Visa Policy Freeze Sparks Legal Clash Against State Department

Civil rights organizations have sued the State Department over its new policy pausing visa processing for citizens from 75 countries. The lawsuit challenges the policy, claiming it unfairly blocks immigrants and separates families. The Department argues the policy prevents fraud and abuse, prioritizing American citizens.

Civil rights organizations filed a lawsuit against the State Department on Monday, challenging the recent pause in processing immigrant visas for citizens of 75 countries. The policy, enacted on January 21, is accused of undermining decades of immigration law, causing family separations.

The lawsuit, launched in federal court in Manhattan, asserts the visa policy is based on incorrect allegations that nationals from these countries will rely on U.S. welfare, branding them potential 'public charges.' State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott defended the move as necessary to prevent waste and fraud.

The controversial policy has stopped visa applications from countries across Latin America, the Balkans, South Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. A State Department cable revealed a thorough review of visa procedures, emphasizing high-level screening amid upcoming global events in the U.S.

(With inputs from agencies.)