Naturalization

U.S. halts processing of visas, green cards, and naturalization for nationals from previously restricted countries citing national security concerns.

Trump administration has paused immigration proceedings for nationals from 19 countries, affecting even applicants in the final stages of U.S. citizenship, according to a December 2, 2025, memo from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

The freeze covers countries previously targeted by President Trump’s travel bans, issued earlier this year. Twelve nations—including Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Somalia, and Yemen—face full travel restrictions, while seven others, such as Cuba, Sierra Leone, and Venezuela, face partial restrictions. The USCIS document labels these countries