USCIS Update: Immigration Processing Paused for 19 Countries*

*This information reflects guidance available as of December 3, 2025. Immigration policies are subject to change; please refer to the official USCIS website for the most current updates.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued an immigration pause on application processing for individuals from 19 specific countries. This pause applies to all final decisions on immigration benefits, including green cards, naturalization, and other adjudications. According to recent national news reporting, the pause is part of a broader review process aimed at adding additional vetting measures for applicants from these countries.

Countries Included in the Pause

The 19 affected countries are: Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

What “Paused” Means for Your Application

According to immigration experts and recent reports reviewed by professional associations, the pause affects all final decisions for individuals from these countries. This includes approvals and denials for all application types and green card processing.

There have also been reports of canceled naturalization oath ceremonies and postponed adjustment of status interviews for candidates from some of the impacted countries. The pause remains in place until USCIS issues updated guidance outlining new vetting procedures.

What It Means for International Candidates

If You are from One of the 19 Countries:

• Your immigration application is temporarily on hold, even if it is already in progress.
• Interviews or naturalization ceremonies may be canceled or rescheduled.
• Processing will not resume until USCIS releases new guidance.
• WorldWide HealthStaff Solutions (WWHS) will continue to monitor updates and provide information as soon as it becomes available.

If You  are from Any Other Country:

• Your immigration process continues as normal.
• No changes have been announced for applicants from non-impacted countries at this time.
• Your current timeline should remain unaffected unless USCIS issues additional updates.

What You Can Do Now

1. Check the USCIS website for updates, as all official declarations will be made here.
2. Avoid making major plans that depend on final immigration approval until you receive official confirmation.
3. Reach out to your WWHS representative or case manager if you have questions or need support understanding how this update may affect your individual case.

Our Commitment to Supporting You

WWHS understands that this announcement may create uncertainty for some candidates. Our goal is to provide clear, factual updates based strictly on publicly available information and professional guidance. We are committed to helping every candidate understand what this change means and how to move forward in achieving your career goals.

We will continue to monitor all developments and share updates as soon as they are confirmed. For questions or support, please contact us directly or stay connected through our official communication channels such as email and our Facebook page.