The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has informed the public that the Government of the United States has announced an indefinite pause on the processing of certain immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries, including Liberia, effective January 21, 2026.
According to the Ministry, the decision is part of a broader review of U.S. visa screening and vetting procedures under what is known as the “public charge” rule.
However, the Ministry emphasized that the measure does not amount to a visa ban and affects only visas that lead to permanent residence in the United States.
“The pause applies strictly to immigrant visas and does not affect non-immigrant visas,” the Ministry stated. “Tourist, business, student, exchange, and other temporary visas continue to be processed, and all existing valid visas remain valid and are not cancelled.”
The Ministry explained that the affected categories include family-based, employment-based, Diversity Visa (DV), and other immigrant visa classifications that result in permanent residency, commonly referred to as a green card.
Importantly, the Foreign Ministry disclosed that immigrant visa interviews will continue as scheduled, clarifying that only the issuance of immigrant visas has been temporarily paused.
“As of tonight, the Ministry can confirm that interviews for immigrant visas will continue unhindered,” the statement said. “Only the issuance of the immigrant visa is paused pending new guidelines from the United States government.”
The Government of Liberia acknowledged that the decision may have implications for citizens seeking permanent residence in the U.S. and assured the public that it is actively engaging American authorities through diplomatic channels.
“The Government of Liberia is in communication with U.S. authorities to seek clarity on the scope and duration of this pause and to advocate for fair consideration of Liberian applicants,” the Ministry noted.
The Ministry further urged the public to rely solely on official government communications and avoid misinformation, stressing that non-immigrant travel remains open.
“Liberians traveling for tourism, education, or business may continue to do so lawfully, and holders of valid U.S. visas are free to travel,” the statement emphasized.
The Ministry said it will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available from U.S. authorities.
