Published: 28.08.2026
As of August 21, 2026, the pause on issuing immigrant visas to nationals of 75 countries is no longer in effect pursuant to a court order. Applicants may submit applications and attend interviews; tourist visas were not affected by the pause.
According to the source, ending the pause restores the ability of nationals of the affected countries to pursue immigrant visas, including family-based and other permanent pathways. This removes a broad suspension of processing, while financial self-sufficiency and potential reliance on public benefits remain part of the review. The development primarily affects people planning permanent relocation, not tourists. Applicants from the listed countries should pay close attention because the change directly affects access to interviews and further visa issuance.