The United States has imposed a freeze on immigrant visa processing for several East African countries, effective January 21, 2026. The move affects Somalia, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Sudan, and South Sudan, but notably excludes Kenya. This suspension is part of a broader initiative by the US to limit immigration from 75 countries worldwide.
According to a notice circulated to US embassies and consulates, the freeze applies to various types of immigrant visas, including those issued based on family ties, employment, adoption, and the diversity visa program. This means that nationals of the listed countries will not be able to apply for employment-based immigration or family reunification visas during this period.
The US Department of State has cited concerns over migrants from these countries allegedly taking advantage of American welfare systems at unacceptable rates. “The State Department will pause immigrant visa processing from 75 countries whose migrants take welfare from the American people at unacceptable rates,” said Tommy Pigott, Principal Deputy Spokesperson at the US Department of State. The freeze is intended to remain in place until the US can ensure that new immigrants will not exploit the American people.
Some of the affected East African countries have faced scrutiny from the US administration in recent times, with allegations of immigration fraud and governance concerns. Somalia, in particular, has been under the spotlight following accusations of welfare fraud involving immigrants in the US state of Minnesota.
Kenya’s exclusion from the list is significant, as it means that its citizens can continue to apply for US immigrant visas under existing programs. This comes as a relief to families, workers, and diversity visa applicants, who are facing increasingly stringent US immigration controls. The development is likely to have implications for immigration trends and policies in the region, and will be closely watched by stakeholders and observers alike.
