Fiji has emerged as the only Pacific Island country affected by a sweeping new decision by the United States Department of State to suspend the processing of immigrant visas for citizens of 75 countries.
The suspension, announced on Wednesday, will take effect from January 21 and targets countries whose nationals the Donald Trump administration says are more likely to require public assistance while living in the United States.
Among other countries on the list are Afghanistan, Iran, Russia and Somalia.
The State Department, under Marco Rubio, said consular officers worldwide have been instructed to halt immigrant visa applications from the affected countries in line with broader guidance issued in November tightening “public charge” rules for prospective immigrants.
The suspension does not apply to non-immigrant visas, such as tourist or business visas, which make up the majority of U.S. visa applications. Demand for these temporary visas is expected to increase significantly ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games, both to be hosted or co-hosted by the United States.
In a statement, the department said the move was aimed at preventing abuse of the U.S. immigration system, adding that immigrant visa processing from the 75 countries would be paused while procedures are reassessed to prevent the entry of foreign nationals likely to rely on welfare and public benefits.
The Trump administration has already imposed severe restrictions on both immigrant and non-immigrant visa processing for citizens of dozens of countries, particularly across Africa, Asia and Latin America.
Fiji’s inclusion makes it the sole Pacific nation impacted by the latest directive.
Under the updated guidance, visa applicants are subject to enhanced scrutiny, including assessments of their health, finances, education, skills, family status, English proficiency and any past use of public assistance.
While U.S. law has long required immigrants to prove they will not become a public charge, experts say the expanded criteria could further limit who qualifies for permanent residency at a time when immigration rules are becoming increasingly stringent.
