The Department of State (DOS) paused immigrant visas for individuals from seventy-five countries. The DOS explained the move limits immigration from individuals that are likely to be overly reliant on government support. It’s uncertain how long the restrictions will last.
Affected Countries
Immigration visas are paused until further notice for the following countries:
- Cuba.
- Jamaica.
- Haiti.
- Guatemala.
- Belize.
- Nicaragua.
- Colombia.
- Brazil.
- Uruguay.
- Morocco.
- Algeria.
- Tunisia.
- Libya.
- Egypt.
- Sudan.
- South Sudan.
- Eritrea.
- Ethiopia.
- Somalia.
- Tanzania.
- Uganda.
- Rwanda.
- Democratic Republic of Congo.
- Republic of Congo.
- Cameroon.
- Nigeria.
- Togo.
- Ghana.
- Ivory Coast.
- Liberia.
- Guinea.
- Sierra Leone.
- Gambia.
- Senegal.
- Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Montenegro.
- Albania.
- North Macedonia.
- Moldova.
- Belarus.
- Russia.
- Georgia.
- Armenia.
- Azerbaijan.
- Jordan.
- Syria.
- Lebanon.
- Iraq.
- Kuwait.
- Iran.
- Yemen.
- Afghanistan.
- Pakistan.
- Uzbekistan.
- Tajikistan.
- Kazakhstan.
- Nepal.
- Bhutan.
- Bangladesh.
- Myanmar.
- Laos.
- Cambodia.
- Thailand.
Pausing immigration visas is the latest in a series of efforts restricting documented immigration to the U.S. The government expanded the number of countries subject to partial or complete entry bans to thirty-nine in December, 2025. Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposed stricter criteria regarding who’s admissible to the U.S. as a public charge in November, 2025.
Despite the government’s claims, most immigrants aren’t eligible for benefits when they first arrive in the U.S. Additionally, their admission as immigrants is considered a legally binding affidavit of support their sponsors. In short, entering the U.S. as an immigrant comes with the implication that their financial needs are covered.
As always, Immigration USA actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, we’re with you every step of the way.