Trump administration sued over pause on immigrant visa processing policy
What's the story
A coalition of civil rights organizations has filed a lawsuit against the United States State Department for halting immigrant visa processing for citizens from 75 countries. The lawsuit, filed on Monday in a Manhattan federal court, seeks to block the policy introduced on January 21. The plaintiffs include the National Immigration Law Center and other groups representing US citizens separated from family members due to this policy.
Legal challenge
Plaintiffs challenge State Department's rationale
The lawsuit takes issue with the State Department's assertion that applicants from these countries are more likely to become "public charges" by relying on government welfare. The complaint describes this policy as "based on an unsupported and demonstrably false claim that nationals of the covered countries migrate to the United States to improperly rely on cash welfare and are likely to become 'public charges.'"
Personal impact
Personal stories highlight the policy's impact
Among the plaintiffs is a Colombian endocrinologist who was approved for an employment-based visa. However, she is unable to obtain it as Colombia is one of the countries affected by the pause. The policy affects applicants from Latin America, the Balkans, South Asia and several regions in Africa, Middle East and Caribbean.
Defense statement
State Department defends decision amid lawsuit
In response to the lawsuit, State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott defended the decision. He said, "A visa is a privilege not a right." Pigott added that the policy is intended to prevent misuse of public funds and improve screening and vetting procedures. However, he also emphasized that their priority remains with American citizens.
Ongoing review
Policy does not affect US visitor visas
The State Department has clarified that this policy does not affect US visitor visas. This is a crucial distinction as the United States gears up to host major global events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympic Games. A cable sent by the State Department to US missions revealed that they are conducting a "full review" of their policies to ensure high-level screening for all visa applicants from these countries.