The United States has announced a significant policy shift, halting visa processing for applicants from 75 nations, including prominent countries like Russia, Iran, and Afghanistan. This sweeping restriction, set to commence on January 21, is primarily aimed at rigorously scrutinizing individuals who are deemed likely to become a 'public charge' and depend on American public benefits in the future. The US administration is committed to ensuring that individuals entering. The country don't become a burden on taxpayer-funded welfare programs.
Key Nations Affected by the Restrictions
The decision by the US is driven by an intensified focus on applicants who are. Considered to have a high probability of becoming a 'public charge' in the United States. Consular officers have been explicitly instructed to deny visas under immigration law to those applicants who are likely to rely on public assistance in the future. The underlying philosophy of this move is to prevent immigrants from exploiting the generosity of the American people. The State Department has clarified that it will work with its long-standing authority to disqualify immigrants who would. Become a public charge on the US and take advantage of the generosity of the American people. Immigration from these 75 countries will be paused until the Department can evaluate immigration processing procedures to prevent the entry of individuals who would avail themselves of welfare and public benefits.
The extensive list of affected countries includes Russia, Somalia, Afghanistan, Iraq, Egypt, Brazil, Iran, Nigeria, Thailand, and Yemen, among others. According to Fox News, citizens from these nations won't be granted US visas under the new directive. The prohibition is designed to prevent individuals from entering the country if they're. Perceived to have a higher likelihood of relying on government assistance rather than being self-sufficient. It's anticipated that these new restrictions imposed by the US could remain in effect until a new security framework is fully implemented and the Department completes its comprehensive evaluation of immigration processing procedures.
Heightened Scrutiny on Somalia
Reportedly, Somalia has come under heightened scrutiny from the US following a significant fraud case uncovered in Minneapolis. This particular case exposed widespread misuse of taxpayer-funded benefit programs, with many individuals involved being Somali citizens or Somali-Americans. This incident has prompted the US administration to adopt a more cautious approach towards applicants from Somalia, aiming to prevent similar instances of fraud and abuse of public benefits in the future. The administration has been keeping a close watch on Somali citizens since the major fraud came to light in Minnesota.
'Public Charge' Provision and New Screening Rules
In November 2025, a State Department cable dispatched to embassies worldwide directed consular officers to implement new screening rules under the 'public charge' provision of immigration law, while this guidance empowers consular officers to deny visas to applicants who are likely to become dependent on public benefits. Under these new regulations, visa applicants will be assessed on multiple criteria. These include the applicant's health, age, English proficiency, and even the potential need for long-term medical care, while reports indicate that applicants who are older or overweight may be explicitly denied US visas. Plus, individuals who have previously received government cash assistance may face significant difficulties in obtaining a US visa. This comprehensive screening process is meticulously designed to ensure that only individuals who can be self-sufficient and not burden American public resources are permitted entry into the United States.
Statement from the US State Department
The State Department, in its official statement, has justified this policy change as essential for safeguarding the interests of American taxpayers. The Department believes that immigrants should contribute to American society rather than rely on public assistance. This policy specifically targets individuals who intend to avail themselves of welfare and public. Benefits, ensuring that all individuals entering the US adhere to the country's laws and expectations. The halt will persist until the Department thoroughly evaluates immigration processing procedures and establishes a strong security system capable of preventing the entry of individuals who would seek welfare and public benefits. This represents a significant step, signaling a notable shift in US immigration policies, with direct implications for citizens of these 75 nations.
