"The visa ban took effect on January 21, 2026, and applies exclusively to individuals seeking to live and work permanently in the US. With this step, Washington wants to end the alleged "abuse of the immigration system by people who want to enrich themselves at the expense of the US." "President Trump has made it clear that immigrants must be financially independent and not be a financial burden on Americans,""
"The State Department is currently conducting a comprehensive review of all policies, regulations, and guidelines to ensure that immigrants from these high-risk countries do not claim social benefits in the United States and do not become dependent on government assistance," Assis said, adding that tourist visas are not affected. The duration of the suspension is unclear. But according to Assis, nationals of the affected countries can continue to submit their visa applications."
On January 21, 2026, the United States suspended processing of immigration visas for applicants from 75 countries. Approximately one-third of the affected countries are in Africa, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Ghana, Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, Gambia, Liberia, Togo, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Senegal. The suspension applies only to individuals seeking to live and work permanently in the United States; tourist and short-term visas remain unaffected. The State Department is conducting a comprehensive review of policies to prevent immigrants from claiming social benefits and becoming dependent on government assistance. Nationals of affected countries may still submit applications but will not receive immigration visas during the suspension period. The duration of the suspension is unclear.
#us-immigration-policy #visa-suspension-75-countries #african-countries-affected #public-benefits-restriction
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