Business
US suspends immigrant visa processing for Thailand
The United States has announced a suspension on issuing immigrant visas for nationals of Thailand, as part of a broader policy affecting 75 countries.
This policy was announced by the U.S. Department of State on January 14, 2026, and takes effect on January 21, 2026. It is described as an indefinite pause while the department reassesses immigration screening and vetting procedures, specifically to address concerns about applicants who may become a “public charge” (likely to rely on public benefits or welfare in the U.S.).
Key Details
- Scope: This applies only to immigrant visas (those leading to permanent residency/green cards, such as family-sponsored or employment-based). It does not affect nonimmigrant visas (e.g., tourist, business, student, or temporary visas).
- What happens during the pause: Applicants from affected countries (including Thailand) can still submit applications and attend scheduled interviews, but no immigrant visas will be issued until the pause is lifted. There is no specified end date.
- Exceptions: Dual nationals using a passport from a non-listed country may be exempt.
- Reason: The administration cites the need to prevent immigrants from becoming reliant on U.S. public assistance, enforcing existing “public charge” rules more stringently.
Thailand is explicitly included in the official list of 75 affected countries, alongside others such as Afghanistan, Brazil, Cambodia, China is not on the list (e.g., India is not affected), but many in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe are.
This is part of the current administration’s broader immigration crackdown. For the most up-to-date official information, check the U.S. Department of State’s website (travel.state.gov) or the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok’s visa page (th.usembassy.gov/visas). If you’re an applicant, consult an immigration attorney for personalized advice, as policies can evolve quickly.
