MONROVIA, LIBERIA-Liberia’s Foreign Ministry has responded in a release clarifying that the U.S Government’s pause applies only to immigrant visas.

The Ministry maintains that tourist, business, student, exchange, and other temporary visas continue to be processed, while existing valid visas remain valid.

The release says the pause affects only visas that lead to permanent residence (green card) in the United States, including family-based, employment-based, Diversity Visa, and other immigrant groupings.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it is engaging U.S. authorities to seek clarification on the scope and duration of the pause and to advocate for fair consideration of Liberian applicants.

The Ministry is, meanwhile, encouraging the public to rely only on official updates on this subject.

Recently, the Government of the United States has announced an indefinite pause in the processing of certain immigrant visas for nationals of seventy-five countries, including Liberia.

The US said the measure is scheduled to take effect on January 21, 2026, and is part of a review of U.S. visa screening and vetting procedures under the “public charge” rule.

By: Naketa Roberts