The US State Department has dismissed reports suggesting the government is preparing a draft list to impose new visa restrictions on several countries, including Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran. Reaffirming its commitment to resettling Afghans who assisted the US mission in Afghanistan, the department clarified that no such list exists.
During a recent news briefing, State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce acknowledged that the Trump administration is conducting a broader security review of visa policies following an executive order issued on January 20. However, Bruce refuted claims that Afghanistan or other countries are on a list facing a full suspension of visa issuance.
Clarification on Visa Restrictions
Bruce stated, “There is no list. What people are looking at over these last several days is not a list that exists here that is being acted on.” She explained that the review is part of an ongoing process to evaluate visa policies and enhance US security.
Read: US Travel Ban Targets 41 Countries, Including Pakistan
The spokesperson’s response follows the emergence of a draft memo, reportedly seen by Reuters, which identifies 41 countries categorized into three groups subject to different levels of travel restrictions:
- Full Visa Suspension: Countries like Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, Cuba, and North Korea would face a complete halt in visa issuance.
- Partial Suspension: Five countries would see restrictions on tourist, student, and other immigrant visas, with some exceptions.
- Conditional Suspension: 26 countries, including Pakistan, Belarus, and Turkmenistan, would face partial visa suspensions if their governments fail to address security deficiencies within 60 days.
U.S. visa screening does not stop after a visa is issued. We continuously check visa holders to ensure they follow all U.S. laws and immigration rules – and we will revoke their visas and deport them if they don’t. pic.twitter.com/aZsnUTnXGP
— Department of State (@StateDept) March 17, 2025The State Department emphasized its commitment to resettling Afghans who supported the US mission in Afghanistan, ensuring their safety and well-being. This clarification comes amid concerns over the potential impact of visa restrictions on vulnerable populations.
