The United States has announced the suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, marking the latest immigration restriction introduced under President Donald Trump’s administration.
A spokesperson for the US State Department confirmed on Wednesday that immigrant visa applications from the affected countries would be paused until further notice. The suspension applies only to immigrant visas and does not affect tourist or business travel.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt disclosed the development in a post on X, noting that Somalia, Russia, and Iran are among the countries impacted. She also shared a media report indicating that several nations with longstanding diplomatic ties to Washington are included, such as Brazil, Egypt, Ghana, and Thailand.
The decision comes amid heightened scrutiny of immigration under President Trump, who has repeatedly emphasized the need for stricter border controls and reduced permanent migration. The administration has also pledged to expand background checks, including the review of visa applicants’ social media activity.
US authorities revealed earlier this week that more than 100,000 visas have been revoked since President Trump returned to office, representing a record number within a one-year period. In addition, the Department of Homeland Security reported that over 605,000 individuals have been deported, while an estimated 2.5 million migrants departed the country voluntarily.
Although the suspension does not affect short-term travel, analysts say it could significantly impact families, skilled workers, and diversity visa applicants from the affected countries.
The State Department has not indicated how long the suspension will remain in effect, stating only that the policy will be reviewed as part of broader immigration and security assessments.
