# The US halts immigrant visa processing for Thailand

- Link: https://www.thailand-business-news.com/united-states/279540-us-stops-visa-processing-thailand
- Published: 2026-01-15T13:25:17+07:00
- Author: Angela Reyes

**The United States has announced a suspension on issuing immigrant visas for nationals
of Thailand, as part of a broader policy affecting 75 countries.**

This policy was announced by the U.S. Department of State on January 14, 2026, and
takes effect on **January 21, 2026**. It is described as an **indefinite pause**
while the department reassesses immigration screening and vetting procedures, specifically
to address concerns about applicants who may become a “public charge” (likely to
rely on public benefits or welfare in the U.S.).

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### Key Details

 * **Scope**: This applies **only to immigrant visas** (those leading to permanent
   residency/green cards, such as family-sponsored or employment-based). It does**
   not** affect nonimmigrant visas (e.g., tourist, business, student, or temporary
   visas).
 * **What happens during the pause**: Applicants from affected countries (including
   Thailand) can still submit applications and attend scheduled interviews, but **
   no immigrant visas will be issued** until the pause is lifted. There is no specified
   end date.
 * **Exceptions**: Dual nationals using a passport from a non-listed country may
   be exempt.
 * **Reason**: The administration cites the need to prevent immigrants from becoming
   reliant on U.S. public assistance, enforcing existing “public charge” rules more
   stringently.

Thailand is explicitly included in the official list of 75 affected countries, alongside
others such as Afghanistan, Brazil, Cambodia, China is **not** on the list (e.g.,
India is not affected), but many in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East,
and Eastern Europe are.

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This is part of the current administration’s broader immigration crackdown. For 
the most up-to-date official information, check the U.S. Department of State’s website(
travel.state.gov) or the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok’s visa page (th.usembassy.gov/visas).
If you’re an applicant, consult an immigration attorney for personalized advice,
as policies can evolve quickly.