The U.S. Department of State announced that starting January 21, 2026, it will suspend immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 countries. This move aims to reassess screening and review procedures under existing immigration laws to prevent applicants who may become a 'public charge' from entering the country—those who might rely on government assistance for their livelihood. The suspension is indefinite, and consular officers have been instructed to deny visas based on factors such as applicants' health, age, financial resources, English proficiency, and history of using public benefits. This stems from recent fraud concerns, including a childcare fraud case in Minnesota involving Somali nationals, and aligns with broader immigration enforcement priorities from the Trump administration. Exceptions to the suspension are limited and will only be approved after passing a public charge assessment, such as certain humanitarian cases or applicants who can prove self-sufficiency. This policy is separate from but complementary to other recent actions. @bitget VIP, lower fees, bigger perks