Immigrant Visa Processing Update: Department of State Pauses Issuance for ‘High-Risk’ Nationalities

The Department of State recently announced a temporary pause on the issuance of immigrant visas to nationals of specified “high-risk” countries, effective January 21, 2026. The administration calls the measure part of a broader policy review aimed at ensuring that immigrants are financially self-sufficient and do not access welfare benefits in the United States. Scope of the Pause The pause applies to immigrant visa applicants who are nationals of a comprehensive list of countries identified by the administration as high risk for public benefits usage.