US.
Core Reasons Behind the Decision
- Public charge concerns
- Financial self-sufficiency review
- Healthcare cost risks
- Long-term dependency prevention
This move is not a ban.
It is a temporary administrative freeze during policy reassessment.
Statement From the U.S. State Department
A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, Tommy Piggott, confirmed the policy.
He stated that the department will use existing legal authority to protect US taxpayers from potential financial burden.
This confirms the suspension is law-based, not political.
Full List of 75 Countries Affected by the Visa Suspension
Below is the complete and verified list of countries where US immigrant visa processing is paused.
Countries With Suspended US Immigrant Visas
| Region | Countries |
|---|---|
| South Asia | Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal |
| Middle East | Iran, Iraq, Syria, Yemen |
| Africa | Nigeria, Somalia, Sudan, Ethiopia |
| Europe | Russia, Belarus, Moldova |
| Americas | Haiti, Cuba, Guatemala |
| Asia-Pacific | Thailand, Mongolia, Laos |
Pakistan Is Officially Included
Applicants from Pakistan are directly affected.
New immigrant visa approvals are on hold until further notice.
Does This Affect All Types of US Visas?
No.
This policy does not apply to every visa category.
Affected Visas
- Family-based immigrant visas
- Employment-based immigrant visas
- Diversity Visa (DV Lottery)
Not Affected
- Tourist visas (B1/B2)
- Student visas (F-1, M-1)
- Work visas (H-1B, L-1)
- Diplomatic visas
Non-immigrant visas continue as normal.
New Stricter Screening Criteria Explained
A confidential memo issued in November 2025 outlines expanded vetting standards.
Visa officers must now assess applicants using multiple personal and financial factors.
Factors Under Review
- Age of applicant
- Chronic health conditions
- English language ability
- Employment prospects
- Financial stability
- Medical insurance coverage
Applicants with long-term health issues or limited income face higher rejection risk.
Who Is Most Likely to Be Rejected?
Based on current guidance, these applicants may face difficulties:
- Elderly applicants
- Applicants with chronic illnesses
- Individuals with past public aid use
- Low-income applicants without sponsors
Even past institutionalization can now impact decisions.
What Happens to Pending Visa Applications?
If your immigrant visa application is already submitted:
- Processing is paused, not cancelled
- No interviews during suspension
- No final approvals issued
Your case remains on record until policy changes.
Can You Appeal or Reapply?
At this stage:
- Appeals are not entertained
- Reapplication will face same freeze
- Legal challenges may take time
Experts advise waiting for official reopening announcements.
How Long Will the Suspension Last?
There is no official end date.
The suspension will stay active until:
- Vetting rules are finalized
- New evaluation criteria approved
- Embassies receive fresh instructions
This could take months.
What Should Pakistani Applicants Do Now?
If you are from Pakistan, follow these steps:
Recommended Actions
- Monitor US embassy updates
- Prepare stronger financial documentation
- Secure medical insurance
- Improve English proficiency
- Avoid misinformation on social media
Stay alert.
Policy changes can happen suddenly.
FAQs
Is the USA banning immigrants in 2026?
No. The USA has paused immigrant visa processing for selected countries, not banned immigration.
Is Pakistan included in the US visa suspension?
Yes. Pakistan is officially listed among the 75 affected countries.
Are student visas affected by this suspension?
No. Student and tourist visas continue as usual.
When will US immigrant visas reopen?
There is no confirmed reopening date yet.
Can I still apply for a US tourist visa?
Yes. Non-immigrant visas are not affected.
Conclusion
The USA immigrant visa suspension for 75 countries in 2026 is a major shift in global immigration policy.
For applicants from Pakistan, patience and preparation are key.
