US Freezes Visa Processing for 75 Countries: Is India Affected?

US freezes visa processing: Is India in the list? Check the complete details

In a move that has sent ripples across the globe, the U.S. State Department has indefinitely suspended immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026. Citing the need to “reassess and strengthen visa security protocols,” the department confirmed the pause is part of a broader initiative to crack down on potential fraud and national security risks .

But amid growing anxiety among applicants worldwide, one question dominates online searches: Is India affected by the US visa freeze? The answer may offer relief to millions—but the implications for other nations are far more severe.

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What Is the US Visa Freeze?

The US visa freeze specifically targets *immigrant visas*—those intended for permanent residency (green cards)—not tourist, student, or work visas. This means individuals applying to live permanently in the United States from the listed countries will see their applications paused indefinitely, with no clear timeline for resumption .

Non-immigrant visa services (like B1/B2, F-1, or H-1B) remain operational, though processing times may be affected due to resource reallocation. The State Department emphasized this is a “procedural reassessment,” not a blanket travel ban.

Is India Included in the Visa Suspension List?

Good news for Indian applicants: **India is NOT on the list** of 75 countries affected by the US visa freeze. Despite being one of the largest sources of U.S. immigrants—particularly through employment-based green cards—India remains unaffected by this specific policy action .

This exclusion likely reflects strong bilateral cooperation on immigration vetting, robust data-sharing agreements, and India’s compliance with U.S. documentation standards. However, Indian applicants should still expect routine background checks and potential delays due to high application volumes.

Full List of Affected Countries

The 75 nations targeted by the freeze include several with long-standing visa compliance issues or limited diplomatic reciprocity with the U.S. Notable countries on the list are:

  • Pakistan
  • Russia
  • Iran
  • Iraq
  • Yemen
  • Somalia
  • Thailand
  • Venezuela
  • Eritrea
  • Myanmar

The complete list, published by the State Department, includes nations from Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Eastern Europe where the U.S. lacks reliable civil documentation systems or faces challenges in verifying applicant identities .

Why Did the US Impose This Halt?

According to official statements, the US visa freeze stems from concerns over:

  1. Document Fraud: Inability to verify birth certificates, police records, or marital status in certain countries.
  2. National Security Risks: Gaps in biometric data sharing and background screening.
  3. Reciprocity Issues: Some countries deny U.S. diplomats access to local records, hindering verification.

The policy aligns with Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which allows the U.S. to suspend visa issuance when adequate information cannot be obtained . It’s not unprecedented—similar pauses occurred in 2017 and 2021 under different administrations.

Impact on Applicants and Families

For families in affected countries, the freeze is devastating. Many have waited years—sometimes decades—for green card approval. Now, their dreams are on hold with no end in sight.

“I sold my home to pay for my son’s medical treatment in the U.S.,” said a Pakistani mother whose family-based petition was weeks from final approval. “Now we’re told to wait indefinitely.” Human rights groups warn the policy could strand vulnerable populations, including refugees and victims of domestic violence seeking safety.

What to Do If You’re From an Affected Country

If you’re from one of the 75 nations, consider these steps:

  • Check your case status regularly on the CEAC portal.
  • Consult an immigration attorney to explore alternative pathways (e.g., humanitarian parole).
  • Monitor official updates from the U.S. embassy in your country.
  • Do not submit new applications until the freeze is lifted—they will not be processed.

For more guidance on navigating U.S. immigration hurdles, see our resource hub on [INTERNAL_LINK:us-immigration-process-guide].

Conclusion

While the US visa freeze has created uncertainty for tens of thousands, Indian applicants can breathe easy—for now. The exclusion of India underscores the strength of its administrative systems and diplomatic ties with Washington. However, this policy serves as a stark reminder of how geopolitical dynamics directly impact individual lives. As the U.S. works to “modernize” its vetting infrastructure, transparency and clear communication will be key to maintaining trust with global applicants.

Sources

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