75 Country Visa Ban: What It Means for Your Immigration Plans

The countries identified under the January 2026 policy include Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, the Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Burma, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, The Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, the Kyrgyz Republic, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Pakistan, the Republic of the Congo, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, and Yemen.

The status of these restrictions may continue to change as litigation and government policies evolve. Individuals who may be affected should review the latest available information before making immigration or travel plans.

What Did the June 2026 Federal Court Ruling Change?

On June 5, 2026, Judge John J. McConnell Jr. of the United States District Court for the District of Rhode Island blocked several immigration policies that had suspended or delayed the processing of immigration benefits for nationals of 39 countries and Palestine.

The ruling requires USCIS to resume adjudicating affected applications, including certain requests for naturalization, green cards, work authorization, and asylum. The court concluded that USCIS lacked legal authority to indefinitely suspend these adjudications and found several of the challenged policies unlawful.

The decision restored processing for many immigration benefits that had been placed on hold. However, it did not directly address the separate State Department policy involving immigrant visa issuance for nationals of 75 countries.

Based on current guidance, nationals of affected countries may still be eligible to apply for temporary visa categories such as B-1/B-2 visitor visas, F-1 student visas, O-1 visas, and P-1 visas.

Individuals who received immigrant visas before the restrictions took effect, as well as certain dual nationals applying with a passport from a country not covered by the policy, may be treated differently under current guidance. Applicants should review the latest requirements before applying.

Are Exceptions Available Under the 75 Country Visa Ban?

Limited exceptions may be available depending on the applicant’s circumstances and the policies in effect at the time of review. Public guidance has identified certain exceptions for some dual nationals applying with a passport from a country not covered by the restrictions. Certain adoption-related cases and matters involving national interests may also qualify for special consideration.

The government may also make case-by-case determinations regarding whether an exception is appropriate. These decisions are discretionary, and approval is not guaranteed.

Even when restrictions apply, some individuals may still be able to continue portions of the immigration process or qualify for a limited exception.

Questions About the 75 Country Visa Ban?

Immigration policies can change quickly, and recent court decisions may affect how certain restrictions are applied. If you have questions about how the 75 Country Visa Ban could impact your immigration plans, Abdin Law can help you understand the current rules, potential exceptions, and the options that may be available based on your circumstances. Contact us to discuss your situation with an experienced immigration attorney. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens to My Immigrant Visa Interview Appointment?

Some affected applicants may still be able to submit applications and attend immigrant visa interviews. However, visa issuance may be delayed or restricted depending on the applicant’s circumstances and the policies in effect at the time a decision is made.

Are There Any Exceptions to the 75 Country Visa Ban?

Possibly. Certain dual nationals applying with a passport from a country not covered by the restrictions may qualify for different treatment. Some adoption-related cases and matters involving national interests may also be considered for an exception. Eligibility depends on the facts of the case and the applicable policy.

Does This Affect a Valid Immigrant Visa That Has Already Been Issued?

Immigrant visas issued before the restrictions took effect generally have not been revoked under the policy. However, admission to the United States is determined separately by border and immigration authorities, and individual circumstances may affect the outcome.

Does the 75 Country Visa Ban Apply to Tourist or Student Visas?

The January 2026 policy primarily concerns immigrant visas used to obtain permanent residence in the United States. Nonimmigrant visa categories, such as tourist and student visas, have generally been treated differently under current policy.

Can I Still Apply for an Immigrant Visa if My Country Is on the List?

In many situations, individuals may still be able to begin the immigration process and attend an interview. However, visa issuance may be affected by current restrictions and any future policy or legal changes. The impact can vary depending on the applicant’s circumstances.