Story perspectives

DHS Freezes Immigration Applications from 20 More Countries

1/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) paused immigration applications from 20 more countries, effective January 1, 2026, increasing the total to 39.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) states all pending visa, green card, citizenship, or asylum applications will be reviewed.
Exceptions include athletes competing in major events.
The pause is part of a broader effort to tighten immigration scrutiny after a security incident involving an Afghan national.

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Story summary

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) paused immigration applications from 20 more countries, effective January 1, 2026, increasing the total to 39.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) states all pending visa, green card, citizenship, or asylum applications will be reviewed.
Exceptions include athletes competing in major events.
The pause is part of a broader effort to tighten immigration scrutiny after a security incident involving an Afghan national.