Only Tourists Get In: US Immigrant Visa Paused for 75 Countries

The Trump administration has announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 countries. This represents one of the most drastic actions to date aimed at limiting legal immigration pathways to the US.

The move significantly expands existing restrictions and affects individuals seeking permanent residency through family-based or employment-based visas.

Scope and start date

The suspension is scheduled to take effect on January 21.

It does not apply to non-immigrant visas, including student, tourist, and business visas, which account for the majority of visa applications. As a result, short-term travel to the US remains permitted under current rules.

This aspect is critical, as demand for non-immigrant visas is expected to increase sharply in the coming years, driven in part by major global events. The US will host or co-host the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games, both of which are expected to generate a surge in international travel for tourism, business, and event-related purposes.

US expands travel-related controls

The visa suspension comes a week after the Trump administration expanded existing travel restrictions to 38 countries. As part of that change, the administration broadened its visa bond policy, adding 25 additional countries to the program.

Under the policy, certain B1 and B2 visitor visa applicants are required to post refundable bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, with the final amount determined during consular interviews. Officials argue the measure is intended to reduce visa overstays.

Photo by Maksym Ostrozhynskyy on Unsplash