WASHINGTON, United States (AFP) — The United States has announced a temporary suspension of immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, including Jamaica, in a major shift that could affect thousands of visa applicants.
The move forms part of a renewed immigration crackdown under President Donald Trump, with US authorities saying the pause will allow for a reassessment of immigration screening procedures. According to officials, the suspension is aimed at preventing the entry of individuals deemed likely to rely on public assistance once admitted to the country.
A spokesperson for the United States Department of State said the administration is seeking to curb what it describes as abuse of the US immigration system. “This action is intended to protect American taxpayers and ensure the integrity of our immigration process,” the spokesperson noted.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the suspension applies to a wide range of countries across the Caribbean, Africa, Europe, Asia and Latin America. In addition to Jamaica, affected nations reportedly include Brazil, Egypt, Haiti, Nigeria, Russia, Iran and several Eastern European and African states.
While the State Department has not officially published a full list, US media reports indicate that more than 70 countries are included in the pause. Immigrant visa applications from these nations will remain on hold while US authorities review existing policies and procedures.
The announcement has sparked concern among prospective Jamaican migrants, many of whom have been awaiting interviews or final decisions on family-based and employment-based immigrant visas.
US officials have stressed, however, that the suspension does not affect non-immigrant visas such as tourist, business or student visas. Travel related to major international events, including this year’s World Cup, will also continue, though applicants may face stricter background and social media checks.
The State Department recently disclosed that over 100,000 visas have been revoked since President Trump returned to office, while the Department of Homeland Security reported that more than 600,000 people have been deported in recent months.
For now, Jamaican immigrant visa applicants are being advised to monitor official US embassy updates as the situation continues to evolve.
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