The Trump administration is imposing an indefinite pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, sharply curtailing legal entry pathways to the US.
The State Department announced the move Wednesday, framing it as an effort to “bring an end to the abuse” of the US immigration system by those who might rely on welfare and public benefits at taxpayers’ expense.
President Trump, back in office, has aggressively targeted both illegal and legal immigration. This follows recent halts on immigrant visas for nationals of Brazil, Iran, Russia, and Somalia. The new order takes effect January 21, though the full list of affected countries remains unreleased.
“The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people,” said Tommy Pigott, principal deputy spokesperson for the department.
Led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the agency will suspend processing while reassessing procedures “to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who would take welfare and public benefits,” Pigott added.
Associated Press reporting confirms that consular officers have been directed to halt immigrant visa applications from these countries. The suspension spares non-immigrant visas, such as those for tourists or business travelers.
This escalates recent measures against nations Trump views as national security risks, including Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, and several African countries. In November, after an Afghan immigrant was charged in the shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, DC, the administration banned or limited entries from 19 countries.
Story by: Emmanuel Asiedu Agyare (Onokwafo Yaw Asiedu)/ Ahotoronline.com I Ghana
@onokwafoasiedu