US suspends immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 Countries, including Nepal

Summary:

The United States has suspended immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 countries, including Nepal, effective January 21, 2026. This suspension affects thousands of people planning to settle permanently in the US. The list covers countries from Latin America, the Caribbean, Balkans, South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The suspension applies only to immigrant visas and does not affect tourist, short-term, or business non-immigrant visas.

Applicants from the affected countries can still submit applications, but no approvals or issuances will be made during the suspension period. There is no set timeline for lifting this measure. The US State Department stated this move is part of a broader review to prevent immigrants who might rely on public welfare benefits.

Dual nationals can apply using passports from countries not on the suspension list. This decision follows previous strict immigration measures by the Trump administration, including travel bans and reduced refugee quotas. The suspension raises concerns about the US's long-term immigration policies.

Archive: https://archive.fo/1OEMF