The United States will suspend the processing of immigrant visas for citizens of 75 countries, including Bangladesh, beginning 21 January, as the Trump administration intensifies its immigration crackdown. The decision does not apply to non-immigrant or visitor visas.

A document from the US Department of State outlines the move, which was first reported by a US media outlet and later confirmed by officials. According to Fox News, the pause is part of a broader reassessment of immigration procedures aimed at tightening screening standards.

A State Department spokesperson told Reuters that the suspension will affect applicants from countries such as Somalia, Iran, Russia, Afghanistan, Nigeria, Yemen, Thailand and Brazil. The pause will remain in place while authorities review processes to prevent the admission of individuals deemed likely to rely on public assistance.

“The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States,” said Tommy Pigott, Principal Deputy Spokesperson at the State Department. He added that the review is intended to prevent the exploitation of US welfare and public benefit systems.

Since returning to office in January, President Donald Trump has pursued a sweeping overhaul of US immigration policy, prioritizing enforcement and tighter controls. His administration has deployed federal agents to major cities and expanded vetting measures, including stricter social media screening.

Critics argue the measures go beyond curbing illegal immigration and are restricting legal pathways as well. “This administration has proven itself to have the most anti-legal immigration agenda in American history,” said David Bier, Director of Immigration Studies at the Cato Institute. He warned the policy could block nearly half of all legal immigrants, affecting an estimated 315,000 people over the next year.

The State Department said earlier this week that more than 100,000 visas have been revoked since Trump took office. The administration has also increased fees for certain work visas, including H-1B permits for highly skilled professionals.

BOB Post