Kathmandu, January 15
The United States has decided to suspend immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 countries, a move that will directly affect thousands of people planning to settle permanently in the US, including Nepali nationals.
The suspension will take effect from January 21 and covers countries across Latin America, the Caribbean, the Balkans, South Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Nepal has been included in the list, raising concerns among those seeking permanent residency in the US.
According to Al Jazeera, the decision does not apply to tourist, short-term, business or other non-immigrant visas. Applicants from affected countries may continue to submit immigrant visa applications, but no approvals or issuances will be granted during the suspension period. The US government has not set a timeline for lifting the measure.
The US State Department has instructed consular officials to halt decisions on immigrant visa applications from the listed countries. The department said the move follows a broader review aimed at preventing potential immigrants who may rely on public welfare benefits from entering the country.
Dual nationals will not be affected if they apply using a valid passport from a non-suspended country.
The decision comes amid a series of stricter immigration measures under the Trump administration, including travel bans, reduced refugee quotas and higher fees for skilled worker visas. Analysts say the suspension raises questions about the US approach to immigrants and long-term migration policy.
