U.S. halts processing of visas, green cards, and naturalization for nationals from previously restricted countries citing national security concerns.
Trump administration has paused immigration proceedings for nationals from 19 countries, affecting even applicants in the final stages of U.S. citizenship, according to a December 2, 2025, memo from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The freeze covers countries previously targeted by President Trump’s travel bans, issued earlier this year. Twelve nations—including Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Somalia, and Yemen—face full travel restrictions, while seven others, such as Cuba, Sierra Leone, and Venezuela, face partial restrictions. The USCIS document labels these countries as “high-risk” and orders a halt to asylum, green card, and other immigration benefit applications.
The memo also directs USCIS to re-review approved immigration benefits for nationals of the listed countries who entered the United States on or after January 20, 2021. Officials emphasized that all cases will undergo a “thorough, individualized review,” potentially including interviews or re-interviews, to assess national security and public safety risks.
Read Also: ICE Accused of Detaining ‘Out-of-Status’ Immigrants At USCIS
“This memorandum mandates that all aliens meeting these criteria undergo a thorough re-review process, including a potential interview… to fully assess all national security and public safety threats,” the USCIS said in its statement. “An individualized, case-by-case assessment will be conducted of all relevant information and facts.”
The move follows concerns among Trump administration officials regarding security lapses tied to the resettlement of Afghan nationals under former President Joe Biden’s Operation Allies Welcome. The pause comes shortly after a fatal shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C., allegedly involving an Afghan national who has now been formally charged.
Citizenship ceremonies, asylum claims, and green card applications for affected applicants are now in limbo. USCIS confirmed it would also conduct a broader review of internal policies and operational guidance during this process to ensure accuracy and compliance.
A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson defended the policy, telling NBC News: “Citizenship is a privilege, not a right. We will take no chances when the future of our nation is at stake… Individuals becoming citizens must be the best of the best.”
The decision underscores the administration’s continued focus on tightening immigration from countries perceived as security risks, highlighting the intersection of national security and immigration policy amid heightened scrutiny of U.S. borders.
Africa Daily News, New York
