The United States Embassy in Kuwait has clarified that despite a forthcoming pause on immigrant visa issuance for nationals of 75 countries – including Kuwait – applications will still be accepted, and a significant exemption exists for dual nationals. This announcement aims to address concerns and provide clarity following the US Department of State’s recent policy shift, which will begin impacting applicants on January 21, 2026. Understanding the nuances of this change is crucial for anyone planning to immigrate to the US from an affected nation.
Understanding the Immigrant Visa Pause
The Department of State’s decision to temporarily halt the issuance of immigrant visas is part of a comprehensive review of existing immigration policies. Spokesperson Stuart Turner emphasized that this pause is specifically limited to individuals applying for immigrant visas – those seeking to live permanently in the United States. This does not affect non-immigrant visas, such as those for tourism, business, or study.
This means individuals seeking tourist visas, student visas, or work visas will not be impacted by this new measure. The Department of State is undertaking this review to ensure future immigrants are financially self-sufficient and do not become reliant on public funds. President Trump has consistently stated the importance of immigrants being able to support themselves.
What Countries are Affected?
The list of countries impacted by the pause is extensive. It includes Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Burma, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Colombia, Cote d’Ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, The Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyz Republic, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, and Yemen.
Key Clarifications and Exemptions: Dual Nationality Rules
A critical point of clarification concerns the status of dual nationals. The US Embassy has confirmed that individuals holding citizenship in both an affected country and a country not on the list are exempt from the pause, provided they apply using the passport from the non-restricted nation. This is a significant relief for many who may have multiple citizenships.
Additionally, the Embassy has assured applicants that no currently valid immigrant visas have been revoked as a result of this announcement. Those who already have approved visas can proceed with their plans. However, new applications from nationals of the listed countries will be accepted, but no visas will be issued during the pause.
What About Existing Applications?
Applicants from the affected countries who have already submitted their applications or have scheduled interview appointments are encouraged to proceed as planned. While the issuance of visas will be paused, the Embassy will continue to process applications during this period. This allows the Department of State to prepare for the policy changes and conduct its thorough review.
This processing ensures that when the pause is lifted, applications can be efficiently reviewed and decisions made. It’s important to note that the timeline for lifting the pause remains undefined at this time.
Implications for Kuwaiti Applicants and Beyond
For Kuwaiti citizens seeking to immigrate to the US, this pause presents a temporary hurdle. While applications can still be submitted, the actual issuance of an immigrant visa will be delayed until the review is complete. This situation underscores the importance of careful planning and understanding the evolving landscape of US immigration policy.
The Department of Homeland Security retains the ultimate authority regarding admission to the United States, and this pause focuses specifically on the visa issuance process conducted by the Department of State. The overarching goal is to ensure a sustainable and responsible immigration system.
Staying Informed and Seeking Guidance
The US Embassy in Kuwait continues to provide updates and guidance on this evolving situation. Individuals with specific questions or concerns are encouraged to visit the Embassy’s website or contact them directly for assistance. Understanding the details of this policy change, particularly the dual nationality exemption, is vital for anyone affected.
This pause on immigrant visas is a significant development, but it doesn’t represent a complete shutdown of immigration. By staying informed and understanding the available options, applicants can navigate this process effectively. Regularly checking the US Department of State website for updates on US visa policies is also highly recommended.
