| Office of International Students & Scholars

January 15, 2026 Suspension of Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries

Effective January 21, 2026

The U.S. Department of State (DoS) has announced an indefinite pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries. This affects individuals applying for visas leading to lawful permanent residence (green cards) at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.

December 16, 2025 Expanded Travel Restrictions Under New Presidential Proclamation

Effective January 1, 2026, On December 16, 2025, the White House issued a new procla

January 1, 2026 USCIS Policy Memorandum on Pending and Approved Immigration Benefits

(Originally December 3, 2025)

USCIS has issued an updated policy memoranda impacting individuals born in or nationals of high-risk countries designated under Presidential Proclamations 10949 and 10998, leading to processing holds, re-reviews of approved benefits, and a pause on asylum applications.