Archive · 16 Jan 2026
US halts immigrant visas for Pakistanis
The US has decided to stop giving immigrant visas to people from 75 countries, including Pakistan.
This means that many Pakistanis who were planning to move to the US for work, study, or to live permanently will have to wait.
Pakistan hopes that this is just a temporary review and that the US will start giving visas again soon.
The US says this is to make sure that new immigrants do not put a financial strain on American taxpayers.
Pakistan also talked about the tensions between the US and Iran, saying they want peace and stability.
They also told India to stop blaming Pakistan and focus on their own problems.
Many Pakistanis are upset and feel that their efforts to be friendly with the US have not helped.
US halts immigrant visa processing for Pakistanis starting January 21, 2026.
Pakistan hopes for a quick resumption, viewing it as an internal US review.
No timeline given for resuming visa services.
Decision may delay travel, study, and work plans for thousands of Pakistanis.
Pakistan expresses support for peaceful resolution of US-Iran tensions.
- Who
- Pakistan and the US
- What
- Suspension of immigrant visa processing for Pakistanis
- When
- Announced on January 14, 2026, to start on January 21, 2026
- Where
- Pakistan and the US
- Why
- Part of US crackdown on foreigners likely to rely on public benefits
Pakistan's Perspective
US Administration's Perspective
Visa Suspension
Pakistan's Perspective
Pakistan views the suspension as an internal US review and hopes for a quick resumption, expressing support for a peaceful resolution of US-Iran tensions.
US Administration's Perspective
The Trump administration sees the move as targeting nations whose immigrants rely significantly on the country’s welfare systems, aiming to prevent financial strain on American taxpayers.
US-Pakistan Relations
Pakistan's Perspective
Pakistan sees itself as a close ally of the US, expecting favorable treatment and support.
US Administration's Perspective
The US views Pakistan as a country that has historically facilitated US interests, often in exchange for financial assistance, and sees the visa suspension as a continuation of this dynamic.
- Countries Affected
- 75 countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Russia, and Iran
- US Administration
- Trump administration
- Pakistan's Response
- Hopes for resumption, views as internal review
- Impact
- Delays travel, study, and work plans for Pakistanis
- Pakistan's Stance on Iran
- Supports peaceful resolution, stability in Iran
- Pakistan's Message to India
- Urges India to focus on internal extremism
- Visa Types Affected
- Immigrant visas for permanent relocation
- Visa Types Unaffected
- Tourist, business, and other short-term travel visas
Sources
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