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| US Immigrant Visa Suspension Update |
The United States has decided to suspend immigrant visa processing for citizens of Bangladesh and 74 other countries. The decision was confirmed on Wednesday by a spokesperson of the US Department of State. The suspension is expected to take effect from January 21, according to media reports.
Core Facts
Washington’s decision to halt immigrant visa processing affects nationals from 75 countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. A spokesperson of the US Department of State, Tommy Pigott, confirmed the move in an official statement, though he did not provide detailed procedural explanations.
According to a report by Reuters, the suspension is part of an ongoing review of US immigration procedures. A memo issued by the Department of State has instructed US embassies and consulates in the affected countries to temporarily reject immigrant visa applications while the review is underway. The memo does not specify how long the suspension will remain in place.
The countries affected include Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal, Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Nigeria, Russia, Haiti, Sudan, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, and several others across different regions. The decision applies strictly to immigrant visas. The US Department of State has clarified that non-immigrant visas, including visitor or tourist visas, will not be affected by this suspension.
The initial report about the visa suspension was published by US media outlet Fox News. Reuters later confirmed the information, citing official sources within the US administration.
Reactions and Official Views
In his statement, State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the decision is linked to concerns over “public charge” risks. He explained that the policy aims to prevent individuals who may become dependent on public welfare or government assistance from entering the United States under immigrant visa categories.
US officials have indicated that during the review period, visa officers may deny applications from individuals considered at higher risk of relying on public benefits. This may include elderly applicants, individuals with serious health conditions, or those who have previously received government cash assistance, based on available documentation and assessments.
Immigration analysts quoted by international media say the move reflects a stricter interpretation of existing US immigration rules rather than a completely new law. However, they also note that the wide scope of affected countries makes the decision significant and likely to impact thousands of prospective immigrants.
So far, no detailed country-specific guidance has been issued by the US Department of State. Officials have said that only very limited exceptions may be considered during the review process, and such approvals would be rare.
Background and Policy Context
The suspension comes amid a broader tightening of US immigration policy. Since assuming office, former President Donald Trump had taken a hardline stance on immigration, emphasizing national security and economic self-sufficiency of immigrants.
Following a deadly shooting incident involving an Afghan national near the White House in November, Trump reiterated his commitment to restricting immigration from what he described as “third-world countries.” While the current administration has not publicly linked the visa suspension to that specific incident, analysts believe the latest step is part of a longer policy trajectory focused on stricter immigration controls.
The concept of “public charge” has long been part of US immigration law. It allows authorities to deny entry to individuals deemed likely to depend on government assistance. However, its enforcement has varied across administrations. Previous versions of the policy faced legal challenges and criticism from human rights groups, who argued that it disproportionately affects applicants from developing countries.
For Bangladesh, the United States has remained an important destination for family-based immigration and diversity visa applicants. According to data from previous years, thousands of Bangladeshi nationals apply annually for immigrant visas through family reunification and employment-based categories.
Impact on Bangladesh and Other Countries
In Bangladesh, the news has caused concern among prospective immigrants and their families. Immigration consultants in Dhaka say many applicants are now uncertain about their application timelines and future plans.
A Dhaka-based immigration lawyer told local media that applicants who have already submitted documents or completed interviews may face indefinite delays. He advised applicants to follow official updates from the US Embassy in Dhaka and avoid relying on unofficial sources or rumors.
The US Embassy in Dhaka has not yet issued a separate public notice beyond the general guidance from Washington. However, officials are expected to update applicants through official embassy channels if further instructions are received.
Experts note that similar concerns are being raised in other affected countries, particularly those with large numbers of applicants under family-based immigration programs.
Future Outlook
The US Department of State has emphasized that the suspension is temporary and linked to an internal review process. However, the absence of a clear timeline has raised questions about how long the restrictions may last.
Immigration policy experts say the review could result in revised screening standards or additional documentation requirements once visa processing resumes. In some cases, it may also lead to permanent policy adjustments, depending on the findings of the review.
Applicants are advised to monitor official announcements from the US Department of State and relevant US embassies. Any changes to visa categories or eligibility criteria are expected to be communicated through official government channels.
CONCLUSION
The United States’ decision to suspend immigrant visa processing for citizens of Bangladesh and 74 other countries marks a significant development in global immigration policy. While US officials describe the move as a temporary measure during a policy review, its impact on thousands of applicants is immediate. Until clearer guidance is issued, uncertainty is likely to continue for those seeking permanent entry into the United States.
SOURCE REFERENCES
Reuters
Fox News
US Department of State
Prothom Alo
Bdnews24.com
DISCLAIMER
This article is written using information collected from reliable and trusted sources. The content is for informational purposes only.
FAQ
Which visa policies are expected to change in 2025?
US officials have not confirmed specific changes, but immigration screening rules may be revised after the review.
What are the immigrant visa rules in the US?
Immigrant visas are issued based on family ties, employment, or diversity programs, subject to eligibility and public charge assessments.
