The United States has announced that it will temporarily stop processing immigrant visas for citizens of 75 countries, including Bangladesh, starting from January 21.
The decision was confirmed by the US State Department on Wednesday. It said American embassies and consulates have been instructed to pause immigrant visa applications from the listed countries due to concerns that some applicants may depend on public welfare after entering the US.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the move is part of stricter checks to ensure immigrants can support themselves financially. The policy is linked to broader immigration measures introduced under President Donald Trump, expanding earlier visa and travel limits that affected nearly 40 countries.
“The Trump administration is ending the misuse of America’s immigration system by people who may rely on public assistance,” the State Department said. Immigrant visa processing will remain suspended while rules and procedures are reviewed.
However, the suspension does not apply to non-immigrant visas, such as tourist, student, and business visas. These visas make up the majority of US visa applications.
US officials expect applications for temporary visas to increase in the coming years, especially ahead of major global events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games, both to be held in the United States.
At the same time, US embassies have been told to more carefully screen non-immigrant visa applicants. Officers will now closely examine applicants’ financial condition, health, education, job skills, family background, and English language ability.
Applicants who are suspected of possibly using public benefits may be asked to submit extra documents to prove they can pay for their own stay.
US officials said the measures are based on existing laws that require immigrants to show they will not depend on government support. However, experts warn that the stricter rules may make it harder for people from developing countries to obtain US visas.
The countries affected by the immigrant visa suspension include Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal, Nigeria, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Russia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Yemen, and many others across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
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