The U.S. Department of State has suspended the processing of immigration visas for citizens of 75 countries, including the Russian Federation. The decision will take effect on January 21 and will remain in force indefinitely. Fox News reports this here.
This specifically concerns immigration visas. Tourist and guest categories, according to media clarification, will likely continue to be issued in the usual manner. The information was obtained by journalists from a memo of the U.S. Department of State, which they reviewed.
U.S. Immigration Visas: Who is Affected by the Restrictions
A complete list of countries has not been officially disclosed, but it is known that among them are Somalia, Russia, Afghanistan, Brazil, Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Nigeria, Thailand, Yemen, and other countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the post-Soviet space.
In the memo, consular officers are advised to deny the issuance of immigration visas according to current legislation while a review of the applicant screening and selection procedures is ongoing. The reason cited is the risk that potential immigrants may become dependent on government assistance in the USA.
Processing Immigration Visas: New Evaluation Criteria
When making decisions, a wide range of factors will be taken into account, including:
- health status of the applicant;
- age;
- level of English proficiency;
- financial situation;
- potential need for long-term medical care.
A representative of the Department of State, Tommy Pigott, stated that the department would use its powers to deny eligibility to those potential immigrants who may become a financial burden on the country.
This decision has already caused a stir, as it affects citizens of dozens of countries and effectively freezes one of the key legal avenues for permanent immigration to the USA.
Recall that according to a USCIS announcement, starting October 16, 2025, a fee of $1,000 will be introduced for individuals who have received humanitarian permission to stay in the USA, known as parole.