Alert: Temporary Pause On Certain Immigrant Visas Pending Public Charge Review

The U.S. Department of State has announced a temporary pause on the issuance of immigrant visas (green cards from overseas) for nationals of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026. The stated justification for this pause is for the government to review how immigrant visa applicants are evaluated under the "public charge" rules.

What is the public charge ground of inadmissibility?

The public charge ground of inadmissibility requires a consular officer or USCIS to determine whether an applicant is likely to become primarily dependent on the U.S. government for subsistence. It is most relevant in family-based immigrant visas and some employment-based cases where an affidavit of support is required, and under current regulations, the applicant is generally assessed based on their age, health, income/assets, education/skills, and whether they have a financial sponsor to provide support in the United States. In announcing this review, the government has indicated it