US Green Card Freeze for 75 Countries in 2026: What You Need to Know

In a major shift to U.S. immigration policy, the U.S. State Department has announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026. This move impacts thousands of families, professionals, and applicants worldwide, raising urgent questions about future prospects for green cards, visa processing, and national security. If you’re an immigrant applicant, employer, or advocate, understanding this development is crucial. Here’s everything you need to know about this significant policy change, its implications, and what steps you can take.

Why Has the US Suspended Green Card Processing for 75 Countries?

This sweeping freeze is part of a broader effort by the Biden administration to reassess security screening and immigration procedures, rooted in policies initiated during the Trump administration. The suspension aims to enhance vetting for public charge risks and bolster national security. It builds on Presidential Proclamations such as Proclamations 10949 (June 2025) and 10998 (December 2025), which expanded travel bans from 19 to over 39 countries, including Afghanistan, Iran, Somalia, and Nigeria.

Which Countries Are Affected?

The ban impacts nationals from 75 countries categorized as high-risk, with some notable examples including:

• Afghanistan
• Iran
• Somalia
• Yemen
• Nigeria
• Angola
• Senegal
• Tanzania
• Zimbabwe

For detailed country-specific updates, visit VisaHQ or CitizenPath.

What Does the Freeze Include?

The suspension affects multiple categories of immigration processing:

• Green cards (permanent residency), including family- and employment-based visas
• Asylum applications
• N-400 naturalization cases
• I-485 adjustments
• H-1B visa petitions (I-129/I-140)
• EAD applications (I-765)
• Status change requests (I-539)

The policies signal a re-review of cases dating from 2021 onward, incorporating new biometrics and social media vetting procedures to identify risks like identity fraud and visa overstays.

Exceptions and Special Cases

While the freeze is broad, some limited exceptions are permitted, including:

• Close family members of U.S. citizens and residents
• Humanitarian cases
• Diplomats and international representatives
• Athletes with special visas

Also, embassies are instructed to issue 221(g) refusals or reschedule appointments if appropriate, reflecting ongoing processing disruptions.

Impacts of the Policy on Immigrants and Employers

For Immigrants and Families

Many individuals and families face indefinite delays or outright bans on reunification, causing emotional distress and uncertainty. The backlog of 11 million pending applications is expected to grow, further complicating plans for settlement or family reunification.

For Employers and the Tech/Healthcare Sectors

U.S. companies relying on high-skilled foreign talent face hiring challenges, particularly in tech, healthcare, and academia. The freeze hampers talent pipelines and forces businesses to reconsider sponsorship strategies.

Related 2026 Immigration Reforms

In conjunction with the visa freeze, the Biden administration has announced several reforms, including:

• Shift to wage-based selection for H-1B visas
• Implementation of a $100,000 fee to fund security vetting
• Introduction of the $250 Visa Integrity Fee
• Creation of the Trump Gold Card offering $1 million for fast-track residency
• Shortening Employment Authorization Document (EAD) durations to 18 months
• Streamlined asylum processing within 60 days

These measures aim to prioritize wealthy and high-skill immigrants while addressing security concerns.

Legal Challenges and Future Outlook

The indefinite nature of the freeze has sparked expectations of litigation based on claims of discrimination and equal protection violations. The Biden administration may face challenges in justifying the policy on legal grounds, and court rulings could influence the policy’s duration or scope.

What Should Applicants Do Now?

1. Consult with immigration attorneys for personalized guidance.
2. Monitor official updates from the U.S. State Department.
3. Explore alternative pathways like the EB-5 investor visa or employer-sponsored visas with high-wage requirements.
4. Prepare for possible delays by gathering all documentation early and staying informed on policy changes.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• The U.S. has suspended green card processing for nationals of 75 countries starting January 2026.
• This move is part of broader security and immigration policy reforms.
• It affects multiple categories, including family, employment, and asylum cases, with some exceptions.
• Impacts include increased backlogs, delays, and legal challenges.
• Applicants should stay updated and seek expert guidance to navigate the evolving landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long will the US green card freeze last?

The freeze is indefinite, with no specific end date announced. It could last several months or longer, depending on policy developments and legal outcomes.

2. Can I still apply for a visa from a designated country?

Limited exceptions are available for certain cases, but generally, new applications are paused. Existing cases may be processed if they meet specific criteria.

3. Will the US re-open visa processing for the affected countries?

It’s uncertain. Future policy changes, legal rulings, or national security considerations will influence whether and when processing resumes.

4. What are the best alternatives for high-skilled foreign workers?

High-wage-based H-1B visas, investor programs like EB-5, or other specialized visas may serve as alternative pathways. Consult with an immigration expert for tailored options.

5. How can applicants prepare for potential delays?

Early documentation, staying informed through official channels, and working closely with legal counsel are key strategies to mitigate the impact of delays.

Conclusion

The indefinite suspension of US green card processing for nationals of 75 countries marks a significant shift in immigration policy aimed at tightening national security and prioritizing high-value immigrants. While this development introduces uncertainty and backlog challenges, proactive planning and expert guidance can help applicants navigate the evolving landscape. Stay vigilant, informed, and prepared to adapt your immigration strategies accordingly.

For further updates and detailed guidance, regularly check official sources like Travel.State.Gov. Remember, immigration policies are dynamic, and staying informed is your best asset in this changing environment.