Updated | Jamaicans affected by US immigrant visa pause encouraged to seek information using their 'usual channels'

Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith is advising Jamaicans who will be affected by plans by the United States to suspend the processing of immigrant visas to use their "usual channels" for seeking updates.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Johnson Smith said detailed information on the policy change is not yet available.

However, she is encouraging persons to use the appropriate channels to obtain information.

“While detailed information is not available, I am advised that the US Embassy will provide such further clarity as they are able. I encourage persons with individual or family processes under way who have specific questions to use their usual platforms and channels to seek updates.”

She underscored to Jamaicans that the policy shift applies only to persons seeking to live permanently in the US, noting that the change does not affect applications for regular tourist visas, student visas, business visas, or visas that are part of seasonal work programmes (farm work and hospitality).

In making the announcement, the US Department of State indicated that the suspension, which will start on January 21, applies to citizens of 75 countries, including Jamaica, whose nationals are deemed likely to require public assistance while living in the US.

The US State Department, led by Secretary Marco Rubio, said on Wednesday that it had instructed consular officers to halt immigrant visa applications from the affected countries, in accordance with a broader order issued in November that tightened rules around potential immigrants who might become “public charges” in the US.

“The Trump administration is bringing an end to the abuse of America’s immigration system by those who would extract wealth from the American people,” the department said in a statement.

“Immigrant visa processing from these 75 countries will be paused while the State Department reassesses immigration processing procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who would take welfare and public benefits.”

Editor's Note: A previous version of this story incorrectly said the the minister was encouraging persons to reach out to the United States embassy for information. After the minister stated in a social media post that the embassy will provide clarity, she encouraged persons with specific questions to use their "usual platforms and channels to seek updates".

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