The United States will suspend immigrant visa processing for citizens of Bangladesh starting Jan. 21 as part of a broader halt affecting 75 countries whose nationals the Donald Trump administration says are more likely to require public assistance.
The State Department said Wednesday that consular officers have been instructed to stop processing immigrant visas under a November directive that expands how officials determine whether an applicant may become a public charge.
Non-immigrant visas, including tourist and business travel, are not affected.
The administration said the pause will remain in place while immigration screening procedures are reassessed. The updated guidance directs officers to weigh factors such as age, health, finances, education, skills, prior use of public benefits and English proficiency.
Immigrant applicants already undergo medical exams and vaccination requirements.
Bangladesh is among nations across Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean included in the suspension.
Several other South Asian nations, including Pakistan, Bhutan, Burma, Afghanistan and Nepal, were also listed among the 75 countries affected by the suspension.