The recent announcement from the U.S. Department of State has created confusion and concern among immigrants and their families. Many people are asking the same questions: Does this affect my visa? Is my case denied? What should I do next?
It is important to note that this policy change is limited in scope and does not affect all immigration applications. Below, we explain what has changed, who may be impacted, which visas are affected, and which are not.
What Changed?
On January 14, 2026, the Department of State (DOS) announced a pause in the issuance of immigrant visas for nationals of the 75 countries (listed below), effective January 21, 2026.
The decision to pause the issuance of certain immigrant visas is tied to concerns raised by the Administration regarding the “public charge” rule, which evaluates whether an applicant is likely to rely on government assistance after immigrating to the United States.
It’s important to understand that this is a pause, not a cancellation of cases. This measure applies only to immigrant visas processed at U.S. consulates abroad, a process commonly referred to as consular processing, which typically leads to lawful permanent residence (a green card) after entry into the United States.
What Did Not Change?
Despite the announcement, several key aspects of the immigration process remain the same:
- Nonimmigrant visas (such as visitor, student, and temporary work visas) are not affected.
- Adjustment of status applications filed inside the United States are not affected at this time.
- Immigrant petitions will still be accepted but no new immigrant visas will be issued.
- Visa interviews at U.S. consulates will still take place, although visas may not be issued during the pause.
Understanding these distinctions is critical, and often where confusion arises.
What Happens To My Case?
If you are applying for an immigrant visa outside the United States, your case may continue to move forward procedurally, but the visa itself may not be issued until the pause is lifted. This does not mean your case has been denied; it means it is pending while the pause remains in effect.
Which Countries Are Affected?
Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Cameroon, Cabo Verde, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyz Republic, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, and Yemen.
Some individuals may still qualify for exceptions, including:
- Applicants with dual nationality using a passport from a non-listed country
- Rare cases involving U.S. national interest exemptions
Because eligibility can depend on individual circumstances, reviewing your case with an experienced immigration attorney is essential.
What Should You Do Next?
The most important step is not to assume the worst. Immigration policies can change quickly, and many cases continue moving forward despite temporary pauses. Before making any decisions:
- Understand which visa process applies to you
- Confirm whether your country of nationality is affected
- Speak with an immigration attorney who can assess your specific situation and advise on next steps
We understand how stressful immigration changes can feel, especially when your future or your family is at stake. Our team is committed to providing clear, trusted guidance and helping you navigate these developments with confidence. For guidance tailored to your case, call Hirsch Law Group at (815) 473-3672 or contact us online.