Overview
- The policy, announced January 14 and effective January 21, halts final issuance of immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries while allowing filings and interviews to continue.
- KFF estimates that foreign-born workers from 69 of the listed countries account for about 8% of the U.S. health care workforce, warning the pause could worsen existing shortages.
- Legal guidance reported by JD Supra says consular officers will not issue immigrant visas during the pause and may refuse visas already approved but not yet printed, creating new hurdles at the final step.
- Nonimmigrant categories such as student, tourist, and temporary work visas are not affected, and individuals eligible to adjust status inside the United States may continue with USCIS processes.
- The State Department cites public-charge concerns but has not explained how countries were selected, and reporting from India shows applicants in non-listed nations are reassessing plans given perceived policy volatility.