Jan 17 , 2026
The United States has halted all immigrant visa issuance for nationals of 75 countries, including Ethiopia, effective 12:01 a.m. on January 21. While applications can still be submitted, no visas will be granted during the suspension, which also applies to diversity immigrant visas. U.S. authorities cited high reliance on public assistance by immigrants from Ethiopia and Eritrea as a burden on taxpayers.