USA Pauses Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries (2026 Update)
Breaking: USA paused green card processing for 75 countries starting January 21, 2026. Student visas unaffected. Full country list and what it means.
The USA has implemented a significant immigration policy change that affects 75 countries worldwide. If you're from one of these countries and planning to study in America, here's what you need to know about how this impacts your plans.
What Is the Immigrant Visa Processing Pause?#
Effective January 21, 2026, the Department of State paused all immigrant visa issuances for nationals from 75 specific countries. This is a major development that affects permanent residency applications, but there's important news for international students.
Key Points About the Pause#
- Only affects immigrant visas (green cards and permanent residency)
- Does not affect non-immigrant visas including student visas
- Applications can still be submitted and interviews scheduled
- No immigrant visas will be issued during the review period
Complete List of Affected Countries#
The 75 countries affected by this pause include:
A-B Countries:
- Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan
- Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil
C-E Countries:
- Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Colombia, Cuba
- Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica
- Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia
F-K Countries:
- Fiji
- The Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea
- Haiti
- Iran, Iraq
- Jamaica, Jordan
- Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyz Republic
L-N Countries:
- Laos, Lebanon, Liberia
- Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco
- Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Macedonia
P-Z Countries:
- Pakistan
- Republic of the Congo, Russia, Rwanda
- Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria
- Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia
- Uganda, Uruguay, Uzbekistan
- Yemen
How This Affects International Students#
Here's the crucial information for prospective international students: this pause does not affect student visas. You can still pursue your education in America even if you're from one of the affected countries.
What You Can Still Do#
- Apply for F-1 student visas
- Attend American universities
- Pursue scholarships and financial aid opportunities
- Apply to tuition-free universities
- Transfer between schools with proper documentation
Long-term Considerations#
While you can study in the USA, this pause means:
- You cannot apply for a green card during your studies
- Post-graduation immigration options may be limited
- You'll need to maintain valid student status throughout your program
Reason Behind the Policy Change#
The Department of State implemented this pause to conduct a full review of all policies, regulations, and guidance. The stated goal is ensuring that immigrants from these "high-risk countries" do not:
- Utilize welfare in the United States
- Become a public charge
This review period allows officials to reassess immigration policies and potentially implement new requirements or restrictions.
What Happens During the Review Process#
For Current Applicants#
- Applications continue to be accepted from affected countries
- Interviews will still be scheduled and conducted
- No visas will be issued until the review concludes
- Processing fees are still collected
Timeline Uncertainty#
The Department of State hasn't announced when this review will be completed or when immigrant visa processing might resume for these countries.
Alternative Pathways for International Students#
If you're from an affected country, focus on educational opportunities that don't require immigrant status:
Scholarship Opportunities#
Many American universities offer substantial financial aid to international students:
- Schools offering 100% scholarships
- Full funding options for bachelor's degrees
- Master's degree scholarships
Education Financing#
For students who need additional funding, options like MPOWER Financing provide loans to international students without requiring a U.S. cosigner.
Free Education Options#
Consider institutions like University of the People, which offers tuition-free degree programs to international students worldwide.
Planning Your Educational Journey#
Despite this immigration policy change, your educational dreams in America remain achievable. Here's how to proceed:
Immediate Steps#
- Focus on student visa applications rather than immigrant visas
- Research scholarship opportunities to reduce financial burden
- Apply to multiple universities to maximize your options
- Maintain strong academic records for competitive applications
Long-term Strategy#
- Complete your degree program successfully
- Build professional networks during your studies
- Consider Optional Practical Training (OPT) opportunities
- Monitor policy changes for future immigration options
Related Resources#
For more guidance on studying in America as an international student:
- 3 Golden Steps to Free College for International Students
- 10 Universities with Full Scholarships for Transfer Students
- Complete Guide to 100% Scholarships
- Free Universities Based on Income Thresholds
Get More Help#
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