The United States Department of State has paused the issuance of immigrant visas to nationals of several countries, including Bangladesh, citing concerns over high rates of public assistance use among some immigrants, according to a notice posted by the US Embassy in Dhaka.

The measure, effective January 21, 2026, suspends the final issuance of immigrant visas to affected nationals but does not apply to non-immigrant visitor visas, the embassy said in a statement shared on its verified Facebook page on Monday.

“Immigrant visa applicants who are nationals of impacted countries may submit visa applications and attend interviews, and the Department of State will continue to schedule visa interviews,” the notice said. It added that the pause specifically concerns the issuance of immigrant visas.

The Department of State said the step was taken in relation to countries “whose immigrants have a high rate of collecting public assistance at the expense of the U.S. taxpayer.”

Immigrant visas are typically issued to individuals seeking lawful permanent residence in the United States, including family-sponsored applicants and certain employment-based categories.

The pause does not affect visitor visas, which permit temporary travel for tourism or business purposes.

The embassy advised applicants to visit https://ow.ly/7b6C50YnR5u for more information. 

The US Embassy in Dhaka regularly posts reminders and advice about visas on its verified social media accounts, including information on how to apply, what documents you need, and how to follow US immigration rules.