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Call Us Today

630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
info@kasturilaw.com

The U.S. Department of State announced an indefinite pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026. The decision represents one of the most significant changes to legal immigration policy in recent years and has immediate implications for people pursuing green cards through consular processing abroad.

What the Pause Really Means

This policy pauses the issuance of immigrant visas, the final approval step that allows a foreign national to enter the United States as a permanent resident.

Applicants from the affected countries may still:

  • File applications.
  • Attend scheduled consular interviews.
  • Have their cases processed up to the point of visa issuance.

However, no immigrant visas will be issued while the pause remains in effect.

The stated rationale behind the pause is tied to increased review of public charge standards and vetting procedures. Immigration authorities are reassessing how financial sponsorship and eligibility determinations are evaluated for nationals of countries identified as higher risk under current policy priorities.

Immigration Paused

Who is Affected and Who is Not?

The pause applies specifically to immigrant visas that lead to lawful permanent residence through consular processing abroad. It does not affect every immigration pathway.

The pause does not apply to:

  • Nonimmigrant visas, such as tourist, student, exchange visitor, or temporary work visas.
  • Immigrant visas issued before the effective date.
  • Certain applicants may qualify under narrow exceptions or alternative processing pathways.

Dual nationals may also be affected differently depending on which passport is used during processing.

How the Pause Impacts Applicants in Practice

Even when applications and interviews continue, the inability to issue visas creates real-world consequences for applicants and their families.

Applicants may experience:

  • Indefinite delays after completing interviews and submitting all required documents.
  • Uncertainty about travel timelines and relocation plans.
  • Delays in employment start dates for employment-based immigrant visa applicants.
  • Extended family separation for those pursuing family-based green cards.

Because the pause is not tied to a specific end date, applicants may remain in limbo until additional guidance or policy changes are announced.

Adjustment of Status Versus Consular Processing

The pause applies to immigrant visa issuance at U.S. consulates abroad. Individuals who are eligible to apply for adjustment of status from within the United States are not directly affected by this specific pause unless additional policy changes are announced.

For some applicants, this distinction may open alternative pathways, depending on their current location, visa status, and eligibility category. For others, consular processing remains the only available route.

What Applicants Should Do Now

Applicants impacted by the pause should avoid making assumptions or abandoning their cases prematurely. The best next steps depend on individual circumstances.

Practical considerations include:

  • Confirm whether the pause covers your visa category and processing method.
  • Monitoring official announcements for updates or clarifications.
  • Preparing financial and sponsorship documentation in anticipation of heightened review once processing resumes.
  • Exploring whether alternative immigration strategies may be available.

Because the policy environment is evolving, individualized guidance is often essential.

Get Guidance From Kasturi Law

If the pause on immigrant visa issuance has affected your plans or raised questions about your options, Kasturi Law can help you understand how this policy applies to your situation. Our Chicago immigration attorney, Shobhana Kasturi, advises individuals and families across Illinois on navigating policy changes, processing delays, and strategic immigration planning.

We represent clients throughout Illinois, including Arlington Heights, Aurora, Champaign, Naperville, Schaumburg, and surrounding cities. Consultations are available in person, by phone, or via Zoom, and you may schedule directly through our online calendar, choosing either a 30-minute or 60-minute consultation.

To discuss how this immigration pause may affect your case and what steps make sense moving forward, contact Kasturi Law to schedule a consultation that fits your needs.