WASHINGTON: The United States has announced the suspension of immigrant visa processing for Pakistan and 74 other countries, effective January 21, citing concerns that immigrants from these nations may rely on public welfare programmes.
In a statement, the US State Department said the suspension will remain in force until authorities are satisfied that new immigrants will not become a burden on American taxpayers. Officials described the move as part of the administration’s broader “America First” policy framework.
“We are working to ensure the generosity of the American people will no longer be abused,” a US official said.
State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott stated that the department would exercise its long-standing authority to deem ineligible those potential immigrants who are likely to become a “public charge” in the United States. “Immigration from these 75 countries will be paused while the State Department reassesses immigration processing procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who would take welfare and public benefits,” he added.
The countries affected by the suspension include Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Somalia, Haiti, and Eritrea, spanning regions across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. The freeze applies to all categories of US immigrant visas, including family-based, employment-based, and diversity visas.
The decision is expected to disrupt travel, employment, and settlement plans for thousands of Pakistanis who apply for US immigrant visas each year. Pakistani diplomatic missions in the United States are expected to issue guidance to affected applicants in the coming days.
US officials linked the move to the public-charge rule, which assesses whether immigrants are likely to depend on government assistance. While visa service suspensions have occurred previously, officials said the scale and scope of this action are unprecedented.
No timeline has been announced for the resumption of visa processing. However, the State Department said affected countries would be informed once the review of immigration procedures is completed.
Story by Anwar Iqbal
