15/01/2026
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs informs the public that the Government of the United States has announced an indefinite pause in the processing of certain immigrant visas for nationals of seventy-five countries, including Liberia.
This measure is scheduled to take effect on January 21, 2026, and is part of a review of U.S. visa screening and vetting procedures under the “public charge” rule.
The Ministry wishes to clearly emphasize that this pause applies only to immigrant visas and does NOT affect non-immigrant visas. Tourist, business, student, exchange, and other temporary visas continue to be processed, and existing valid visas remain valid and are not cancelled.
The pause affects only visas that lead to permanent residence (green card) in the United States, including family-based, employment-based, Diversity Visa, and other immigrant classifications. It does not constitute a ban on U.S. visas for Liberian citizens.
The Government of Liberia recognizes the potential impact on citizens seeking permanent residence and is engaging U.S. authorities through diplomatic channels to seek clarification on the scope and duration of the pause and to advocate for fair consideration of Liberian applicants.
As of tonight, the Ministry can confirm that even interviews for immigrant visas will continue unhindered. Only the issuance of the immigrant visa is paused pending new guidelines to be issued by the United States government.
The Ministry encourages the public to rely on official updates. Non-immigrant travel for tourism, study, and business remains open, and Liberians with valid visas may continue to travel lawfully.
