U.S. Suspends Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries: Will it Affect Your World Cup Plans?

You’ve spent the last three years waiting for your Green Card interview. You’ve paid the fees, submitted the medical exams, and dreamed of finally reuniting with your family in New York or Los Angeles. You open your email, expecting an interview date. Instead, you see a notification: "Suspended Indefinitely."

As of January 21, 2026, this is the harsh reality for thousands of families across the globe.

The U.S. State Department has hit the "pause" button on immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries. The reason? A new crackdown on "Public Charge" risks—essentially, the government believes immigrants from these nations are too likely to use social benefits (like food stamps or housing assistance) once they arrive.

But with the 2026 FIFA World Cup just around the corner, millions of fans are panicking. Does this mean you can’t fly in to watch the games?

Here is your plain-English guide to what is happening, who is banned, and whether you can still pack your bags for the World Cup.

The "Public Charge" Ban Explained (Simple Version)

First, let’s clear up the confusion. The U.S. visa system is split into two main buckets:

1. Immigrant Visas: For people who want to move to the U.S. permanently (get a Green Card).

2. Non-Immigrant Visas: For people visiting temporarily (Tourists, Students, Business).

The new rule generally targets Bucket #1.

If you are from one of the 75 listed countries and you are trying to move to the U.S. permanently, your process is frozen. The U.S. government is effectively saying, "We need to double-check that you won't cost the American taxpayers money before we let you in."

Key Takeaway: If you just want to visit Disney World or watch a World Cup match, this specific order does not automatically ban you. (But keep reading, because it’s not that simple).

The "Red List": Is Your Country Affected?

The list includes major nations across South America, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. If you are a national of these countries, your Green Card petition is currently on hold.

The 75 Countries:

• Americas: Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Nicaragua, Uruguay.

• Asia/Middle East: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Pakistan, Syria, Thailand, Uzbekistan, Yemen.

• Africa: Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya (implied by region, check official list), Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan.

• Europe/Eurasia: Albania, Armenia, Bosnia, Georgia, Kosovo, Moldova, Russia, Ukraine (check specific status).

(Note: This is a summarized list based on the official January 2026 announcement. Always check the official State Department site for the complete 75-country register.)

World Cup 2026: The "Fan" Survival Guide

The biggest question we are getting at Best Attorney US is: "I have tickets to the semi-final in Atlanta. Can I still go?"

The Short Answer: Yes, probably.

The Long Answer: It depends on your visa type.

Since the ban specifically targets Immigrant Visas, tourists applying for B-1/B-2 Visas are technically safe. However, you should expect extreme scrutiny.

If the U.S. government thinks nationals from your country use too many public benefits, the consular officer at your interview might think, "If I let this person in as a tourist, will they stay and try to live here illegally?"

Real-Life Scenario: The "Silva" Family (Brazil)

Let's look at a Brazilian family to understand the difference.

What If I Already Have an Appointment?

This is where it gets frustrating.

• If you have an Immigrant Visa interview scheduled: Go to it. But do not expect a visa. The officer will likely interview you and then hand you a "221(g)" refusal sheet, saying your case is strictly on hold until the policy changes.

• If you are applying for a Green Card from inside the U.S. (Adjustment of Status): You are likely safe! This order applies to consulates abroad. If you are already in the U.S. legally, you can typically continue your Form I-485 process.

Comparison Table: Are You Safe?

Use this table to check your status instantly.

Why Is This Happening? (The "Public Charge" Debate)

The official reason given by the Trump Administration (2026) is financial protection. They argue that data shows immigrants from these 75 countries access welfare at high rates.

• The Government's View: "We are protecting the American taxpayer from footing the bill for new immigrants."

• The Critics' View: "This is a blanket ban that punishes hardworking professionals based on their nationality, not their individual skills."

For example, Uruguay is on the list despite having a relatively wealthy economy compared to others. Critics argue this proves the list is broad and political, rather than precise.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: I am a U.S. Citizen. Can I still bring my spouse from Pakistan?

A: You can start the petition (Form I-130), but the final visa processing at the embassy in Islamabad is currently suspended. It will be a long wait.

Q2: Will this ban affect the 2026 World Cup players?

A: No. Athletes use P-1 visas, which are non-immigrant visas. Your favorite players from Brazil or Nigeria will still be on the field.

Q3: Is there any exception?

A: Yes! Dual Nationals. If you hold a passport from Brazil (Banned) and Italy (Not Banned), you can apply using your Italian passport to bypass the restriction.

Q4: How long will this last?

A: The order says "indefinitely" or until the State Department revises its screening procedures. In immigration terms, this could mean 6 months, or it could mean years.

References & Official Sources

Always verify information on official government sites. Do not rely on rumors.

1. Visa Bulletin & News: U.S. Department of State - Visa News

2. Public Charge Information: USCIS - Public Charge Resources

3. World Cup Travel: FIFA World Cup 2026 - Fan Travel Guide