Two Separate Immigration Pauses Are Now in Effect: What You Need to Know

If you or a family member has an immigrant visa case pending, you may have heard about recent actions by the Trump administration affecting visa processing and entry into the United States. What many people do not realize is that there are currently two distinct restrictions in effect, and confusing them could lead to costly mistakes in how you handle your case. Discuss the potential implications on your status with a South Florida immigration lawyer right away.

Presidential Proclamation 10998: The Entry and Visa Suspension

The first restriction, Presidential Proclamation 10998, took effect on January 1, 2026, and focuses primarily on national security. It fully or partially suspended visa issuance and entry for nationals of 39 countries, with 19 countries facing a full suspension and 20 facing a partial one. Individuals traveling on documents issued or endorsed by the Palestinian Authority are also affected.

The 19 countries subject to a full suspension of all non-immigrant and immigrant visas include Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Haiti, and others. The 19 countries facing a partial suspension (affecting B-1/B-2 visitor visas, F/M/J student and exchange visas, and all immigrant visas) include Nigeria, Cuba, Venezuela, Senegal, and others. Turkmenistan faces a separate partial suspension limited to immigrant visas.

Critically, PP 10998 applies only to foreign nationals who were outside the United States on January 1, 2026, and did not hold a valid visa as of that date. No visas issued before January 1, 2026, have been or should be revoked under this proclamation. Limited exceptions apply to certain diplomatic visas, Special Immigrant Visas for U.S. government employees, Lawful Permanent Residents, dual nationals applying with a non-suspended passport, and participants in major sporting events. The prior exceptions for immediate family immigrant visas and Afghan Special Immigrant Visas under PP 10949 are no longer available.

The 75-Country Immigrant Visa Pause is a Separate Action.

The second restriction is entirely separate and was implemented on January 21, 2026. Rather than a national security measure, this pause is allegedly rooted in public charge and self-sufficiency concerns. The Department of State announced a pause on all immigrant visa issuances for nationals of 75 countries. At the same time, it conducts a full review of screening and vetting policies to assess the risk of reliance on public benefits.

The list of 75 affected countries is significantly broader than PP 10998’s list. It includes countries not covered by the entry suspension, such as Brazil, Colombia, Egypt, Jamaica, Morocco, Pakistan, Russia, Thailand, and many others.

This pause applies specifically to immigrant visas (green card-based visas). Tourist visas and other nonimmigrant visas are not affected. Applicants from affected countries may still submit applications and attend interviews, but visa issuance is paused pending the review. Dual nationals who can apply on a passport from a country not on the list are exempt, and adoption cases may qualify for a National Interest Exception.

Understand the Distinction with an Immigration Attorney

If your case is affected by either or both of these actions, the situation is evolving and complicated. Our immigration lawyers at Robert M. Bell, PA, are monitoring these developments closely and are available to help you understand how they apply to your specific circumstances. Call us at (954) 241-4209 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.