US Suspends Visa Processing for 75 Nations, Including Somalia, Russia, Iran
The United States is suspending visa processing for 75 nations, including Somalia, Russia, and Iran. This decision, announced by the State Department, aims to tighten scrutiny of visa applicants who may become public charges.
Details of the Visa Suspension
The visa suspension will begin on January 21 and will last indefinitely. The State Department is reassessing its screening and vetting procedures during this period. The pause particularly reflects concerns regarding applicants who may rely on public benefits.
Countries Affected
- Somalia
- Russia
- Iran
- Afghanistan
- Brazil
- Iraq
- Egypt
- Nigeria
- Thailand
- Yemen
- And many more…
Public Charge Provisions
The suspension is based on the “public charge” rule, which assesses applicants’ likelihood of needing public assistance. Factors influencing this assessment include:
- Health status
- Age
- English proficiency
- Financial stability
- Potential for long-term medical care
Increased scrutiny follows a significant fraud scandal in Minnesota linked to Somali nationals. Authorities discovered extensive misuse of taxpayer-funded programs in the area.
Implications for Visa Applicants
Exceptions to the visa processing pause will be rare. Only applicants who meet the public charge requirements may still receive visas. The State Department maintains its authority to deny visas based on the potential for applicants to become public charges.
Historical Context
The public charge rule has been applied differently under various administrations. The Trump administration expanded its scope in 2019, while President Biden later rolled back some of these changes.
This suspension highlights ongoing concerns about immigration policy and its impact on welfare resources in the United States.
