US Suspends Immigrant Visas for Bangladeshis Pending Policy Review

The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka has explained the temporary suspension of immigrant visa processing for Bangladeshi nationals, saying the move is part of a broader review of U.S. visa screening policies.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the embassy said the decision was taken to ensure that immigrants do not become dependent on U.S. government welfare programs and that taxpayer-funded public benefits are not used improperly.

According to the embassy, the suspension, effective from January 21, is intended to allow a comprehensive review of visa vetting procedures to ensure they align with the interests of U.S. citizens and national priorities.

The embassy clarified that the measure applies only to immigrant visas, which are issued to individuals seeking permanent residence in the United States.

Non-immigrant visas—including tourist, student, business, and other temporary travel visas—are not affected by the policy review and will continue to be processed under existing procedures.

The announcement comes as the Trump administration continues to tighten immigration policies while reviewing various visa and immigration programs.