The U.S. is suspending immigrant visas from 75 countries. Here's what it means for travelers

"Beginning on January 21, the U.S. will indefinitely suspend immigrant visa processing from 75 countries as part of the Trump administration's crackdown on immigration. While the suspension only applies to those visas needed for employment or to join family in the U.S.-and not student or tourist visas-it includes many beloved travel destinations for Americans. The countries selected-including the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Thailand-were deemed "high risk of public benefits usage" by the State Department, according to a statement on Wednesday."

""Under President Trump, we will not allow foreign nationals to abuse America's immigration system and exploit the generosity of the American people," Tommy Pigott, spokesperson for the State Department, posted on the X platform on Wednesday. This announcement follows one from last week, in which the U.S. added seven countries to a list of mostly African nations whose passport holders must post bonds of up to $15,000 to apply to enter the country."

Beginning January 21, the U.S. will indefinitely suspend immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries for employment or family reunification visas, while excluding student and tourist visas. The selected countries include popular destinations such as the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Thailand, and were deemed "high risk of public benefits usage" by the State Department. The ban takes effect next week and will remain until further notice. Officials stated that the policy aims to prevent abuse of the immigration system. The announcement follows a recent policy adding seven countries whose passport holders must post bonds of up to $15,000. Prior bans affected 40 countries, reducing legal immigration.

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