Washington. The US administration has ordered to stop the process of immigrant visa (permanent residence) for citizens of 75 countries indefinitely. The main reason behind this decision is said to be that some applicants may become a “public charge” and burden the country by taking advantage of US welfare schemes.
This decision will be effective from January 21. US consular officers have been instructed to suspend visa processing until the Department reevaluates the screening and verification process under current immigration law.
State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Piggott said, “This step has been taken to prevent abuse of the US immigration system. People who rely on welfare programs by taking advantage of the generosity of the American public will not be allowed to enter.”
According to sources, this decision will affect countries in Africa, Asia, Middle East, Caribbean, Europe and Latin America. The countries whose visas will be affected include Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Egypt, Thailand and Brazil.
The State Department said that only very limited exceptions will be valid during this moratorium and they will be considered only if the applicant clears all doubts related to the public charge.
Immigrant visas relate to family-based green cards, employment-based categories, and humanitarian protection. Non-immigrant visas, on the other hand, are temporary and include tourism, business, study, short-term employment, investment and diplomatic or media work.
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