Map shows 75 countries on US visa processing pause list

The Trump administration will stop issuing immigrant visas to people from 75 countries, the State Department announced Jan. 14, saying the immigrants "extract wealth" from American taxpayer money once they're inside the U.S.

Immigrant visas are travel documents issued to foreign nationals who want to live permanently in the U.S. They're given outside U.S. borders and allow the holder to enter the country legally.

Among the nations listed are Russia, Iran, Somalia, Haiti, and Cuba. The State Department made the announcement on social media but did not provide a full list. Inquiries were directed to FOX News coverage.

The decision is designed to pause the number of applicants who could become a "public charge," the State Department said. That's a term for those who depend on government benefits. Federal officials have said tougher enforcement could save taxpayers $9 billion annually.

Which 75 countries have visa processing paused?

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Since 1882, legal immigrants have had to meet public charge rules designed to ensure that they can support themselves via work, savings or a sponsor, without relying on programs like food stamps or welfare.

Starting in November 2025, the department told consular officers to review applicant health, age, English proficiency, finances and potential need for long-term medical care when considering visas, FOX reported.

The changes for the 75 nations will officially take effect Jan. 21. "The freeze will remain active until the U.S. can ensure that new immigrants will not extract wealth from the American people," the department said.

Contributing: Trevor Hughes and Dinah Voyles Pulver.

Sources: USA TODAY Network reporting and research; Migration Policy Institute