Full Breakdown
U.S. Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries, Including Brazil
1/22/2026, 8:44:14 AM
Overview of the Visa Suspension
On January 21, 2026, the United States implemented a suspension of immigrant visa processing for nationals from 75 countries, including Brazil, Afghanistan, Iran, Russia, and Somalia. This action, part of President Donald Trump’s broader immigration policy, aims to prevent immigrants deemed likely to become a "public charge" from entering the country. The U.S. State Department has characterized this measure as essential for ensuring that new immigrants are financially self-sufficient and do not rely on government welfare programs.
Impact on Brazilian Applicants
The suspension has significant implications for Brazilian citizens seeking permanent residency in the U.S. In 2023, Brazil ranked tenth among countries with the highest number of approved immigration applications, with 28,050 Brazilians receiving permanent residency. However, the current suspension halts the processing of applications for family-based and employment-based immigrant visas, leaving many applicants in a state of uncertainty.
Rodrigo Perenha, a Brazilian fintech executive, expressed his frustration after his initial EB-2 NIW visa application was denied. He had been preparing to apply for a different visa when the suspension was announced. “The feeling is sadness for everything that was done and then, eventually, having it frozen without knowing what’s going to happen,” Perenha stated. Despite the setback, he remains hopeful about his application.
Perspectives from Immigration Experts
Pedro Zava, an immigration consultant, noted that many of his clients feel frustrated by the tightening immigration measures, stating, “We’re doing everything right, and they’re doing this to us.” This sentiment reflects a broader anxiety among those who have complied with legal immigration processes.
Conversely, some individuals, like Elcio Vieira, view the suspension positively, interpreting it as a necessary measure to filter applicants and prevent flaws in the immigration process. Vieira, who is also pursuing an EB-2 NIW visa, acknowledged the uncertainty but remains committed to his goal of relocating to the U.S., describing it as a “country of opportunities.”
Official Statements on the Suspension
The U.S. State Department has emphasized that the suspension is designed to ensure that immigrants from high-risk countries do not become a financial burden on American taxpayers. The department's statement indicated that the suspension would remain in effect until the U.S. can guarantee that new immigrants will not extract wealth from the American people.
While applicants from the affected countries can still submit applications and attend interviews, their cases will not progress to visa issuance. Existing visas remain valid, and limited exceptions may apply for dual nationals or those whose travel serves an "America First" national interest.
Conflicting Reports and Future Implications
The duration of the visa suspension remains unclear, raising concerns among immigration lawyers and businesses reliant on talent mobility. The lack of a specified end date suggests that the suspension could persist indefinitely, adding uncertainty to U.S. immigration policy amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
As the situation evolves, the implications of this suspension will continue to affect not only individual applicants but also businesses and multinational employers navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration law.
