WASHINGTON, D.C.: In a sweeping action initiated by the Trump administration, the U.S. State Department will halt all visa processing for travelers from 75 countries, including Russia, Iran, and Somalia, beginning January 21. This development was reported by Fox News based on a memo from the State Department which outlines the drastic measure as part of ongoing immigration enforcement efforts.

The list of affected nations includes not only those facing political challenges, like Afghanistan and Iran, but also countries with established travel ties to the U.S., such as Brazil and Thailand. Under this suspension, consular officials are instructed to deny all visa applications until the current screening and vetting processes are thoroughly re-evaluated. No set timeline for when processing could resume has been provided.

This action marks a significant escalation in the immigration policies of the Trump administration, which has increasingly emphasized border security and has undertaken extensive reviews of immigration measures since Donald Trump took office. In a related statement, State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott asserted, “The State Department will exercise its authority to deny entry to potential immigrants who may pose a public charge.”

The announcement follows Trump’s controversial pledge to “permanently pause” immigration from all so-called “Third World Countries,” a measure advanced in response to rising national security concerns. This decision arrives on the heels of a tragic incident near the White House that involved an Afghan national.

With many regions now under scrutiny, this substantial visa processing halt is expected to have significant implications for international visitors, students, and professionals seeking opportunities in the U.S. The move poses further questions about the future of U.S. immigration policy, particularly as it pertains to diversity in the workforce and the role of international collaboration moving forward.