On January 21, 2026, the U.S. Department of State announced a significant shift in immigration policy, implementing a pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries. This change, effective immediately, is part of a broader reassessment of the country’s admissibility standards, particularly those related to public-charge criteria, which assess whether an immigrant is likely to rely on government assistance. The freeze affects a range of immigrant visas, including those for family- and employment-based green cards, but does not impact nonimmigrant visas such as those for tourists, students, or business travelers.
This decision is part of the U.S. government’s ongoing efforts to refine its immigration policies and procedures, particularly in light of concerns about public charge rules. By temporarily halting immigrant visa processing, the U.S. Department of State is reviewing and adjusting its screening protocols, which could have far-reaching effects on legal immigration pathways. While the freeze is not a permanent ban on immigration, it will disrupt the process for many individuals seeking to immigrate to the U.S. through family reunification or employment-based sponsorships.
The pause on immigrant visa processing is expected to create significant delays for applicants from affected countries, particularly those who were in the process of securing green cards or waiting for visa interviews. As a result, many families and individuals who had been planning to move to the U.S. may face extended waiting periods before they can proceed with their immigration plans. Additionally, businesses that rely on foreign workers through employment-based green card programs could experience disruptions in their workforce planning.
Despite the pause, nonimmigrant visa categories, including tourist visas, student visas, and business travel visas, remain unaffected. This distinction means that individuals seeking to enter the U.S. temporarily will still be able to apply for and receive their visas as usual, provided they meet the necessary criteria. However, the halt on immigrant visas is expected to have a substantial impact on legal immigration, particularly for those hoping to establish permanent residence in the United States.
This pause in processing is seen as a move toward refining and clarifying the country’s immigration system, with the State Department indicating that further guidance will be issued as consular officers worldwide receive updates on the new protocols. While it is unclear how long the freeze will last, the move is part of a broader strategy to align the U.S. immigration system with new standards, and it is likely to lead to ongoing discussions about how best to balance the need for security and economic considerations with the country’s long-standing commitment to legal immigration.
For now, those affected by the pause on immigrant visas will have to wait for further developments from the State Department, which is expected to continue refining the criteria and procedures that govern U.S. immigration. In the meantime, this policy shift represents a significant moment in the ongoing debate about the future of immigration in the United States, with potential implications for both individuals and businesses.
