Rights organisations have launched a legal challenge against the Trump administration over a sweeping pause on immigrant visa processing. The policy affects citizens from 75 countries. It took effect on January 21 and has already disrupted thousands of families and professionals.
The lawsuit was filed in federal court in Manhattan. It asks a judge to immediately block the visa freeze. The plaintiffs argue that the move violates long-standing immigration rules and causes serious harm to lawful applicants.
The case highlights growing tension between immigration advocates and the administration over visa screening policies and national priorities.
Lawsuit Claims Visa Freeze Is Unlawful and Discriminatory
The legal challenge was brought by the National Immigration Law Center and several allied rights groups. They filed the case on behalf of US citizens and foreign nationals affected by the freeze.
According to the complaint, the State Department halted immigrant visa processing without proper legal authority. The lawsuit says the policy relies on false assumptions. It claims officials wrongly label applicants as future “public charges.”
The filing states that there is no evidence that nationals from the targeted countries misuse welfare benefits. It argues that the government’s justification lacks factual support and ignores individual circumstances.
Several US citizens are named as plaintiffs. They say the policy has separated them from spouses, children, and parents. Many had already completed years of paperwork and background checks.
One plaintiff is a Colombian endocrinologist. He was approved for an employment-based immigrant visa. However, he cannot receive it because Colombia is included in the affected list.
Rights groups argue that the freeze undermines trust in the legal immigration system. They warn it could discourage skilled workers from seeking lawful entry into the United States.
State Department Defends Policy as Security Measure
The State Department has defended the decision. Officials say visas are privileges, not guaranteed rights.
In a public statement, State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the pause protects American interests. He claimed the policy prevents billions of dollars in waste, fraud, and abuse.
Pigott said the department is reviewing current procedures. He added that the goal is to improve screening and vetting standards. According to him, national security and economic protection come first.
A State Department cable sent to US embassies supports this position. The document says the government is conducting a “full review” of visa policies. It emphasizes stronger checks for all applicants.
The cable claims applicants from the 75 countries present a higher risk of becoming public charges. It also suggests they may rely on government resources after arrival.
Critics strongly dispute these claims. They argue the criteria unfairly target specific regions and income groups.
Wide Global Impact and Growing Concerns
The visa freeze affects a broad range of countries. These include Pakistan and Bangladesh in South Asia. Several Latin American nations are also impacted, such as Brazil, Colombia, and Uruguay.
The list extends to Balkan states like Bosnia and Albania. Many countries in Africa, the Middle East, and the Caribbean are also included.
The policy does not apply to visitor visas. Tourist and short-term travel visas remain unaffected. This distinction is important as the US prepares to host the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics.
Still, rights groups warn the damage is already significant. They say families remain separated. Employers face uncertainty. Skilled workers are left in limbo.
The court has not yet ruled on the request for an injunction. However, the case is expected to draw national attention.
Legal experts say the outcome could shape future US immigration policy. For now, thousands wait for clarity and relief.
