The U.S. State Department has announced an indefinite pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals from 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026, to reassess protocols and prevent public charge reliance. Colombia is explicitly included among the affected nations, impacting family-based, employment, and other permanent residency applications. Importantly, this suspension targets only immigrant visas and spares nonimmigrant categories like B1/B2 tourist or business visas.
Policy Background
The Trump administration cites high welfare usage rates among immigrants from these countries as the rationale, directing consular officers to halt processing under public charge laws. This builds on prior directives tightening vetting for factors like health, finances, and benefit history. The pause remains in effect until reviews ensure no exploitation of U.S. resources.
Impact on Colombia
For Colombians, this halts immigrant visa interviews and approvals at U.S. embassies, affecting thousands seeking green cards. Expat communities and families with U.S. ties face delays, though prior approvals may proceed if finalized. Tourism to events like future World Cups remains unaffected via B1/B2 visas.
Full List of 75 Countries
Compiled from official memos and reports, the countries are:
Africa (27): Algeria, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Yemen.
Asia (22): Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Georgia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Syria, Thailand, Uzbekistan.
Europe (8): Albania, Belarus, Bosnia (and Herzegovina), Kosovo, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia.
North America & Caribbean (13): Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Cuba, Dominica, Grenada, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Nicaragua, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
South America (3): Brazil, Colombia, Uruguay.
Oceania (1): Fiji.
Next Steps for Applicants
Affected individuals should monitor State Department updates and consult immigration attorneys for case-specific advice. Exceptions are limited to cleared public charge cases. Nonimmigrant travel plans face no disruptions.
