The USA will suspend visa issuance for citizens of 75 countries

The U.S. State Department has announced a temporary suspension of visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, reports Fox News. According to the document reviewed by the channel, the cessation of issuing "all visas" will take effect on January 21.

According to the channel, this decision will remain in place until the State Department conducts a review of the visa process.

The reason for this step, as reported by Fox News, is the department's desire to "combat applicants" who may become "a burden on the state." The list of these countries includes Somalia, Russia, Afghanistan, Brazil, Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Nigeria, Thailand, Yemen, and many others. It is currently unclear whether Kyrgyzstan is included in this list.

The channel also reports that in November 2025, the State Department sent a telegram to consulates around the world instructing them to apply new rules for screening visa applicants. The document mentions the principle of public charge in U.S. immigration law.

According to this principle, consular officials must deny visa applications from those who, in their opinion, may rely on receiving social benefits in the U.S. The assessment criteria include health, age, English language proficiency, financial situation, and potential need for long-term medical care. However, Fox News does not specify which types of visas are being referred to.

Additionally, Fox News quotes State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott, who stated that the department intends to use its authority to identify potential immigrants "who may become a burden on the U.S. and take advantage of the benefits of the American people."

“Immigration from these 75 countries will be temporarily halted while the State Department reviews immigration control procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who are expecting social benefits and government assistance,” Pigott noted in an interview with Fox News.