The US has been suspending visa processing for citizens of 75 countries since January 21 and has already massively canceled over 100,000 visas for 2025. Find out who is at risk, the reasons for the decisions, and what applicants should do

The United States of America is tightening its immigration policy and temporarily suspending visa processing for citizens of 75 countries. The decision will come into effect on January 21 and will be in effect indefinitely until the US State Department completes a reassessment of the applicant screening procedures.

This article will tell you about the key changes in US immigration policy in recent days.

Planning to travel, study or work abroad? A Visit World immigration lawyer will help you assess the risks, prepare documents and avoid mistakes when applying for a visa.

Which countries have been placed under a visa pause?

It is previously known that the list of countries for which all visa procedures have been suspended includes Somalia, Russia, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Nigeria, Brazil, Thailand, and Yemen.

The full list will include 75 countries from different regions of the world, but it is currently unknown who exactly will be subject to restrictions.

Why is the US suspending the issuance of immigrant visas?

According to an internal State Department memo, consular offices have been instructed to temporarily deny visas in accordance with current law while a review of screening and security procedures is underway.

The main goal is to prevent the entry of individuals who could potentially become a “public charge,” that is, dependent on social benefits and public assistance in the United States.

Somalia is receiving special attention. The country has come under federal scrutiny after a large-scale investigation into fraud with state welfare programs in the state of Minnesota, which involved Somali citizens and Somali-Americans.

Strengthening checks under the principle of “public charge”

As early as November 2025, the US State Department sent new instructions to consulates on the application of the “public charge” provision of immigration law.

From now on, the following factors are taken into account when considering visa applications: the applicant's age, health, English language proficiency, financial situation, likelihood of need for long-term medical care, previous use of government financial assistance.

Applicants who are elderly, have serious medical risks, or have already received social benefits may be denied a visa.

According to State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott, the United States will use its legal powers to prevent abuse of the country's social system.

The United States canceled more than 100,000 visas during 2025: what happened in parallel?

Against the backdrop of the visa pause, it became known about another tough step: in less than a year, the United States canceled more than 100,000 previously issued visas.

According to official data: in total, more than 100,000 visas were canceled, about 8,000 student visas, as well as approximately 2,500 skilled and specialized worker visas.

These measures were part of the strengthening of immigration policy during the second presidential term of Donald Trump.

The main reasons for visa cancellation in the USA

According to the US Department of State, most revoked visas are related to:

- Visa violation (exceeding the authorized period of stay);

- Working without proper authorization;

- Criminal cases or arrests.

Among the most common violations: driving under the influence (DUI), assault and theft, fraud, child abuse, possession or distribution of drugs.

Who has been hit the hardest by the US visa cancellations?

Tourists and business travelers

The largest number of visa cancellations falls on the B1, B2 and B1/B2 categories. What previously could have resulted in a fine or warning now results in immediate visa cancellation.

International students

Nearly 8,000 student visas have been canceled, including nearly 500 for drug-related offenses. Even minor offenses can cost a student the right to study in the US.

Skilled workers

Holders of work visas, including H-1B, have also been subject to scrutiny. In many cases, visas have been canceled after entry into the US.

What does cancellation or pause in visa issuance in the US mean?

A canceled visa loses its validity immediately:

- it cannot be used to enter the US;

- staying in the country can lead to deportation procedures;

- information about the cancellation is stored in the immigration system for years and affects future applications.

What to do if your visa to the USA has been canceled?

1. Carefully read the official notification;

2. Contact an immigration lawyer;

3. Do not try to travel on a canceled visa;

4. Submit a new application only after the situation is fully resolved;

5. Be as honest as possible in future questionnaires.

The strengthening of US immigration policy, the suspension of visa issuance for citizens of 75 countries and the mass cancellation of already issued visas indicate a much stricter approach to checking foreigners. In the new conditions, any violations of visa rules or errors in documents can have serious consequences. That is why timely consultation with a migration lawyer is becoming a key step for those planning a trip, study or work in the USA.

Amid the suspension of visa issuance and mass cancellations of the USA, professional advice from a Visit World migration lawyer will help you find out your chances, prepare for inspections and act correctly in case of visa refusal or cancellation.

Don't risk a visa refusal or cancellation - seek advice from a Visit World migration lawyer now and get a personalized action plan for your situation!

Reminder! In 2025, the USA introduced a new Visa Bond program for citizens of countries with a high level of visa violations. We have already told you which countries are included in the Visa Bond program in the USA 2026, how the visa bond works, its cost, refund conditions and through which airports entry and exit are allowed.

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