The United States has announced a suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens of 26 African countries, along with several nations across Asia, Europe, North America, the Caribbean, South America, and Oceania.
The move, announced on Wednesday, is part of President Donald Trump’s latest immigration restrictions affecting foreigners seeking permanent residence in the United States.
A spokesperson for the US State Department confirmed that immigrant visa processing has been paused for a total of 75 countries. According to the department, the suspension will take effect on January 21 and will remain indefinite while consular officers review how visa applicants are assessed.
US officials said the review aims to determine whether applicants are likely to become overly dependent on US public welfare systems.
The African nations impacted include:
Algeria, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia, and Uganda.
Global Impact
In total, the suspension affects:
- 26 countries in Africa
- 23 countries in Asia
- 8 countries in Europe
- 13 countries in North America and the Caribbean
- 3 countries in South America
- 1 country in Oceania
US authorities stated that additional guidance will be issued to embassies and consulates worldwide as the review process continues.
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