The United States has announced an indefinite suspension of visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, including Libya, as part of tighter immigration controls introduced by the current administration.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said all procedures related to the issuance of foreign visas from the listed countries have been frozen until further notice. The measure includes the suspension of immigrant (residency) visas for nationals from dozens of states across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
According to US officials, the move is part of a broader effort to strengthen screening of foreign nationals seeking entry to the United States and to reassess immigration regulations, particularly the so-called “Public Charge” provision in US law. This rule allows authorities to deny visas to applicants who are deemed likely to become dependent on public assistance.
Media reports said the State Department has instructed US embassies and consulates to review and tighten vetting standards. The updated checks are expected to cover applicants’ health conditions, financial stability, language proficiency, and the likelihood of requiring long-term medical or social support.
The decision comes amid growing political debate in the United States over immigration and visa policies, with the current administration adopting a more restrictive approach compared with previous governments, citing national security, economic considerations, and pressure on public services.
Libya’s inclusion in the list is expected to have significant implications for students, business travelers, family reunification cases, and prospective immigrants, as uncertainty grows over when normal visa processing might resume.
