US Visa Ban Escalates With Indefinite Halt on Visa Processing for 75 Countries
The United States has announced an indefinite suspension of visa processing for applicants from 75 countries, including Pakistan. This measure will take effect on January 21, 2026 and will remain in place until further notice, as U.S. authorities review screening and vetting procedures for visa applicants.
Under the new policy, U.S. consular officers are instructed to refuse visa applications from affected countries while the review is ongoing. The suspension primarily targets immigrant visas, which are used for permanent residence, though details regarding non‑immigrant visas, such as tourist or business visas, are yet to be fully clarified.
Officials have stated that this move is part of a broader enforcement of the “public charge” rule, aimed at denying visas to individuals judged likely to rely on public benefits in the U.S. The reassessment is intended to tighten immigration screening standards.
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Countries on the affected list include Somalia, Russia, Afghanistan, Brazil, Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Nigeria, Thailand, Yemen, and Pakistan. The suspension has raised concerns among travelers, migrants, students, and families planning to relocate to the U.S., as it could significantly disrupt long-term travel and immigration plans.
