In a significant move, the United States has announced a temporary suspension of all visa processing for citizens of 75 countries.
This decision, aimed at “stricter scrutiny of applicants,” will take effect from January 21 and will remain in place until further notice.
According to a memorandum from the US State Department, officials are required to deny visas as per current laws
and re-examine the methods used for screening and evaluating applicants. The list includes major countries such as Russia and Brazil.
Countries Affected and Purpose of the Ban
Among the 75 countries, Pakistan and Bangladesh are also included. Other countries on the list, according to Fox News, include Nepal, Thailand, Somalia, Iran, Afghanistan, Nigeria, Iraq, Egypt, and Yemen.
The main goal of this decision is to prevent entry of individuals who are less likely to be self-reliant and more likely to depend on government assistance.
The US administration stated, “We are working to ensure that the generosity of the American people is no longer abused. The Trump Administration will always put America first.”
The ban will stay in effect until authorities are confident that new immigrants will not exploit US resources.
Focus on Fraud and Stricter Screening
Authorities in Minnesota are closely monitoring Somali citizens after a major fraud case in the state. Widespread fraud was detected in several taxpayer-funded programs, with many of the individuals involved being Somali citizens or Somali-Americans.
This visa suspension also affects countries such as Haiti, Iran, and Eritrea, whose immigrants are seen as potentially burdensome to government support systems.
Reports suggest that visa applicants may face denial if they are overage, overweight, or have previously received government cash assistance.
