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Tengrinews.kz – Starting January 21, the U.S. Department of State will temporarily suspend the issuance of all visas for 75 countries, according to Fox News.
The decision was made as part of efforts to combat applicants whom the authorities consider potential “public charges” for the state.
The American outlet refers to an internal document stating that the list includes countries such as Russia, Thailand, Egypt, Afghanistan, Brazil, Iraq, Iran, Yemen, Somalia and Nigeria. Which other countries are on the list is not yet known.
The suspension will remain in effect until a reassessment of visa issuance procedures is carried out.
Somalia under special scrutiny
Somalia has attracted particular attention from federal authorities. A fraud scandal in Minnesota revealed large-scale abuse of welfare programs funded by taxpayers. Many of those involved turned out to be Somali citizens or Somali-Americans.
What is a “public charge”
In November 2025, the State Department sent a circular to diplomatic missions introducing new rules for screening applicants under the “public charge” provision.
Consular officers will now take into account a wide range of factors: health, age, English proficiency, financial situation and potential need for long-term medical care. Visas may be denied to elderly people, those with excess weight, as well as individuals who previously received cash assistance from the state or were in state institutions.
State Department comments
“The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people,” said State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott.
He stressed that exemptions will be very limited and only possible after screening for “public charge” risks.
History of the law
The “public charge” provision has existed for decades, but its practical application has varied under different administrations. Consular officers have historically had broad discretion.
In 2019, President Donald Trump expanded the definition of “public charge” to include more public benefits. This expansion was challenged in court, some rules were blocked, and then later reversed by the Biden administration.
