Executive Summary
The Trump administration has announced an indefinite pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals of approximately 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026. While the full list of countries has not yet been publicly released, confirmed examples include Brazil, Iran, Russia, and Somalia.
This policy primarily affects employment-based immigrant visas processed through U.S. consulates abroad. Although framed as a measure tied to “public charge” concerns, the practical impact is a significant disruption to global mobility planning, workforce onboarding, and long-term talent retention strategies for U.S. employers.
Companies with employees or candidates pursuing permanent residence through consular processing should anticipate delays, uncertainty, and potential need for alternative planning.
Key Policy Update
- The U.S. State Department will halt immigrant visa adjudications at consulates for nationals of designated countries.
- The pause is indefinite, with no stated timeline for review or resumption.
- The measure applies to immigrant visas only (green cards issued abroad), not adjustment of status applications filed within the United States.
- The administration cites enhanced enforcement of public charge standards as the rationale.
Impact on Corporate Immigration Programs
This development may affect employers in several ways:
- Delayed start dates for employees awaiting immigrant visa issuance abroad.
- Interrupted permanent residence sponsorships, even where cases are otherwise complete.
- Increased reliance on nonimmigrant visa extensions to maintain work authorization.
- Uncertainty in succession planning for key personnel located outside the U.S.
- Strain on global mobility timelines, particularly for multinational organizations.
Employers with affected employees or candidates should prepare for longer planning horizons and contingency strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does this affect employees already in the United States?
Generally, no. Employees eligible to file adjustment of status (Form I-485) within the U.S. are not directly subject to this consular processing pause. However, future travel or consular processing may raise concerns depending on nationality and case posture.
2. Are nonimmigrant visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1, etc.) affected?
At this time, the announcement is limited to immigrant visa processing. Nonimmigrant visas are not explicitly included, though employers should expect heightened scrutiny and possible delays at consulates.
3. What about employees who are documentarily qualified and awaiting interviews?
Based on current reporting, these cases may still be placed on hold if the applicant is a national of a designated country. No grandfathering provisions have been announced.
4. Is there an official list of the 75 countries?
Not yet. The State Department has confirmed that a list exists but has not publicly released it. We are monitoring closely for official guidance.
5. Can employers request exceptions or expedited processing?
At this stage, no formal exception process has been announced. Any discretionary relief would likely be limited and case-specific.
6. How long is the pause expected to last?
The administration has described the measure as indefinite, meaning it will remain in place until further notice.
7. What should employers do now?
Employers should:
- Identify affected employees and candidates;
- Review case strategy (consular processing vs. adjustment of status);
- Assess nonimmigrant status validity and extension options; and
- Coordinate with immigration counsel on risk mitigation and planning.
Next Steps and Ongoing Monitoring
This action is part of a broader immigration enforcement strategy that includes expanded travel restrictions, tightened public charge standards, and increased scrutiny of legal immigration pathways.
We will continue to monitor:
- Release of the official country list
- Any agency guidance or clarifications
- Potential legal challenges or policy revisions
Clients with pending or planned immigrant visa sponsorships are strongly encouraged to reach out to us promptly. This will help assess potential exposure and adjust workforce planning as necessary. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with you and providing effective solutions for every case.