The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) paused the processing of immigration applications from an additional 20 countries, effective January 1st, following an expansion of existing travel restrictions. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the pause in a memo released Thursday, stating that it would temporarily halt the review of all pending applications for visas, green cards, citizenship, or asylum from immigrants originating from these nations.

The memo further detailed plans to re-review applications from immigrants from these countries dating back to 2021. The list of affected countries, primarily located in Africa, includes Angola, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. The Trump administration expanded the list of countries with travel restrictions last month, prompting this latest action by USCIS.

According to the USCIS memo, the pause is necessary to ensure thorough vetting procedures are followed in light of the expanded travel restrictions. The agency stated that the re-review of older applications is intended to identify any potential national security or public safety concerns that may have arisen since the initial application was filed.

Immigration lawyers and advocacy groups have expressed concern over the potential impact of the pause. Some argue that the move will further delay an already backlogged immigration system, while others worry about the fairness and transparency of the re-review process. "This decision will undoubtedly create more uncertainty and anxiety for individuals and families seeking to build their lives in the United States," said immigration attorney Sarah Cohen.

The exact criteria used to select the 20 additional countries have not been publicly disclosed by DHS. However, the agency has indicated that factors such as national security concerns, visa overstay rates, and cooperation with U.S. law enforcement were considered.

USCIS has not provided a specific timeline for when the pause will be lifted. The agency stated that it will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. In the meantime, individuals from the affected countries with pending applications are advised to consult with an immigration attorney to understand their options.