Listen to this article
Estimated 2 minutes
The audio version of this article is generated by AI-based technology. Pronunciation errors may occur. We work with our partners to continually review and improve results.
The U.S. State Department announced Wednesday that it will suspend immigration visa processing for citizens of 75 countries whose nationals are likely to need public assistance while in the United States.
The State Department, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, said it had directed consular officials to halt immigrant visa applications from affected countries, consistent with a broader order issued in November that toughened rules for potential immigrants who could become “public charges” in the United States.
The suspension, which begins January 21, will not apply to applicants for nonimmigrant visas or temporary tourist or business visas.
“The Trump Administration is ending abuses of the U.S. immigration system by those who seek to extract wealth from the American people,” the department said in a statement.
“Processing of immigrant visas from these 75 countries will be suspended while the State Department reevaluates immigration processing procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who would benefit from public assistance and benefits.”
The list includes Russia, Iran and Afghanistan, as well as several countries in Africa, according to the State Department.
The Trump administration has already severely restricted immigrant and nonimmigrant visa processing for citizens of dozens of countries, including many in Africa.
US President Donald Trump has suspended the country’s support for 66 international organizations, including the UN treaty that establishes international climate negotiations, as the United States further withdraws from global cooperation.
