The U.S. is pausing immigrant visa processing for 75 countries, including Georgia, in an effort to crack down on applicants deemed likely to become a public charge, Fox News reported based on the memorandum from the U.S. State Department.

A State Department memo directs consular officers to refuse visas under existing law while the department reassesses screening and vetting procedures.

According to Fox News, the pause will begin January 21 and will continue indefinitely until the department conducts a reassessment of immigrant visa processing.

Fox News writes that in November 2025, a State Department cable sent to posts around the globe instructed consular officers to enforce sweeping new screening rules under the so-called “public charge” provision of immigration law.

The guidance instructs consular officers to deny visas to applicants deemed likely to rely on public benefits, weighing a wide range of factors including health, age, English proficiency, finances and even potential need for long-term medical care.

“The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people. Immigration from these 75 countries will be paused while the State Department reassesses immigration processing procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who would take welfare and public benefits,” State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott said in a statement.