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We are closely monitoring the recent announcement from the U.S. Department of State regarding changes to visa processing. On January 14, 2026, the Trump administration confirmed an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026. This policy stems from concerns over the potential for applicants to become a “public charge” (i.e., likely to rely on certain public benefits/welfare programs), building on existing immigration law provisions that the administration has expanded in scope.

Key details include:

  • The suspension applies only to immigrant visas (those leading to permanent residency/green cards, such as family-sponsored, employment-based leading to permanent status, or diversity visa categories).
  • It does not affect non-immigrant/temporary visas, including: B-1/B-2 visitor visas (for tourism, business, or short-term stays), J-1 exchange visitor visas, F-1 student visas, H-2B temporary non-agricultural worker visas (commonly used in hospitality for seasonal workforce needs), H-1B (specialty occupations), or certain L visas.
  • The list of countries that will be impacted by the suspension are: Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia, Brazil, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Colombia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cuba, Dominica, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, The Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Ivory Coast, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, North Macedonia, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, and Yemen.
  • The administration has emphasized that this pause allows reassessment of vetting procedures to prioritize fiscal responsibility and prevent abuse of public benefits. It explicitly spares temporary entrants, including those for major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup (co-hosted by the U.S., with Miami as a key venue).

Impact on our industry and members:

Greater Miami and the Beaches rely heavily on international tourism as well as temporary workforce programs. This policy change does not disrupt:

  • Tourist arrivals on B-1/B-2 visas, which drive the majority of our visitor economy (including leisure travelers, meetings, and events).
  • Seasonal or temporary workers hotels often employ via H-2B or similar non-immigrant programs to address labor shortages in housekeeping, food & beverage, and other front-line roles.

No immediate changes are expected for these visa categories, though all visa applicants may continue to face standard scrutiny (e.g., financial requirements, intent to return home for non-immigrants). The administration has noted that non-immigrant visa demand, including for World Cup visitors, remains supported.

We will continue tracking any updates, potential legal challenges, or clarifications from the State Department, USCIS, or DHS. If this evolves in ways that could directly affect tourism flows or workforce programs, we will promptly inform you and advocate as needed on behalf of Greater Miami’s tourism and hospitality sector.

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