US Halts Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries in Major Immigration Clampdown

US Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries, Sparking Global Debate

The United States has announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries , effective January 21 , marking a renewed tightening of immigration policy under President Donald Trump . The decision, confirmed by the US State Department , has drawn international attention due to the inclusion of several politically stable and economically sound nations.

Scope and Timeline of the Suspension

The suspension applies only to immigrant visas , including family-sponsored and employment-based permanent residency categories. Non-immigrant visas —such as tourist, student, and short-term business visas—remain unaffected.

Officials indicated that the pause will remain in force until a comprehensive review of screening procedures and eligibility standards is completed . The move follows earlier internal directives urging US embassies and consulates to place greater emphasis on applicants’ financial self-sufficiency .

Rationale: Public Charge Concerns

According to the State Department, the decision is rooted in concerns related to the “public charge” provision under US immigration law. This provision allows authorities to deny immigrant visas if applicants are assessed as likely to depend on government welfare.

Internal policy reviews reportedly highlighted higher historical usage of public benefits among immigrant populations from some of the listed countries. US officials argue that the temporary suspension is intended to reduce long-term fiscal pressure on federal and state welfare systems and to recalibrate admission standards.

Controversy Over Country Selection

The inclusion of countries such as Thailand, Bhutan, Kuwait, Brazil, and Uruguay has surprised analysts and policymakers alike. These nations are widely considered economically stable or diplomatically close to Washington .

• Thailand has formally sought clarification from US officials, questioning the basis for its inclusion.

• Bhutan’s case has been linked by analysts to historical refugee resettlement patterns involving ethnic Nepali populations.

• Kuwait , despite its high per-capita income, appears to have been flagged due to welfare usage data among a small migrant cohort, raising questions about methodology.

The lack of transparency around data thresholds and assessment criteria has fuelled diplomatic unease and policy criticism.

Exam-Focused Key Points

• The suspension applies only to immigrant visas , not tourist, student, or business visas.

• It is linked to the “public charge” rule under US immigration law.

• The measure affects 75 countries across multiple regions .

• Screening standards and welfare dependency are central to the policy rationale.

India’s Exclusion and Broader Implications

Notably, India has been excluded from the suspension. Experts attribute this to low welfare dependency , strong