The US State Department to Suspend Visa Processing for Citizens of 75 Countries

The State Department is pausing visa processing for applicants from 75 countries as it reviews how consular officers screen people deemed likely to become a public charge. According to reports dated January 14, embassies and consulates have been instructed to prepare for a suspension to begin on January 21.

Initial coverage named Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria, and Thailand among the countries impacted. Applicants with appointments on or after January 21 in the listed countries should prepare for interview cancellations, rescheduling, or delayed issuance.