Story perspectives

U.S. Suspends Visas for 75 Countries, Disrupts Talent Flow

1/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. State Department suspends immigrant visas for 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026.
Brazilian companies face delays in EB-2/EB-3 and family cases, prompting HR to pursue L-1 blanket petitions or Canada/Mexico routes.
German firms sourcing talent from affected regions must extend timelines for U.S. green-card sponsorship, risking delays.
VisaHQ supports firms with real-time updates and alternative pathways.
The policy underscores fragility of South American talent pipelines amid U.S. changes.

History

Historical Context

The Immigration Act of 1990, signed by President George H. W. Bush on November 29, increased annual immigration limits to 700,000 and emphasized employment-based visas. This reform, which included provisions for family reunification and a diversity visa lottery, significantly shaped U.S. immigration policy, impacting countries like Brazil and altering workforce dynamics as companies seek alternative talent sources amid recent visa suspensions.

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Story summary

The U.S. State Department suspends immigrant visas for 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026.
Brazilian companies face delays in EB-2/EB-3 and family cases, prompting HR to pursue L-1 blanket petitions or Canada/Mexico routes.
German firms sourcing talent from affected regions must extend timelines for U.S. green-card sponsorship, risking delays.
VisaHQ supports firms with real-time updates and alternative pathways.
The policy underscores fragility of South American talent pipelines amid U.S. changes.

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