WASHINGTON DC (Kashmir English): The U.S. Department of State has stopped processing specific immigrant visas because the United States government now handles public charge evaluation through permanent residence.
The Department has stopped processing immigrant visas for people from 75 countries, including Bangladesh, because of an official update that will begin on January 21 2026.
The government decided to implement the measure after processing data that revealed that people from these countries used public assistance programs at higher rates than other groups who entered the United States.
The suspension applies strictly to immigrant visas, which serve as permanent residency permits for foreign nationals who wish to establish permanent residency in the United States.
The Department confirmed that all non-immigrant visa categories which include tourist, business, and student visas, will keep processing applications according to their regular procedures.
The decision officials made demonstrates their commitment to enhancing immigration policies while ensuring that newcomers possess sufficient financial resources.
The authorities will maintain the pause until they complete their evaluation of immigration patterns and develop their immigration policies. The organization has not shared any information about when the suspension will end or what exceptions will be available.
