US suspends immigrant visas for 75 countries including Bangladesh, concerns over new decision

The US has temporarily suspended the issuance of immigrant visas for citizens of 75 countries around the world, including Bangladesh. This decision has created uncertainty among those interested in obtaining permanent residence in the United States.

The US Embassy Dhaka located in Dhaka said in a message that the US Department of State has implemented this decision. It said that many immigrants from the concerned countries are becoming dependent on government assistance after going to the United States, which is creating additional pressure on taxpayers.

The message further mentioned that this suspension applies only to immigrant visas. This decision will not be effective for other non-immigrant visas including tourists, students.

It is known that this policy is effective from January 21, 2026. Earlier on January 4, US President Donald Trump published a list on social media about the rate of immigrants from different countries receiving government assistance.

The list contains information on 120 countries and regions, where Bangladesh was in 19th position. According to the list, about 54.8 percent of Bangladeshi immigrant families living in the United States receive government assistance.

Several other South Asian countries - Bhutan, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Nepal - were included in the list.

According to analysts, the decision indicates a tough stance of the United States on immigration policy. At the same time, it is expected that more restrictions may be imposed on the immigration process in the future.