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ARTICLE · 30 JANUARY 2026

United States Pauses Immigrant Visa Processing For 75 Countries: Key Impacts For Employers

Phelps Dunbar LLP
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The U.S. Department of State announced a significant policy change this month. Beginning Jan. 21, immigrant visa processing will be paused for individuals from 75 countries.

GlobalImmigration
Brandon Davis
Brandon Davis
Laura N. Buck
Laura N. Buck

The U.S. Department of State announced a significant policy change this month. Beginning Jan. 21, immigrant visa processing will be paused for individuals from 75 countries. This development directly impacts employers who rely on global talent pipelines and may affect workforce planning for those sponsoring employees for permanent residence.

What Does the Immigrant Visa "Processing Freeze" Mean?

This policy is not a border closure, and it does not impact all visa categories. Rather, it is a suspension of final issuance of immigrant visas at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad. While foreign nationals from the listed countries may still submit applications and, in many cases, attend interviews, consular officers are instructed not to issue immigrant visas during the pause.

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