US Lists Pakistan Among 75 Visa Pause Countries

The United States has included Pakistan in a list of 75 countries facing a suspension of visa processing, according to a statement from the State Department.

The pause, announced on Wednesday, is set to take effect from January 21, with no timeframe provided for when processing may resume.

A memo cited in the report directs US embassies to refuse visas under existing law while the State Department reassesses its immigration procedures.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared the report on her X account, confirming the administration’s decision.

Other countries included on the list are Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria and Thailand, according to the report.

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US officials said the move is part of President Donald Trump’s “America First” approach to immigration policy.

A State Department spokesperson said the department would use its authority to deem ineligible those potential immigrants who could become a public charge.

Immigration from the listed countries, including Pakistan, will remain paused during the review of procedures aimed at preventing misuse of public welfare benefits.

The reported decision follows broader immigration measures pursued by the Trump administration since taking office last January.