Immigrant Visa Processing Paused for 75 Countries: What It Means and How to Prepare (2026)

The U.S. State Department announced a pause on immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026. Non-immigrant visas (tourist/business) are not covered by this pause. The action is framed as a review tied to “public charge” concerns and broader immigration enforcement priorities. For families in the pipeline—or planning to begin—understanding what’s affected and how to adapt is critical.