U.S. Freezes Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries in Major Policy Escalation (Including Brazil, Russia & More)

The U.S. State Department has ordered a pause on immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, according to an internal memo first reported on January 14, 2026. The freeze is set to take effect on January 21, 2026, and applies to U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide.

The directive instructs consular officers to refuse immigrant visas under existing legal authority while the department reviews screening and vetting procedures. Officials say the move is part of a broader effort to strengthen immigration enforcement.

The policy relies heavily on the “public charge” provision of U.S. immigration law, which allows visa denials if applicants are deemed likely to rely on government assistance. Officers have been told to apply stricter scrutiny to health, age, finances, and English proficiency.

U.S. officials also cited national security concerns and gaps in vetting information from certain governments. The memo follows recent executive actions focused on preventing visa fraud and tightening background checks.

While some affected countries already faced travel restrictions, the reported inclusion of nations such as Brazil, Thailand, and Egypt has triggered concern among immigration advocates and foreign governments.

The visa freeze effectively blocks family-based immigration and new permanent residency applications from the listed countries. The State Department has not given a timeline for when the review will end, saying only that the suspension is indefinite.

Officials said existing visas issued before the effective date generally remain valid, unless separately revoked. Limited exemptions may apply for diplomats, special immigrant visas, and cases tied to U.S. national interests.

The State Department has not publicly released an official list, but multiple reports and prior proclamations form the basis of the 75-country total referenced in the memo.

Note: Reports indicate the 75-country figure includes these previously restricted nations plus additional countries undergoing expanded vetting review.