The U.S. State Department announced today it will suspend the processing of new permanent visas for citizens of 75 countries, beginning January 21, 2029, a move impacting individuals seeking to immigrate to the United States. While the full list of affected nations remains unreleased, Thailand has been confirmed, raising concerns for prospective residents and signaling a potential shift in U.S. immigration policy. Officials state the restrictions are tied to security and data-sharing concerns, but will not impact existing travel or student visas, seeking to minimize broader disruptions to international exchange [[2]].
US Suspends Permanent Visas for Citizens of 75 Countries, Including Thailand
The United States has announced it will suspend the issuance of certain permanent visas for citizens of 75 countries, including Thailand, effective January 21, 2029. The move, confirmed by the US State Department, impacts applicants seeking to establish permanent residency in the US.
According to reports, the visa restrictions do not apply to tourist or student visas. Jesdaporn Sunthara, a Thai official, clarified that travel and educational visas would remain unaffected, reassuring those planning trips or studies in the US. This announcement comes as concerns arose following initial reports of a potential broad visa crackdown.
The decision to suspend visa processing for these countries stems from issues related to the countries’ compliance with US security requirements and data sharing practices. Kobsak Chutikul, a political analyst, explained the reasoning behind Thailand’s inclusion on the list, suggesting it relates to these specific criteria. The development underscores the importance of international cooperation on immigration and security matters.
While the suspension primarily affects those seeking to live and work permanently in the US, officials have emphasized that visitor visas and student visas will continue to be processed as usual. This distinction aims to minimize disruption to travel and educational exchange programs. The announcement could influence future diplomatic talks between the US and the affected nations as they work to address the identified concerns.
The US State Department has not yet released a comprehensive list of the 75 countries affected, but Thailand has been officially confirmed as one of them. The restrictions are expected to remain in place until the countries in question meet the necessary requirements for visa reinstatement.
