U.S. judge annuls Trump's visa suspension for 75 countries

A U.S. federal judge has struck down a visa suspension that blocked permanent resident applications from 75 countries, dealing another blow to Donald Trump's immigration agenda. U.S. District Judge Jeannette Vargas in New York ruled the policy unlawful and exceeding the authority of the Secretary of State.

The suspension, in effect since January 21, halted immigrant visa processing for citizens of numerous nations, including Brazil, Somalia, Russia, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Nigeria, Thailand, and Yemen. The State Department had justified the ban by citing a high risk that immigrants from these countries would rely on public assistance or become a burden on public finances.

However, Vargas determined that consular officers were improperly ordered to deny visas based solely on an applicant's country of origin, even if they met all other requirements. The ruling invalidates any visa denials made under this policy, though the government retains the option to appeal.

Since returning to power, Trump has prioritized combating illegal immigration and significantly restricted legal entry. Several of his signature policies have faced judicial challenges, including a $100,000 fee for work visas and a decree to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants, which was later overturned by the Supreme Court.