Trump Administration Halts Immigration Visas from 75 Countries, Tightens Entry Rules Amid Concerns Over Public Benefits Abuse

The US government has indefinitely suspended immigration visa processing from 75 countries, further tightening legal entry into the United States. The Department of State said the move targets migrants who rely on public benefits and welfare, describing such use as an abuse of the system.

Somalia, Haiti, Iran, and Eritrea are among the nations impacted. In a statement on X on Wednesday, January 14, the State Department said the freeze will continue until officials can ensure new immigrants will not exploit American generosity. “We are working to ensure the generosity of the American people will no longer be abused. The Trump Administration will always put America first,” the statement read.

The suspension affects only immigrant visas. Business, tourist, and other temporary non-immigrant visas will continue to be processed. Consular officials have been instructed to halt applications from the targeted countries while reviewing current protocols. The full list of 75 countries has not yet been released. The order takes effect on January 21, according to the BBC.

Since taking office for a second term, President Donald Trump has restricted both legal and illegal entry. The administration previously stopped issuing visas to Brazil and Russia and limited immigration from 19 nations over security concerns.“The US under Trump 2.0 is seeking to throttle inward immigration. The more coercive approach is working,” he said.

In related news, the Department of Homeland Security announced the end of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somali nationals. Secretary Kristi Noem said the move follows Trump’s criticism of Somali immigrants. Somali nationals with TPS must leave the US by Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

The Trump administration has made it clear that immigration policy will prioritize Americans first. Analysts say these moves aim to tighten national security, reduce dependency on public welfare, and control the flow of new immigrants.