Scope of the Pause
The pause applies to countries including Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Somalia, Iraq, Egypt, Nigeria, Thailand, and Yemen. While the halt is indefinite, very limited exceptions will be made for applicants who meet public charge criteria. The decision comes as the department reassesses its screening and vetting procedures for potential immigrants.
Public Charge Provision Enforcement
Consular officers are instructed to consider factors such as age, health, English proficiency, financial stability, and potential long-term medical needs when reviewing visa applications. Prior use of government cash assistance or institutionalization may also result in denial. The department emphasized that the measure is designed to prevent individuals from exploiting US public resources.
Why Somalia is Under Focus
Somalia has received particular scrutiny following a significant fraud case in Minnesota involving misuse of taxpayer-funded benefits. Officials noted that many charged individuals were Somali nationals or Somali-Americans, influencing the stricter enforcement of public charge rules for Somali applicants.
Policy Context
The public charge rule has existed for decades, but enforcement has varied across US administrations. In 2019, the Trump administration expanded its scope to include more public benefits, though parts were later rescinded in court. Under the Biden administration, the focus narrowed to cash assistance and long-term institutional care, excluding programs like SNAP, WIC, Medicaid, and housing vouchers.
Officials say the pause will remain in effect while procedures are reviewed to ensure compliance with current law, affecting visa applicants globally.
