New Delhi: The United States has announced an indefinite freeze on immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, marking one of the most far-reaching immigration enforcement steps under the Trump administration. The decision, taken by the US State Department, will come into effect from January 21, as authorities undertake a comprehensive reassessment of screening and vetting procedures in response to ongoing concerns related to immigration enforcement and public welfare dependency.

According to officials familiar with the matter, consular officers worldwide have been instructed to suspend immigrant visa processing and refuse applications under existing law where applicable. The move focuses on stricter enforcement of the long-standing “public charge” provision of US immigration law, which allows authorities to deny visas to applicants considered likely to depend on public welfare benefits. Factors such as age, health, financial status, English proficiency, and the potential need for long-term medical care will play a significant role in decision-making.

The State Department said the pause will remain in place indefinitely until the reassessment of visa processing procedures is completed. Exceptions to the suspension are expected to be very limited and will be granted only after applicants clear public charge considerations. A State Department spokesperson stated that the measure is aimed at preventing the entry of foreign nationals who could exploit public benefit systems, while reaffirming that the public charge rule has existed for decades, with its enforcement varying across administrations.

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