The United States has temporarily suspended the issuance of immigrant visas for citizens of Bangladesh and 74 other countries, according to an announcement by the US Embassy in Dhaka on Monday.
In a statement shared on its official Facebook page, the embassy said the decision took effect on 21 January 2026. The US Department of State has paused the processing and issuance of immigrant visas for nationals of countries identified as having a high rate of public assistance usage among immigrants.
The embassy clarified that the suspension applies only to immigrant visas and does not affect non-immigrant or visitor visas. Individuals seeking tourist, business, student or other temporary visas may continue to apply under existing procedures.
It also noted that applicants from the affected countries are still allowed to submit immigrant visa applications and attend scheduled interviews.
However, while interviews will continue to be arranged, the actual issuance of immigrant visas has been put on hold until further notice.
The move is part of what US authorities described as a policy review concerning the financial impact of immigration on American taxpayers. No timeline has been provided for when the suspension might be lifted.
The announcement may affect many Bangladeshi families planning permanent migration to the United States, particularly those awaiting family-based or employment-based immigrant visas. Further guidance is expected from the Department of State as the policy is implemented.
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